Papago Park (Phoenix)
🌵 The Complete Guide to Phoenix’s Iconic Desert Oasis – Updated 2025
More Than Just a City Park
Located just minutes from downtown Phoenix and Tempe, Papago Park is an iconic desert landscape characterized by its massive, red sandstone buttes. While technically a municipal park shared by two cities, its scale (1,500 acres) and historical significance rival many state parks. It is home to the stunning Desert Botanical Garden, the Phoenix Zoo, and the legendary Hole-in-the-Rock.
Papago Park is a place of deep history. From the ancient Hohokam people who used its rock formations as a solar calendar, to its time as a World War II POW camp (site of the “Great Papago Escape”), this land tells the story of Arizona.
Hole-in-the-Rock
The crown jewel of the park is this massive natural geological formation.
- The Hike: A short, easy 0.3-mile trail leads to the main chamber. It involves some steps and uneven rock but is accessible for most families.
- Scenic Views: The “hole” frames a perfect view of the Phoenix skyline and is widely considered the best suicide-sunset spot in the city.
- History: The Hohokam used openings in the rock to track the position of the sun, marking Solstices and Equinoxes.
- Crowds: It gets very busy at sunset. Arrive early to get a spot inside the chamber.
Governor Hunt’s Tomb
perched on a high hill overlooking the park stands a stark white pyramid. This is the tomb of George W.P. Hunt, Arizona’s first governor. Visitors can walk up to the tomb for panoramic views of the zoo and the Papago Buttes. It is a stunning, if unexpected, piece of Egyptian Revival architecture in the middle of the desert.
Trails & Recreation
Beyond the main attractions, the park offers miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking.
Popular Trails
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Double Butte Loop | 2.3 miles | Easy/Mod | Loops around the large buttes. Less crowded than Hole-in-the-Rock. great for biking. |
| Elliot Ramada Loop | 2.7 miles | Easy | A flat, paved/gravel path perfect for walking dogs or jogging. |
| Crosscut Canal Path | Varies | Easy | Paved multi-use path following the water canal. |
World War II History: The Great Escape
During WWII, Papago Park housed a prisoner-of-war camp for German naval officers (U-boat crews). In December 1944, 25 prisoners escaped by digging a 178-foot tunnel. It was the largest Axis POW escape on American soil. All were eventually recaptured, but the legend of their audacity lives on.
Planning Your Visit
Facilities
- Parking: Free parking lots are available at Hole-in-the-Rock, the West Park drive, and near the Zoo.
- Hours: generally 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Gates close at sunset for some parking areas).
- Fees:
- Papago Park Trails: Free
- Governor Hunt’s Tomb: Free
- Phoenix Zoo / Botanical Garden: Entry Fee Required
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it free to visit?
Yes, hiking the trails, visiting Hole-in-the-Rock, and seeing Hunt’s Tomb are free. The Zoo and Garden charge admission.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs are welcome on leashes on all trails.
Can I fish in the lagoons?
Yes, there are several fishing lagoons stocked with trout (winter) and catfish (summer). An Arizona Urban Fishing License is required.
Is it a difficult hike?
Most trails in Papago are flat and easy, with little elevation gain other than the short climb to Hole-in-the-Rock. It is a very beginner-friendly desert park.
How much does it cost to visit Arizona state parks?
Day-use fees range from $7-$30 per vehicle depending on the park. An annual pass costs $75. Popular parks like Slide Rock have higher admission during summer due to demand.
What are the best state parks in Arizona?
Top parks include Slide Rock (natural water slide), Dead Horse Ranch (Verde River), Kartchner Caverns (living cave), Catalina (Tucson mountains), and Fool Hollow (White Mountains lake).
Do I need reservations for Kartchner Caverns?
Yes, cave tour reservations at Kartchner Caverns State Park are strongly recommended and often sell out weeks in advance. Two tour options are available, with the Big Room Tour being the most popular.
What is the best time to visit Arizona state parks?
October through April is ideal for desert and southern parks. Summer is extremely hot (110°F+) at lower elevations. High-elevation parks like Fool Hollow are excellent summer escapes. Slide Rock peaks in summer for swimming.
Explore More Arizona State Parks
Papago Park (Phoenix) is one of many outstanding state parks in Arizona. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Arizona guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Papago Park — features the Hole-in-the-Rock formation — a natural geological opening used by the Hohokam as a solar calendar. The park’s red sandstone buttes, desert, and lagoons support coyotes, javelinas, and great horned owls.
Nearby Attractions
Phoenix — at the park. Desert Botanical Garden — in the park. Phoenix Zoo — in the park.
