Phoenix, Arizona is well known for its outstanding hotel resorts, with elaborate pools and desert gardens, Southwest-infused fine dining, luxurious spas and championship golf courses. But people don’t speak much of the fun one can experience outside of these places, especially to someone who’s new. Especially if you’re just passing through and looking for a great experience close to the airport or just downtown, there’s a great place you can get to. And it’s Papago Park.
Located at 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, the park comprises primarily sandstone with a range known for its massive buttes that rise and fall throughout the park. It’s also a popular place for running and mountain biking due to the smooth footing and low elevation gain. The Park has been a huge part of Phoenix’ history and
Interestingly, the Park houses two of the region's most popular attractions; the Phoenix zoo and the Desert Botanical Garden as well as golf courses, various museums, baseball fields, lakes, and Sonoran Desert plants and animals.
Hiking Trails
Papaya park has a number of trails that can be very fun if you know the right ones to take. If you’d like to have a full experience of the trails on the west side of the park, you should try the Double Butte loop that’s just 2.3 miles. There’s a bike rack, drinking fountain and picnic ramada on Papago Park Drive.
The Hole-in-the-Rock is the park’s popular scenic viewpoint. It features a main chamber that looks out over the lagoons nearby and the downtown skyline that’s far off. The Chambers trail consists of steps that rise about 200 feet in about a tenth of a mile. The sunset view of this eastern area of the park is definitely breathtaking.
Desert Botanical Garden
Located at 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, the Desert Botanical garden is a 50-acre that houses a wide variety of arid plants. The 4,482 living organisms range across species of cactus, trees and flowers from all around the world. From delicate blooms to towering saguaros. It’s one of only 24 Gardens Accredited by the AAM in the US. It protects 485 endangered species. The beautiful scenery is often a backdrop for the events held and the garden features art installations intertwined with the flora each year.
The Phoenix zoo
Home to over 1,400 animals, the Phoenix zoo is one of the largest non-profit zoos and is a very attractive recreation spot. A trip to the zoo gives you a personal encounter with the giraffes, Sumatran tigers and a chance to discover the elements of the Sonoran Desert set on the Arizona Trail in the zoo.
The Papago golf course is set at the base of Papago’s buttes and provides a scenic view of the town.
Have you been to Papago park before? What would you say is the highlight in the park? Share in the comments below so we can watch out for other amazing places in the park.
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