Discover the Natural Wonders of Papago Park
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Papago Park in Phoenix, Arizona – a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and wildlife.
Papago Park is a remarkable urban park situated in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, and is celebrated for its stunning red sandstone formations and picturesque hiking trails. The park is an ideal destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its unique geological features, including the iconic Hole-in-the-Rock formation, Papago Park offers breathtaking views and numerous opportunities for exploration and photography. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a great spot for wildlife observation. Visitors can often spot various bird species, rabbits, and other native animals. For those seeking adventure, the park features over 20 miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. The trails cater to all skill levels, from casual walkers to seasoned hikers, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beauty of the park. Additionally, Papago Park offers picnic areas, fishing lagoons, and playgrounds, making it a family-friendly destination. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Desert Botanical Garden, which showcases the beauty of desert plants and offers educational programs. With its combination of natural beauty, recreational activities, and proximity to city attractions, Papago Park is a must-visit location for anyone traveling to Phoenix.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy stunning sunrise or sunset views.
- Bring plenty of water and wear sunscreen, as there is limited shade on many trails.
- Check out the Hole-in-the-Rock for a unique photo opportunity and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- Consider bringing binoculars for birdwatching; the park is home to a variety of bird species.
- Take advantage of the picnic areas for a relaxing lunch amidst the scenic backdrop.
A brief summary to Papago Park
- 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, Arizona, 85008, US
- +1602-495-5458
- Visit website
- 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
Getting There
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Public Bus
From anywhere in Gilbert, find the nearest Valley Metro bus stop. You can use the Valley Metro app or website to check schedules. Board any bus heading towards Phoenix and take the bus to the 'Gilbert Rd & Main St' stop. From there, transfer to Route 72 heading towards 'Phoenix'. Get off at 'McDowell Rd & 24th St'. From that stop, it's a short walk to Papago Park. Head north on 24th St, then turn right onto McDowell Rd. Continue on McDowell Rd until you reach Galvin Pkwy, where you will see the entrance to Papago Park.
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Bicycle
If you're comfortable riding a bike, you can rent one from a local bike-sharing service. Begin your journey by biking west on E Baseline Rd. Continue on Baseline Rd until you reach the intersection with N Greenfield Rd. Turn right and follow N Greenfield Rd north until it intersects with E McDowell Rd. Turn left onto McDowell Rd and continue until you reach Galvin Parkway. Papago Park will be on your left.
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Walking
If you're close to downtown Gilbert, you can enjoy a scenic walk. Start at the Gilbert Town Square and head north on N Gilbert Rd. Follow Gilbert Rd as it turns into E McDowell Rd. Continue walking until you reach Galvin Pkwy. Turn left onto Galvin Pkwy, and you will arrive at Papago Park in approximately 30 minutes.
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Ride-share (Uber/Lyft)
For a more direct route, you can use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Open the app and input 'Papago Park' as your destination. Confirm your pickup location in Gilbert, and your driver will take you directly to 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008. The ride will take approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
Attractions Nearby to Papago Park
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Phoenix Zoo
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Hole in the Rock
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Hall of Flame Fire Museum
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Desert Botanical Garden
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Eisendrath House
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Arizona Heritage Center
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Tovrea Castle at Carraro Heights
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Tempe Town Lake Pedestrian Bridge
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Papago Park in Tempe
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Tempe Town Lake
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North Linear Park
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LoPiano Bosque Habitat
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Tempe Center For The Arts
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Tempe Beach Park
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Rio Salado Park
Landmarks nearby to Papago Park
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Governor Hunt Tomb
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Papago POW Escape Monument
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Blue Star Memorial Tempe Az
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Tempe Tourism Office
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Tempe Butte
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Hackett House
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Harkins Theatres Valley Art
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Tempe City Hall
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Sri Venkata Krishna Kshetra Temple
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S'edav Va'aki Museum (formerly Pueblo Grande Museum)
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ASU Art Museum Ceramics Research Center
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Eldorado Park
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Birchett House
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Arizona Distilling Co.
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Desert Financial Arena