Located between Tempe and Scottsdale is an underrated natural wonder most Arizonans either overlook entirely or quite simply don’t know it even exists. But it’s spectacular — and weird — and a natural wonder you’ll want to see the next time you’re nearby. Or, better yet, why not schedule a day trip to check out Hole In The Rock, one of the most unique natural wonders in AZ, ASAP?

Perhaps one of the reasons it's overlooked is related to its location.
TripAdvisor/jjctraveler
It's in Phoenix's Papago Park and completely surrounded by other more publicized attractions, like the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Garden.
Melissa Mahoney/OnlyInYourState
But the park contains an oddly shaped sandstone butte that is simply called "Hole in the Rock."
TripAdvisor/Sharlene E
Nope. No fancy names, no marketing... just one of the most loved Phoenix landmarks that all locals feel compelled to take each and every out-of-town visitor to experience.
It's good for at least a couple of hours of climbing, scrambling, exploring, and yes... posing for photos.
TripAdvisor/Cassandra111111
In fact, it's become quite an Instagrammable location in town. I even took a ton of photos for my social media accounts when I came here with my family!
The distinctive red sandstone formation is thought to be in the neighborhood of 6-15 million years old.
Melissa Mahoney/OnlyInYourState

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The holes in the huge formation were eroded over time to form large cavernous openings.
TripAdvisor/Cassandra111111
Some of the openings pass all the way through the rock, making a tunnel of sorts to pass through as you explore the colossal landmark. My family and I were blown away by the rock formations here.
Melissa Mahoney/OnlyInYourState
Getting up there isn't as difficult as it may seem. Speaking from experience, it's quite a short and easy hike. There is a forged walkway that begins with makeshift stairs. Those eventually give way to just rocks you have to navigate over.
TripAdvisor/photobratboy
Then, eventually, you're just climbing all over the raw rock edges inside the holes and around the outside of the big formation. (Please wear appropriate shoes.)
Melissa Mahoney/OnlyInYourState
Time your trip right and you'll be sharing a sunset (or sunrise, depending on the time of day and which side of the hole you're peering out of) with a whole new set of friends with whom you now have this fun adventure in common.
TripAdvisor/Sicarrie
There's no other place quite like Hole In The Rock, a remarkable AZ natural wonder!
Melissa Mahoney/OnlyInYourState


Interested in visiting another Arizona natural wonder? Take a look at this video of Coal Mine Canyon by @OnlyInYourState:

The Hole in the Rock trail is considered easy and measures approximately two-tenths of a mile, with an elevation change of 200 feet. From the Parkway, turn into Papago Park and navigate to the left of the Phoenix Zoo. The parking area for the Hole in the Rock is straight ahead. From the parking area, follow the trail to the right of the rock; it winds around to the backside where you’ll find the stairs that rise to the back face of the rock formation.

Hole in the Rock is located at 625 N Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix, AZ 85008 (follow additional directions above). It’s open to the public from 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Hours may vary on holidays. Learn more about Papago Park on the Phoenix.gov website. 

Looking to go hiking at Papago Park or anywhere else in Arizona? Make sure you have appropriate footwear for our rocky trails. Check out the selection of hiking boots from REI.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Natural Wonders In Arizona

Melissa M. | January 26, 2024

What are some other natural wonders in Arizona?

Arizona is a chockful of natural wonders. You can explore the state for a lifetime and probably not see them all. Here are a few must-visit natural wonders:

  • Sycamore Canyon is an underrated canyon. While not nearly as popular as the Grand Canyon, you won’t find the crowds here. It’s as gorgeous as it is peaceful!
  • Oak Creek Visita in Oak Creek Canyon on 89A between Flagstaff and Sedona offers some of the best views in the state.
  • White Pocket in Marble Canyon is a series of fascinating rock formations. A permit must be acquired to access.
  • Chiricahua National Monument is another part of the state with utterly mesmerizing rock formations.
  • The red rocks of Sedona. People come from all over the world to visit these along with the Grand Canyon a couple hours away.

Check out more of the most incredible natural wonders in Arizona for your next outdoor adventures.

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Hole in the Rock, 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, USA