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Hole in the Rock
4.7 ★★★★★ 7,273 Google reviews · Running trail in Phoenix, Arizona · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- 0.3 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Hole in the Rock's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Landmark rock formation with multiple cavelike holes in the sandstone created by erosion.
What runners say about Hole in the Rock
“It is a small hike from the parking lot to the Hole, making it very beginner friendly and perfect if you want beautiful views without a long or difficult trek.”
“The trail is short and easy to follow, so it is great for beginners or anyone looking for a quick and scenic hike.”
“There's a lovely fishing lake at the bottom, very peaceful.”
“It is a small hike from the parking lot to the Hole, making it very beginner friendly and perfect if you want beautiful views without a long or difficult trek.”
Hole in the Rock at Papago Park is one of the best easy outdoor spots in Phoenix and a place I would recommend to anyone visiting the area. It is a small hike from the parking lot to the Hole, making it very beginner friendly and perfect if you want beautiful views without a long or difficult trek.
Beautiful park for hiking walking biking. You can feel the peaceful calm energy and frequency. The Hole in the rock is pretty big. Good for families friends, especially to hang out on a first date. I'm sure it's breathtaking at night however this place closes its gate at 7pm.
What a fantastic way to kick off our Phoenix adventure! As our very first stop on the trip, this quick and easy 0.3-mile out-and-back trail in Papago Park was the perfect low-key intro to the city’s desert vibes.
First time coming here to watch the sunrise. Easy hike and the views are amazing! Parking is easy and bathroom very clean! Highly recommend this short hike/trail.
Trail conditions & character
“It is a small hike from the parking lot to the Hole, making it very beginner friendly and perfect if you want beautiful views without a long or difficult trek.”
“It is a small hike from the parking lot to the Hole, making it very beginner friendly and perfect if you want beautiful views without a long or difficult trek.”
“The walk to the Hole In The Rock was easy and the actual climb was easy.”
“The colors of the sky against the red rocks are absolutely amazing, especially during sunrise and sunset when everything lights up with warm desert colors.”
Plan your run at Hole in the Rock
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- Distance0.3 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- LightingRunners report lights on the path — useful for pre-dawn and after-work miles. Lighting and opening hours are separate things, so check both.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitephoenix.gov
- Phone(602) 495-5458
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 5 AM–7 PM |
| Tuesday | 5 AM–7 PM |
| Wednesday | 5 AM–7 PM |
| Thursday | 5 AM–7 PM |
| Friday | 5 AM–7 PM |
| Saturday | 5 AM–7 PM |
| Sunday | 5 AM–7 PM |
Running trails near Phoenix
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Papago Park
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LoPiano Bosque Habitat
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