Papago Park – Hole in the Rock loop from Veterans Way/College Ave

If you're looking for an accessible and diverse mountain biking experience right in the heart of Tempe, the Papago Park – Hole in the Rock loop from Veterans Way/College Ave is a fantastic choice. This easy 14.7-mile (23.6 km) route, with a manageable 696 feet (212 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 1 hours and 46 minutes, offers a quick escape into the desert landscape, perfect for a weekday ride or an introduction to desert mountain biking.

What to expect on Papago Park – Hole in the Rock loop from Veterans Way/College Ave

This route takes you through Papago Park's varied terrain, from smooth dirt paths to more challenging rocky and sometimes washed-out sections. You'll wind through towering red rock formations and lush desert flora, with sweeping panoramas of the Phoenix skyline and the distinctive Tempe Buttes. The highlight is undoubtedly the iconic Hole-in-the-Rock, which provides stunning vistas overlooking nearby lagoons, the distant downtown city center, and even the Phoenix Zoo. While the overall difficulty is easy, be prepared for some loose, sandy spots and embedded rock sections, especially near the Hole in the Rock, offering a good mix for riders from beginners to intermediate skill levels.

Planning your visit

Papago Park is an incredibly accessible urban park, making it easy to reach for a quick ride, especially from downtown Phoenix or the airport. The trails are multi-use, so you'll be sharing the path with hikers and trail runners; dogs are generally allowed on a leash. You'll find convenient parking lots, drinking fountains, and picnic ramadas available. Given its urban setting, it's a great spot for a ride any time of day, but mornings offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Trail details

• Distance: 14.7 miles (23.6 km)
• Elevation gain: 696 feet (212 metres)
• Difficulty: easy
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 46 minutes