Papago Park

Papago Park is a 1,500-acre municipal park located in Phoenix and Tempe, Arizona. Known for its distinctive red sandstone buttes and desert landscapes, the park offers a blend of natural beauty and recreational facilities just minutes from downtown Phoenix.

The park's geology dates back 6-15 million years, featuring unique formations like the iconic Hole-in-the-Rock, a natural geologic structure with openings eroded over time. These formations are believed to have been used by the ancient Hohokam people to track solstices.

Papago Park has a rich history, having served various purposes over the years. It was originally designated as an Indian reservation in 1879, later becoming a national monument in 1914. During World War II, it housed a German prisoner-of-war camp. In 1959, the park was officially sold to the city of Phoenix.

The park offers a variety of hiking and biking trails suitable for different skill levels. Most trails are relatively smooth with little elevation gain, making them accessible for walking, hiking, mountain biking, and trail running. Popular trails include the Double Butte Loop (2.3 miles) and the short but scenic Hole-in-the-Rock Trail.

In addition to its natural features, Papago Park is home to several major attractions. These include the Desert Botanical Garden, showcasing a vast variety of desert plants, and the Phoenix Zoo. The park also contains Hunt's Tomb, a white pyramid serving as the burial place of Arizona's first governor, George W.P. Hunt.

For sports enthusiasts, the park offers various facilities including the Papago Golf Course, home to Arizona State University's golf team. Fishing is available at seven acres of stocked lagoons within the park.

Papago Park's convenient location, diverse attractions, and natural beauty make it a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking outdoor recreation and cultural experiences in the Phoenix metropolitan area.