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Papago Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 12,935 Google reviews · Running trail in Phoenix, Arizona · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Papago Park'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.
Expansive hiking & picnicking area that includes the Phoenix Zoo & famed Hole-in-the-Rock formation.
What runners say about Papago Park
“The grounds are clean and well maintained.”
“I tried both morning and evening hikes, and while the evening had beautiful views, it was much busier with engagements, kids, and general crowds.”
“If you’re into taking photos, I highly recommend going early in the morning—it’s peaceful and the lighting is perfect.”
“I took a few easy trails and enjoyed the views without feeling too rushed or crowded.”
Fun, easy hike with huge payoff. Papago Park is one of those spots where you barely break a sweat but end up with photos that look like you climbed a mountain. The trails are short and super manageable, and the views from Hole-in-the-Rock are awesome — especially around sunset when the whole place lights up red and…
A must-visit spot while you’re in town! I often travel solo for work and always look for places that are both fun and feel safe—this hike checks both boxes. It’s less than a mile, and once you park, it’s easy to find your way up by walking around the rock.
My husband and I visited Papago Park and enjoyed a peaceful walk while taking in the beautiful scenery. The landscape is lovely and very scenic, making it a nice spot to get some fresh air and enjoy nature.
This was much needed stop and reflect location. Being out with nature when it was not too hot or cold. Such beautiful views and area. I loved that there were bikers and walkers on the same trails.
Trail conditions & character
“The trails are short and super manageable, and the views from Hole-in-the-Rock are awesome — especially around sunset when the whole place lights up red and gold.”
“Facilities like restrooms and free parking are available at the base, making the visit convenient.”
“The famous hole in the rock formation overlooks the park, however it was slightly crowded when I went so I chose not to climb it.”
“If you’re into taking photos, I highly recommend going early in the morning—it’s peaceful and the lighting is perfect.”
“From hole in the rock and double butte loop papago park offers an oasis of desert recreation.”
“Facilities like restrooms and free parking are available at the base, making the visit convenient.”
“There are picnic areas, water fountains, and restrooms as well.”
“Hole in the rock is highly accessible via short hike from the nearby parking lot.”
Plan your run at Papago Park
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — 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–11 PM |
| Tuesday | 5 AM–11 PM |
| Wednesday | 5 AM–11 PM |
| Thursday | 5 AM–11 PM |
| Friday | 5 AM–11 PM |
| Saturday | 5 AM–11 PM |
| Sunday | 5 AM–11 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.
Hole in the Rock
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