Hole in the Rock
4.7(7.2K)google
HikingGeology
Overview
Hole in the Rock is a striking natural geological formation composed of red sandstone, located within Papago Park. Formed millions of years ago through wind and water erosion, this large opening in the rock face offers an easily accessible hiking trail suitable for all skill levels. A short, uphill path leads adventurers right into the spacious cavernous opening. From this unique rocky vantage point, visitors are rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Phoenix skyline, urban desert parks, and distant mountain ranges. It is immensely popular during sunset, when the fiery desert skies glow beautifully framed through the natural rock opening, providing a classic, highly photogenic Arizona experience.
Practical Info
Mon5:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tue5:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wed5:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Thu5:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Fri5:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sat5:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sun5:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Suggested Duration0.5-1 hour
Best TimeIt's strongly recommended to arrive 30 minutes before sunset. When you sit in the huge red-rock natural cave and look out through nature's natural "rock frame," the sunset glow and city lake before you are breathtakingly beautiful
Getting ThereLocated on the east side of Papago Park, right next to the Phoenix Zoo gate. The site entrance has a huge, completely free public parking lot; getting there by car or taxi is extremely intuitive and convenient
Travel Tips
- This is a huge hollow natural rock cave in Papago Park, naturally formed by millions of years of weathering and erosion of red sandstone; it's recognized as Phoenix's number-one popular sunset photo spot
- The trail to the cave is a gentle dirt road looping around behind the hill; it takes only about 5 to 10 minutes one way to easily reach the top—extremely friendly to visitors of any age
- Because the inside of the cave is an open wind gap, the surface sand is very slippery and there are no safety railings at all, so be sure to stand firmly when sitting at the cave mouth for photos and guard against slipping off the cliff
Reviews
Positive
- A viewpoint with extremely high value for the effort! Just a few minutes' walk gets you to such a peculiar geological feature; sitting in the big cave with the breeze, watching the distant palm trees and sunset, is such an enjoyment
- A perfect photo spot—the rock's natural curve perfectly frames the distant Phoenix skyline. Whether for a couple's date or a family outing with kids, this is a top choice for photos
Heads up
- Its fame is so great that at sunset the cave is densely packed with people; getting a photo without passersby interfering is almost impossible, and the scene is a bit noisy