It’s one of the most photographed spots in Phoenix and takes less than 10 minutes to reach the top. But is Hole in the Rock worth adding to your itinerary?
This guide covers exactly what to expect on the trail, the best times to visit, where to park, and how to avoid the worst of the crowds. We’ll also show you what the view actually looks like when you get there, so you can decide for yourself if it’s worth the stop.
In this guide:
Trail Snapshot
| Trail Name | Hole in the Rock |
| Trail description | Out and Back (can loop) |
| Distance | ~0.3 miles |
| Time Needed | 15 – 45 minutes |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Best Time | Sunrise or Sunset (avoid midday) |
| Cost | Free |
| Location | 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008 |
| Rating | 3.0 Mooses |
Interactive Trail Map
What to Expect
The trail starts to the right of the sandstone formation and loops behind it. Expect some light scrambling and a short staircase carved into the rock as you make your way to the main viewing area inside the rock.
From the top, you’ll get wide-open views of the Phoenix valley, distant mountains, palm-lined ponds, and the city skyline.
The experience can be underwhelming when the area is crowded, which it often is. Expect to share the view and maybe wait for photo opportunities.
When to Go
- Sunset: Best for color and atmosphere, but busiest.
- Sunrise: Quieter with soft light and cooler temps.
- Midday: Avoid in summer—no shade and extreme heat.
- Weekdays: Better than weekends.
- Holiday weeks: Extra busy, especially at golden hour.
Is It Worth It?
We give Hole in the Rock 3 out of 5 Mooses.
It’s easy, free, and the views are solid—especially if you catch golden hour. But it’s also crowded, not very challenging, and the viewing area can feel cramped when it’s full.
Verdict:
If you’re already visiting Papago Park, the Phoenix Zoo, or just want a quick viewpoint before dinner, it’s worth a stop. Just time it right and don’t expect solitude.
Practical Info
Papago Park Hours:
- Gates: 5 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Official park closing: 11 p.m.
What to Bring:
- Closed-toe shoes (rocky trail)
- Water & snacks (no water at trailhead)
- The 10 Essentials (standard hiking gear)
Trailhead Amenities:
- Parking lot
- Trail signage
- Picnic tables
- Restrooms nearby
- Close to Phoenix Zoo
Recent Trail Reviews and Weather
- Check Alltrails for recent trail conditions.
- Check the National Weather Service for temperature forecasts.
Trip Recap: Our Visit to Hole in the Rock
First Impressions
We arrived at 4:45 p.m. and stayed through sunset. While the views were good, the crowds didn’t thin much—even after the sun dipped. Strangely, the best lighting came after the official sunset, when the rocks began to glow and the moon rose behind the formation.
Pro Tip: If you’re hoping for fewer people, skip golden hour entirely. Aim for a sunrise hike or try waiting 10–15 minutes after sunset for the best lighting with slightly calmer vibes. Just bring a flashlight for the way down.
From the parking area, Hole in the Rock already steals the scene. A dramatic sandstone outcrop with a natural eye carved through its side, the formation rises ahead. The trail is a short, sloping climb dotted with photographers, hikers, and crowds clustered at the iconic opening.
The Trail Itself
We started to the right side of the formation and made our way behind it.
It’s a short walk, but the surface is rocky. We recommend wearing trail shoes or boots. A sign about active bees greeted us early on, but we didn’t encounter any.
From the main trail, we caught a clear view of Hunt’s Tomb perched across the way, a gleaming white pyramid overlooking the desert. If you have time, it’s worth the short detour for panoramic views and a quiet moment above the bustle.
Stone stairs lead to the final viewing area. The rock had some grip, but we didn’t feel safe climbing higher like some others did.
This is the shot everyone comes for. If you’re lucky enough to find a quiet moment, it frames the city in a dramatic way. Most people stayed long enough to get their photo and move on, but some settled in for the sunset.
Once inside the “hole,” we had a hazy but scenic view of the city, a small pond, and rows of palm trees.
Crowds and the View
The space inside the hole was packed. People were sitting on the ledge, taking selfies, and blocking the best angles.
We waited a few minutes and finally caught a break—the rocks lit up as the sun dipped toward the horizon.
From the upper ledge, the view stretches across the city. What looks like an ordinary scene turns serene in the soft light.
Post-Hike Moments
After heading down, we walked to a nearby pond and watched the last light disappear. We weren’t expecting much from the pond, but it surprised us.
The reflections were so clean they almost looked fake. It was a quiet contrast to the crowded rock above and worth the few extra steps.
A full moon rose just after sunset, casting a glow over the sandstone. We grabbed a few more shots of the rock as the last visitors climbed down.
It wasn’t a quiet hike, but it was still beautiful in its own way.
Final Reflections
- Great for a short, accessible hike with a view.
- Crowds can be frustrating.
- Worth it if you’re in the area, especially for sunset.
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