Hole in the Rock, Mesa Travel Guide

4.7 (5821)

Hike to a prehistoric landmark in Phoenix's Papago Park for stunning views and a peek into the past. A must-see Arizona sunset spot!

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Hole in the Rock

Hole in the Rock, a unique geological formation in Phoenix's Papago Park, offers stunning views and a glimpse into the past. This red sandstone butte, formed millions of years ago, features large openings eroded over time. The Hohokam people used it as a solar calendar, and today, it's a popular spot for hikers and sunset watchers.

A brief summary to Hole in the Rock

625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, Camelback East Village, Arizona, 85008, US
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Monday 5 am-7 pm
Tuesday 5 am-7 pm
Wednesday 5 am-7 pm
Thursday 5 am-7 pm
Friday 5 am-7 pm
Saturday 5 am-7 pm
Sunday 5 am-7 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hole in the Rock.

Visit during the cooler months (fall, winter, and spring) or early morning/late afternoon in the summer to avoid the desert heat.
Wear sturdy shoes with good grip as the trail is rocky and uneven.
Bring water and sunscreen, even on cooler days.
Bring a flashlight if you plan to stay for sunset, as the trail can be dark on the way down.
Be mindful of other visitors, as the viewing area can get crowded, especially around sunset.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Arizona Museum of Natural History

Mesa Grande Cultural Park

i.d.e.a. Museum

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Explore Hole in the Rock on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Hole in the Rock, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

The Hole-in-the-Rock trailhead parking lot is located at 625 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008. Parking is free. If the primary lot is full, additional parking is available within easy walking distance in Papago Park and at the Phoenix Zoo.
Public Transport

Take the #3 bus from the Van Buren Street and Central Avenue station to the Phoenix Zoo. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the Hole-in-the-Rock trailhead. A single ride on Valley Metro bus is $2.00.
Ride Share

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off directly at the Hole-in-the-Rock trailhead at Papago Park. From Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) to Hole-in-the-Rock, a ride typically costs between $15-$25, depending on demand and traffic.

Discover more about Hole in the Rock

Hole in the Rock is a must-see attraction in Phoenix's Papago Park. This intriguing geological formation, a red sandstone butte riddled with openings, offers both scenic beauty and historical significance. Formed an estimated 6 to 15 million years ago through erosion, the "hole" provides a natural window to panoramic views of the Phoenix metropolitan area, including the nearby lagoons, downtown skyline, and the Phoenix Zoo.The Hole in the Rock was historically significant to the Hohokam tribe, who inhabited the region centuries ago. They utilized the site as a solar calendar, tracking the sun's movements through the seasons by observing the light and shadows cast through the openings. This allowed them to mark important dates like the solstices and equinoxes, crucial for agriculture and ceremonies.Today, visitors can easily access Hole in the Rock via a short, 0.3-mile hiking trail. The trail includes some steps and a slightly steep section near the top. Once inside the formation, you can explore the openings and enjoy the views. It's a particularly popular spot to watch the sunset. The surrounding Papago Park offers many other activities, including hiking trails, picnic areas, fishing lagoons, the Phoenix Zoo, and the Desert Botanical Garden.