Hole-in-the-Rock

You can see Papago [1]’s rounded, red-hued buttes from the surrounding communities of Phoenix [2], Tempe [3], and Scottsdale [4], but the sandstone formations should be explored up close, especially the unique “holes,” which were formed by water erosion over millions of years.

Be sure to make the short, easy trek to the landmark Hole-in-the-Rock, a natural formation through which you can survey the city. Phoenix [2]’s first residents, the Hohokam, used the formation for astronomy and to track the seasonal movements of the sun.

You can also make the short walk to Hunt’s Tomb, a white pyramid that serves as the final resting place of Arizona’s first governor.