Hole in the Rock Tours

Hole in the Rock featuring desert views
Hole in the Rock featuring desert views and landscape views
Hole in the Rock showing mountains and climbing
Hole in the Rock showing desert views and mountains
Hole in the Rock featuring desert views, a pond and a small town or village


Explore a geological phenomenon that has been millions of years in the making. While here, enjoy unbeatable views of Phoenix.

On a small sandstone hill in Papago Park is a distinctive geological formation known as the Hole in the Rock. This intriguing red mound is 6 to 15 million years old. Visit this incredible natural site, learn about its history and enjoy the view.

Notice the number of large holes in the rock. These are natural openings called tafoni and were most likely caused by the erosive action of water. Historians believe that the Hohokam, the prehistoric people of the Sonoran Desert, used the rock formation as a calendar. They are thought to have marked changing seasons by tracking the movement of sunlight on the floor as it passed through the holes.

Hike up to the rock via one of the paths. It only takes a few minutes, but be careful because it is quite steep and the rock underfoot is crumbly in places. One of the easiest routes is via the manmade steps on the eastern side of the hill. Between June and September, it is best to make this trek early in the morning to avoid the summer heat.

Once you are at the top, climb within the main chamber inside the rock where you will easily be able to stand at full height. Take advantage of the elevation to admire views of the park. In the distance, you can see western Phoenix and the mountains that tower above the city.

The Hole in the Rock is located on the east side of Papago Park, close to the main entrance. Just follow the signs. The 1,500-acre (600-hectare) park is approximately 7 miles (11 kilometers) east of downtown Phoenix. There is no public transportation access but on-site car parking is free.

Papago Park is open daily from sunrise to sunset and is free to enter. Explore the rest of the park during your visit. Catch trout in the Fishing Lagoon, make use of the picnic facilities and hike other interesting trails. While you are in Phoenix, enjoy more of its attractions, including the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Garden.

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Best Lodging Options Near Hole in the Rock

Tempe Oasis

Tempe Oasis

2 out of 5
1635 N Scottsdale Rd, Tempe, AZ
Tempe Oasis
Element Scottsdale at SkySong

Element Scottsdale at SkySong

3 out of 5
1345 North Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, AZ
Element Scottsdale at SkySong
Papago Scottsdale by Reside, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

Papago Scottsdale by Reside, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

3 out of 5
7017 East McDowell Road, Scottsdale, AZ
Papago Scottsdale by Reside, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
☆ Heated Pool & Spa! Putting Green! Pool Table! Ping Pong! The Sweet Life ☆

☆ Heated Pool & Spa! Putting Green! Pool Table! Ping Pong! The Sweet Life ☆

Scottsdale
☆ Heated Pool & Spa! Putting Green! Pool Table! Ping Pong! The Sweet Life ☆
Springhill Suites Phoenix Scottsdale Marriott

Springhill Suites Phoenix Scottsdale Marriott

2 out of 5
1500 NORTH SCOTTSDALE ROAD, Scottsdale, AZ
Springhill Suites Phoenix Scottsdale Marriott
Motel 6 Tempe, AZ - Scottsdale South

Motel 6 Tempe, AZ - Scottsdale South

2 out of 5
1612 N Scottsdale Rd, Tempe, AZ
Motel 6 Tempe, AZ - Scottsdale South
SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Tempe University

SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Tempe University

3 out of 5
1429 N Scottsdale Rd, Tempe, AZ
SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Tempe University
Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix Tempe

Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix Tempe

2.5 out of 5
1415 N. Scottsdale Road, Tempe, AZ
Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix Tempe
 Scottsdale Parkview Resort

Scottsdale Parkview Resort

3.5 out of 5
7707 E McDowell Rd, Scottsdale, AZ
Scottsdale Parkview Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Hole in the Rock

When visiting Hole in the Rock in Phoenix, Arizona, you'll find plenty of activities to enjoy, including easy hikes and scenic running paths. Golf enthusiasts can play a round at nearby golf courses, while downtown offers a vibrant riverwalk and various events. Whether you're looking for sports or simply exploring the area, there's something for everyone to enjoy near this iconic landmark.

