Papago Park is the pocket of red sandstone buttes where Phoenix, Tempe, and Scottsdale meet — instantly recognizable from the wind-carved holes in the rock. It’s one of the easiest bits of desert to enjoy in the whole Valley, and it packs a lot into a small footprint.
What to do
- Hole-in-the-Rock — a short, mostly-easy scramble up to a natural rock opening that frames the city. It’s the park’s signature spot and a favorite for sunset.
- Hiking & mountain biking — miles of flat-to-moderate trails wind between the buttes.
- Fishing lagoons — stocked urban ponds, good for a low-key afternoon.
- Hunt’s Tomb — a small white pyramid on a hill, with one of the better free views in town.
Papago also surrounds the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Garden, so it’s easy to build a full day here.
Go early, bring water
Like everywhere in the desert, the smart move is a sunrise or sunset visit — the light on the red rock is best then, and you skip the midday heat. Bring more water than you think you need.
After the park
Papago is about 25 minutes south of our North Phoenix salon. It’s a favorite for engagement and family photos among that red rock — if you’ve got a shoot planned, book your hair for the morning of, and swing back up our way for a fresh style first.