Hole in the Rock Hike in Papago Park, Phoenix

Everything you need to know about hiking Hole in the Rock in Papago Park can be found here! When to go, what to expect, and what you’ll see – we’ll cover it all. Here is all the info on the Hole in the Rock trail in Papago Park, Phoenix.

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Phoenix, Arizona is jam-packed full of epic views, gorgeous hikes, and desert landscapes. It’s a must-see destination for anyone traveling through the American Southwest!

While the city is modern and trendy with a touch of the wild west, nature is where it’s at for me. If you’re looking to see a bit more of Phoenix and experience some desert nature while you’re there, consider hiking the Hole in the Rock trail.

Here is everything you need to know about Hole in the Rock!

Hole in the Rock Trail

The Hole in the Rock hike is located within Papago Park in Phoenix, Arizona. It’s a short, easy hike, making it perfect for the summer months when it’s sweltering. It’s also great for beginners, or those traveling with children.

Papago Park is located in the Tempe community and houses not only this hike, but also the Desert Botanical Garden and the Phoenix Zoo, among other sights. If you only have one day in Phoenix, you are likely to end up in Papago Park for one activity or another.

This hike is perfect for anyone who wants to get a nice panoramic view of the surrounding area. All it requires is the ability to hike an easy dirt incline and the ability to walk up a few rock stairs.

First, the basics:

• Trail Length: 0.5 miles
• Type: Out & Back
• Level: Easy

Papago Park is home to uniquely formed terra-cotta colored sandstone buttes. They are very porous and round, and you will see them all throughout the park – not just for this hike.

The steep round buttes are pockmarked with nooks and crannies, as well as large holes like swiss cheese – which is exactly why this hike is a must-do

At the end of your short trek, you will be standing inside one of these wind-formed holes overlooking the city.

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Hole in the Rock Trail History

Phoenix has a unique history with the indigenous people who used to live here. The early inhabitants of the Phoenix area were known as the Hohokam Tribe. They used this hole in the rock to track the summer and winter solstice, and it has been used between 450 to 1450 CE.

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Hiking Hole in the Rock

The trail begins on the ride side of the rock face, which you will see from the parking lot. This portion of the trail is relatively flat, across dusty red earth. It loops around the back of the rock.

Once you are behind the rock, the trail makes a long U-shape. When it circles back, it leads up a set of man-made stairs, carved from the rock. Watch out, these are fairly slippery after years of use!

The path is well trodden and easy to follow. As you are walking up you may notice another hole in the rock at the very top of this butte – this hole is not visible from the front.

It is through this higher opening that the Hohokam were able to track the solstices, via the sunlight shining down into the main hole.

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As you continue towards the rock, you’ll start to see another opening below – this is the Hole in the Rock. It’s almost like a cave except that both sides are wide open, offering views of either Papago Park’s nature or the city.

To get down into the hole to see the vista point, follow more man-made steps on the right. You’ll have a lot more room inside than you probably expected! And from here, you can sit back and relax or take in the epic views.

Note – this is a great place to visit for sunrise in Phoenix.

What to pack for the Hole in the Rock hike

Remember, even at sunrise, you are hiking in the desert. If you aren’t used to doing so, then check out these must-have items below.

1. The top priority should be proper footwear. Check out my favorite trekking sandals of all time, which have been to six continents with me and are still going strong.
2. If you visit Phoenix in the summer, you should really consider a  CamelBak hydration pack. These are handy year round, depending on how often you hike of course!
3. If you want to get to Hole in the Rock’s lookout before sunrise, bring a headlamp. If you go after first light, you should be okay without it.
4. Pack loose and breathable clothing like sheer kimonos to cover your shoulders and flowy tanks that breathe.
5. Definitely don’t forget a wide brim hat and sunglasses. Eco friendly sunscreen is also a must.

For the full list, check out my post on Desert Hiking Essentials.

In Conclusion…

The Hole in the Rock hike is not the trail to choose if you are looking for a strenuous workout or a log desert trek. It is one of the easier hikes in Phoenix, making it perfect for hot summer days.

Hole in the Rock is the hike to choose if you want panoramic views from a unique location, which you are sure to be impressed by! If you ask me, it’s a must-see.

So tell me – what did you think of this hike? Is it worth the hype? Let me know below!

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