Food and drinks

For a taste of the Wild West, visit Rawhide Western Town & Steakhouse, just 9 miles from Hole in the Rock, offering a lively family atmosphere. Don't miss Cerreta Candy Factory, 14 miles away, perfect for sweet treats that the whole family will enjoy.

Shopping

For shopping near Hole in the Rock, visit Scottsdale Fashion Square, just 3 miles away, offering a vibrant mix of stores and family entertainment. If you're up for a drive, consider Gilbert Farmers Market, located 11 miles away, known for its local goods and city atmosphere.

Recreation

Chase Field, located 7 miles from Hole in the Rock, offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts. Tempe Beach Park, just 2 miles away, provides a tranquil setting for relaxation and wellness activities. For outdoor sports lovers, Arizona Grand Golf Course, 6 miles away, features beautiful landscapes for a rewarding game of golf.

Adventure

Experience adrenaline at Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park, 13 miles from Hole in the Rock, where thrilling motor racing awaits. For a refreshing adventure, try Salt River Tubing, 15 miles away, offering fun on the water. Alternatively, unleash your competitive spirit at Xtreme Pursuit Paintball, located 12 miles from your destination.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Talking Stick Resort Casino, just 7 miles away, where romance meets city vibes. Catch a show at Celebrity Theater, 4 miles away, blending culture and entertainment. For family fun, head to Golfland Sunsplash, 8 miles away, offering thrilling arcade adventures.

Find the best attractions near Hole in the Rock

Visitors to Hole in the Rock in Phoenix, Arizona, can enjoy a variety of attractions such as urban parks and local colleges. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Camelback Mountain and the scenic Hole in the Rock Trail, while families can appreciate the unique rock formations nearby. For a touch of excitement, consider a trip to Las Vegas, which is just a short drive away, offering vibrant entertainment options.

  • Arizona State University: Just 2 miles from Hole in the Rock, this vibrant university offers a modern campus atmosphere with engaging student life, art installations, and beautiful architecture. Explore the energetic vibe that comes with being part of a dynamic academic community.
  • Phoenix Convention Center: Located 7 miles away, this expansive venue hosts a variety of events and conferences, making it a hub for business and networking. Experience the professional atmosphere and possibly catch a fascinating event during your visit.
  • Desert Botanical Garden: A mere 0.3 miles from Hole in the Rock, this stunning garden showcases the unique desert flora. Perfect for families, couples, or anyone seeking a peaceful outdoor experience, it's a romantic oasis where nature flourishes.

Best time to go to Hole in the Rock

Visitor numbers around Hole in the Rock is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Hole in the Rock can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Hole in the Rock falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Hole in the Rock falls in January and December. December has average visitor numbers and sunny weather.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January55.4°F (13.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
February58.6°F (14.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
March66.0°F (18.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April74.5°F (23.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May82.0°F (27.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June92.3°F (33.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
July95.7°F (35.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August94.8°F (34.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
September89.8°F (32.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October77.7°F (25.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
November65.5°F (18.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
December55.4°F (13.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Hole in the Rock

To save money on your visit to Hole in the Rock in Phoenix, take advantage of the free admission and nearby attractions like Scottsdale Fashion Square and Camelback Mountain. The cheapest months to stay are June to August, with lower hotel prices if booked about a month in advance. For spontaneous travelers, check out last-minute deals on Expedia, and use filters to find budget-friendly, eco-certified accommodations. Consider combining your hotel stay with flights and activities for package savings, and join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and cash rewards on future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Hole in the Rock are June to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to April, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Hole in the Rock about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search feature to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the “Eco-certified” filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Hole in the Rock with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.