Located next to the Phoenix Zoo, this desert gem is an affordable alternative to many of the local museums and attractions. Among the splendid desert beauty is a handful of activities that are sure to meet your recreational needs.
Orienteering in Phoenix: Beautiful Courses Available at Papago Park
Orienteering can be practiced both as a competitive sport or a recreational hobby. The orienteer uses a compass and detailed map to locate specific points in their environment. Papago Park offers a fun orienteering guide that is sure to please both avid enthusiasts and beginners.
Practice Your Archery with the Papago FITA Archer's Club
The archery range at Papago Park is open daily from dusk until dawn. The range is located on the northwest side of 64th street and McDowell road and offers hay bale targets which are set up daily. The range is measured in both meters and yards. Novices should take advantage of the Papago FITA Archer's Club which meets on Saturday mornings. There is no fee or membership, however, donations help keep it going.
Scenic Views of Phoenix at Papago Park's Hole in the Rock
From novice hikers to well trained mountain climbers, Papago Park is adored by them all. It is a gorgeous backdrop for simply meandering through the flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert. While some wildlife can be encountered, it is a safer trek for families who fear some of the venomous desert creatures found outside the city limits. Hole-in-the-Rock is a popular geological feature that opens up an amazing view of the city. The hike up can be as easy or difficult as you like, depending on the chosen route.
Urban Fishing in Phoenix is at Its Best at Papago Park's Three Ponds
An urban fishing license is needed to drop a line in any of the three ponds, but is well worth the catch you might take home. The ponds contain bass, catfish, sunfish, trout, white amur and tilapia and there are daily catch limits that must be followed.
Picnicking in Phoenix is Made Easy with Papago Park's Ramadas
Ten ramadas can be found throughout the park that offer superb shading and picnicking amenities. The ramadas can be rented for the day for a small fee ranging from $25 to $60, depending on the size. On slow days most locals simply find an empty Ramada and enjoy a meal. They offer bar-b-que grills, tables and AC outlets.
Papago Park is the perfect place to indulge in the beauty of the Sonoran desert. The park is open from 6:30 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. every day of the year. The website offers fun facts and additional trail guides for hiking and orienteering while the Papago Archery site offers information on the FITA Archer's club.
Vivian Nelson Melle - Vivian is a special educator, counselor and mother who turns life experiences into helpful lessons.
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