Papago Park

The Papago Park – Hole in the Rock loop from Veterans Way/College Ave offers a unique urban mountain biking experience, weaving through striking red sandstone buttes and diverse desert vegetation. You'll navigate a mix of smooth dirt and rocky sections, with the route culminating in spectacular views from the iconic Hole-in-the-Rock, overlooking lagoons and the Phoenix skyline. This easy 14.7-mile (23.6 km) ride, with 696 feet (212 metres) of elevation gain, is a great way to explore the desert in about 1 hour and 46 minutes.

This highly accessible park is ideal for a quick ride, especially if you're coming from downtown Phoenix. You'll find ample parking, drinking fountains, and picnic areas, making it easy to plan your visit. The trails are multi-use, shared with hikers and runners, and dogs are welcome on a leash. Consider an early morning start to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer people on the paths.

Beyond the scenic riding, Papago Park holds historical significance, with the Hole-in-the-Rock once used as an ancient calendar by the Hohokam civilization. The park's interconnected trails allow for customized routes, catering to various skill levels from beginners to intermediate riders looking for some technical challenges. It's a true mountain bike playground with something for everyone.

This 9.6-mile (15.5 km) mountain biking loop, starting from Mill Ave/3rd St, offers an easy introduction to desert riding with 575 feet (175 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. You'll transition from urban paths to the unique Sonoran Desert terrain of Papago Park, riding past striking red sandstone buttes and saguaro cacti. The route provides glimpses of the Phoenix skyline and takes you near the iconic Hole in the Rock formation, offering a blend of natural beauty and city views.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the urban starting point makes it highly accessible for a quick outing. While the initial sections are paved, once in Papago Park, expect a mix of easy singletrack and doubletrack, with some loose, sandy spots or embedded rocks adding a touch of intermediate challenge. Always remember to bring ample water, especially if you're riding during the warmer parts of the day or year, as the desert climate can be unforgiving.

Papago Park is notable for its blend of natural desert features and urban convenience, making it a great spot for beginner mountain bikers or those looking for a quick, accessible ride. Beyond the trails, the park is home to landmarks like the Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Garden, and its historical significance adds another layer to your experience. It's a fantastic option for a family-friendly mountain biking adventure close to Tempe.