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Papago Park

Located on East Van Buren Street at North Galvin Parkway in the middle of Phoenix, Papago Park is a popular spot for hikers and mountain bikers. The park has an interesting history. The red rock (iron oxide-hematite) found in the park formed 6 to 15 million years ago. In 1879, the park and adjoining areas were designated as an Indian reservation for the Maricopa and Pima tribes.

The park is home to Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Garden apart from a fire museum and a golf course. Scores of people come here every day for picnics and fishing in the lagoons that beautify the landscape. Hikers can find several trails running through the grounds. Families find it easy to hike here due to the low elevation gain. Rangers can be seen patrolling the park for safety.

Best time to go there is in winter. But if you are there in summers, make sure you get there early to beat the heat. While you are there, see the famous Hole-In-The-Rock, which is a natural geologic formation.

For a sumptuous dinner, head to La Fontanella (602-955-1213), rated as the top Italian restaurant. This place opens at 4:30 p.m. and you can enjoy Tuscan and Sicilian specialties here.

Near Papago, Hilton Phoenix Airport offers a great stay with all sorts of comforts and recreational activities, while Sleep Inn Airport is reasonably priced, offers free breakfast and close to dining, shopping and entertainment venues.

Address:
E Van Buren St.,
Phoenix, AZ 85008-3410

Tel: (602) 256-3220

Hours:
6 a.m. - 11 p.m. Daily

Admission: Free

URL: http://www.ci.phoenix.az.us/PARKS/hikepapa.html