Great for all skill levels and groups.
Skill Level
There are many different trails for wherever you and/or your group are at. There are paved pathways without steep inclines, and there are paths that go up hills and are rocky. Biking is also allowed if you would like to do that. Overall, this is a good place for families of any skill level.
Another good place for runners, along with causal walkers, is a 5k (3.1 miles) Papago Park Fitness Trail. Team G.O.T. had the chance to discover the fitness option while out for a virtual walk event. Checking out the city park map, it should be a great option for completing this type of activity in cooler weather. For planning purposes, keep in mind that there are water fountains along this trail but you'll need to go elsewhere for a restroom.
As far as hikes go, getting to this next place doesn't take much time from the bottom trail called Hole In The Wall. In the photo below you'll notice all the people hanging out at Hole-In-The-Rock. As a hiker it's not unusual to see the place a bit crowded. People like to wait to take photos around the hole. We can't argue the popularity as it really does make for interesting photographs and some fun exploration.
Scenery
The park is a great place to get a feel for what the Phoenix desert has to offer in terms of trail options. Choose from trails tucked between the rocks, as well as sidewalk paths with vegetation. We had time to sample multiple trails over a couple of hours.
This environment makes for a good place to find lizards, geckos, and squirrels. There are wild flowers and other small plants around. With the help of ponds, different types of birds are common occurrences to see here.
What if history is your thing or you're wanting to explore another type of space? While at the park, there's a tomb out in the distance you may notice. It's called Governor Hunt Tomb. It's something unique to discover. Going up this trail will also reward you with a view of the lower Papago Park ponds.
Further Reading
If you are interested in exploring the park, here are two official sites to help you with any further questions you may have.
Being at Papago Park puts you by The Phoenix Zoo and very close to Desert Botanical Garden. A favorite of Team G.O.T. is the Desert Botanical Garden's seasonal butterfly exhibit. This experience gives you the chance to view caterpillar homes, walk amongst butterflies and see their preferred flowers. There are also art exhibits throughout the year, giving us reasons to keep coming back to the gardens. Special community admission-free days may also be found under tickets at their website.
These are unique sites tucked away in one larger spot. Walk dirt trails to see the area's well known rock formations, cruise on paved areas by the canal, visit with the animals, or stroll through desert gardens. It's all right here.
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