Not just a hole in the rock. 1,500 acres of red sandstone buttes, sunrise trails, desert wildlife, and a history that reaches back a thousand years.
Known for its striking red sandstone buttes and beautiful desert landscapes, Papago Park offers the perfect balance of outdoor adventure and quiet reflection. Whether you're hiking to the famous Hole-in-the-Rock for sweeping city views, fishing at the lagoons, or simply soaking in the golden hour, this is Arizona at its most iconic.
World-class gardens, animal habitats, historic landmarks — all within walking distance of the trailhead.
Arizona's largest privately owned non-profit zoo, home to 3,000+ animals across 125 acres.
Visit Site50,000 desert plants across five thematic trails. A must at sunset.
Visit SiteClassic 18-hole championship course framed by red sandstone buttes.
Visit SiteArizona history from the Hohokam through statehood, in one exhibit hall.
Visit SiteOne of the largest firefighting museums in the world. Kid-favorite.
Visit SiteFrom family-friendly loops to butte scrambles with panoramic city views — there's a route for every pace.
A short 0.3-mile climb to the iconic sandstone window overlooking the valley. The park's most photographed spot.
Wraps two of the park's largest buttes with rolling terrain and sweeping desert vistas. Great sunrise or sunset ride.
A steep scramble to the highest point in the park. Loose rock, real elevation, and a 360° reward at the top.
Everything from post-hike brunch to slow-cooked mesquite dinners. Ask a local — the best patios are the ones without signs.
See Full Guide5K, 10K, and half marathon through Papago Park, finishing at the beer garden.
1,000+ Southwestern butterflies, including monarchs, in the walk-through pavilion at Desert Botanical Garden.
Illuminated evening installations with fall-themed displays at Desert Botanical Garden.
Ten straight days of live music, crafts, and seasonal food at Desert Botanical Garden.
Immersive Halloween-themed evenings at Desert Botanical Garden.
Three-day cultural celebration with altars, music, and food at Desert Botanical Garden.
One of the garden's most popular fall weekends, with a regional vendor showcase at Desert Botanical Garden.
The 58th Fall Festival — a huge outdoor art walk on Mill Ave, about 2 miles from Papago Park.
From the Hohokam people to the Civilian Conservation Corps, Papago Park has been shaped by countless hands.
The Hohokam people, ancestors of the Tohono O'odham and Akimel O'odham, thrived here, building extensive irrigation systems still visible today.
Arizona becomes a U.S. territory. The region's striking features begin attracting settlers.
The land is designated part of the Papago Indian Reservation by President Rutherford B. Hayes.
During World War I, the area served as a German prisoner-of-war camp.
The Civilian Conservation Corps built trails, picnic areas, and stonework that shaped the park we know today.
A cherished urban destination blending recreation with heritage — Hole-in-the-Rock, the Desert Botanical Garden, the Phoenix Zoo, and the enduring stories of the O'odham peoples.
We craft 100% custom camper vans on the Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter, and Ram Promaster platforms. Built for people who'd rather sleep under a butte than under a roof.
Explore Papago Vans →