Papago Park Butte Loop

These days, Papago Park is a recreational and hiking area, a golf course, and an access point for the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Gardens. In years past, it was a reservation, a fish hatchery in the Great Depression, a POW camp, and a VA hospital. It’s not only a historical part of the city, but a beautiful one, with red buttes covered in caves. One of the most popular hikes in this area is the Papago Park Butte Loop, which circles around two different buttes.

This hike is a very easy adventure that anyone of any age can enjoy. The trail is clear, easy to follow, and lined with unique desert plants and cacti. The footing is mostly hard dirt. You’ll be next to the road for part of this hike, so expect a little bit of noise, but it’s still worth it.

This route is suitable for strollers, and wheelchair users can enjoy it with some assistance over mild inclines. You can also customize your distance by making use of the interconnecting trails between the buttes.

While this is an easy, laidback hike, we still suggest that you bring plenty of water with you (there is a fill station at the trailhead), consider sun protection, and hike outside the heat of the day if it’s going to be hot out. There is minimal shade on this trail.

From the trailhead, take the trail to your left. Stay left through several junctions as you hike along the side of the golf course. Cross Elliot Ramada Loop and hike up to E McDowell Road. The Papago Buttes are right next to you here, with their dark red coloring and their caves on full display.

Continue around the north end of the buttes next to the road. You’ll follow the trail as it loops around the butte until you reach the 5K Trail, where you’ll take a left.

Hike back towards the trailhead next to N Galvin Parkway. You’ll stay on the 5K Trail the entire way back to the trailhead.

Should you want to enjoy the area a bit longer, you could take a picnic over to the Elliot Ramada to hang out for a while.

Hiking Route Highlights

Papago Park

Papago Park is one of the premier parks serving Phoenix. Located just minutes from downtown, the park is used for hiking, biking, dog walking, and more. Loved for its unique red rock scenery, the park also provides access to the Desert Botanical Gardens and the Phoenix Zoo. There is also a popular golf course on the west side of the park. On the weekends, it’s full of residents enjoying the desert outdoors on its network of hiking trails.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Papago Park free?

The park is free. There are no fees required to use it.

How much parking is at Papago Park?

There is lots of parking available at Papago Park! You shouldn’t struggle to find a spot.

Is Papago Park manmade?

The park has natural roots, but human intervention has created the trail system and amenities in the park.