Phoenix Bat Cave, Red Rock Country Travel Guide

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Witness thousands of bats emerge from a Phoenix flood tunnel at dusk, a unique urban wildlife spectacle.

The Phoenix Bat Cave, a Maricopa County Flood Control Tunnel, is an unlikely yet captivating attraction where thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats roost every summer. As dusk approaches, witness a mesmerizing exodus as these creatures emerge to paint the Phoenix sky.

A brief summary to Phoenix Bat Cave

3698-3694 E Colter St, Phoenix, Arizona, 85018, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Phoenix Bat Cave.

Arrive 30-45 minutes before sunset for the best viewing experience.
Stay quiet to avoid disturbing the bats.
Visit between June and August when the colony is at its peak.
Stand on the south side of the tunnel for the best view as the bats fly overhead.

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Explore Phoenix Bat Cave on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Phoenix Bat Cave, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the intersection of 40th St and Camelback Rd, walk north on 40th Street. Follow the path on the west side about 200 yards until you reach the flood control channel, located just north of the canal. Head north about 20 feet from the gravel path to a paved path. The paved path leads to the side and top of the tunnel. There is no dedicated parking; find parking nearby and walk to the site. Parking can be found near Chelsea's Kitchen or in surrounding office buildings. Be aware of permit-needed parking signs.
Public Transport

Take the Valley Metro bus or light rail to the 40th St and Camelback Rd area. From there, follow the walking directions to the Phoenix Bat Cave. A single ride on Valley Metro costs $2, but a day pass is $4, which covers all bus and train rides for the day. Download the Valley Metro app for real-time tracking and fare payment.
Taxi/Ride-share

Take a taxi or ride-share service to the intersection of 40th St and Camelback Rd. From there, follow the walking directions to the Phoenix Bat Cave. A short taxi or ride-share trip in the area typically costs between $7 and $15, depending on the distance and demand. Note that prices may surge during peak hours.

Discover more about Phoenix Bat Cave

The Phoenix Bat Cave offers a unique opportunity to witness a natural spectacle in the heart of the city. In reality a flood control tunnel, this spot has become a summer home to thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats since the late 1990s. Every year, from May to October, these bats migrate from the south towards Mexico and roost in the tunnel.As the sun begins to set, the bats emerge from the tunnel in droves, creating a stunning display as they fill the sky in search of insects. The colony typically peaks in size during July and August, when the females give birth, making it the best time to witness this natural phenomenon. Arrive roughly 30-45 minutes before sunset to witness the beginning of the exodus.While waiting, visitors can read informational signs posted by the Arizona Game and Fish Department to learn more about the bats and their behavior. Remember to remain quiet to avoid disturbing the bats and potentially attracting predators. The Phoenix Bat Cave is a hidden gem that offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts of all ages.