Field guide
Papago Park trail information for runners and hikers
Official information for the Papago Park trail system. Find details on the Hole-in-the-Rock Trail, Crosscut Canal Path, hours, and facilities.
Papago Park is a public space in Phoenix known for its massive sandstone buttes. It offers designated areas for hiking and other recreational activities.
This guide provides official details for visitors planning to run or hike. It covers specific trails, park hours, and facility information.
Official facts at a glance
- Description
- Park with exceptional hiking, recreational facilities, and massive sandstone buttes.
- Address
- 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
- Crosscut Canal Path length
- 1.4 miles
- Hole-in-the-Rock Trail length
- 0.2 miles
- Hole-in-the-Rock Trail elevation change
- 200 feet
- Ranger Office Loop Trail surface
- paved
- Crosscut Canal Path difficulty
- Easy
- Park hours (East of Galvin Pkwy)
- 5 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Park hours (West of Galvin Pkwy)
- Sunrise to Sunset
- Trail hours
- 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Parking restrictions
- None
- Restrooms
- Public restrooms available near Papago Park Visitor Center
- Animal restrictions
- None
Source: Papago Park (phoenix.gov). Official page, checked Oct 21, 2026.
Papago Park trail options
The park contains several marked trails for hiking and running. The Hole-in-the-Rock Trail is a short route of 0.2 miles that includes an elevation change of 200 feet.
For a longer, flat route, the Crosscut Canal Path is 1.4 miles and is rated as easy. The Ranger Office Loop Trail provides a paved surface for users.
Hours of operation
The park has different operating hours depending on the specific area. The trails are open for use from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.
The main park areas have more limited hours. The section east of Galvin Parkway is open from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m., while the section west of Galvin Parkway is open from sunrise to sunset.
Access and general rules
The park address is 625 N Galvin Pkwy. There are no official parking restrictions for vehicles.
Public restrooms are located near the Papago Park Visitor Center. According to official information, there are no animal restrictions in the park.
Before you go
- Check the hours for the specific part of the park you plan to visit, as they vary.
- Note that trails are open later than the main park areas, from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Confirm the location of public restrooms near the Visitor Center before you start.
- Choose your trail based on surface type, as some paths like the Ranger Office Loop are paved.
- The Hole-in-the-Rock Trail is short but involves a 200-foot elevation change.
Nearby options: running and active spots in Phoenix. All cities: City running and hiking guides.