Its massive, otherworldly sandstone buttes set Papago Park apart, even in a city and state filled with world-class natural attractions. While visitors to Papago can enjoy its extensive trail network through Sonoran Desert habitat, they can also enjoy the parks two major residents, the
Phoenix Zoo and
Desert Botanical Garden, world-class attractions that draw millions of visits each year. Oh, and did we mention it's only 10 minutes from downtown Phoenix!
Papago’s desert trails are generally smooth, easy treks with little elevation gain, making it a great place for a family hike or to hone your mountain biking skills. For general information: (602) 261-8318.
Recreation Facilities:
Archery Range
(62nd and Oak streets) - Open from dawn to dusk everyday.
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Exercise Course - an all metal station exercise course covering 1.7 miles. Located by the Parks Department Central District - East office.
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Fishing lagoons - cover 7.8 acres, stocked with catfish for summer and trout for winter. An
Arizona urban fishing license is required.
The park also is home to:
Tomb of Governor George Wiley Paul Hunt
Hunt’s tomb is a white pyramid that is visible from almost any point in the park. Entombed here is Governor George Wiley Paul Hunt, who set a national record by being elected to the first, second, third, sixth, seventh, eighth and 10th term as Arizona’s governor. Hunt was born in 1859 and died in 1934. Also entombed here are his wife, Helen, her parents, the J. W. Ellisons, and her sister, Lena Ellison. From the tomb, one can enjoy a wonderful view in all directions, including a view of Hole-in-the-Rock.
Governor George Wiley Paul Hunt's tomb and Hole in the Rock
Ramadas at Papago Park:
Fees are based on whole-day reservations – Reservation times are from: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. PARKING IS FOR ALL PARK USERS AND IS NOT GUARANTEED. PARKING MAY BE LIMITED. Beer is allowed ONLY with a Beer Permit and a ramada reservation. Glass bottles allowed. Amplified music, dunk tanks, pinatas and inflatables are NOT ALLOWED in the park. All other Ramadas and Picnic Areas are available on a first come, first served basis and are FREE. Maximum Capacities for Ramadas and other Picnic Areas will be strictly enforced.
To Make a Ramada Reservation you can go to any City of Phoenix Community Center or Division Office.
Orienteering Map
Orienteering: Papago Park’s orienteering course is located south of the archery range in the Papago Sports Complex on the northwest corner of McDowell and 64th Street. Orienteering is a form of land navigation in which participants use a map and compass to navigate through fields, woods, hills or desert terrain. The new course is geared toward the beginner and has 11 control points. The course is open from sunrise to sunset daily. For more information please call the Papago Park Ranger Office: (602) 261-8318.
