An easy hike at Hole in the Rock in Phoenix, AZ

Hole in the Rock is one of my favorite places to take friends from out of state, and it’s one of the easiest hikes you’ll ever take the kids on. Before you know it, you’ll be from the parking lot up on the mountain and into the hole in the rock. The mountain is made up of massive sandstone buttes.

We’ve taken kids of all ages, from 1-year olds to teenagers, it’s a perfect hike and not that long of a hike. This is an outdoor activity, so more suited for early morning in the summer, or the winter months.

Location

The location is just north of the Phoenix Zoo inside Papago Park in Phoenix. Hole in the Rock in Phoenix is huge and is a natural geological formation. If you’re a resident living in the Phoenix area, you must go here at least once! It only takes 10 minutes to get there from downtown Phoenix.

The path up the mountain is smooth and well maintained. The path wraps around behind the mountain to the entrance to the cave. There are beautiful views of the Phoenix skyline from inside the cave.

Things to do at Hole in the Rock in Phoenix

Papago Park also offers a nature trail and a simple but unique toddler playground. The kids loved the colorful snake outline! You can access both from the first parking lot option, as you start the one-way drive around the park. Or just meander from the main parking lot by Hole in the Rock. Restrooms are also nearby.

In addition, the park offers nature trails that are easy to walk and explore. There are 3 ponds that are stocked with fish which makes for excellent fishing. The ponds encompass about 6 acres. These ponds were a fish hatchery during the Great Depression and were revived in the 1980s.

Getting to Hole in the Rock in Phoenix:
Papago Park
625 North Galvin Parkway
Phoenix, AZ 85008

Parking is free and is located right next to the trailhead. Follow the signs.

Interested in more easy hikes for kids? Check out our articles about Dreamy Draw or Pinnacle Peak!

Or visit 6 Nature Areas to Visit in Phoenix.