Skip to content
FunKidsActivities
Hole in the Rock — Hiking with Kids in Phoenix

Hole in the Rock

4.7(6,243)4.7 out of 5 stars, 6243 reviews Phoenix, AZ

About Hole in the Rock

The Hole in the Rock offers a quick, rewarding hike with stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape, making it an ideal family-friendly adventure that combines nature and fun.

What parents should know

Summarized from real visitor reviews.

Best for: Families looking for a quick outdoor activityVisitors wanting a scenic photo opportunityToddlers (2-4 years) with assistanceChildren (5-12 years) can easily navigate the trailTeens (13-17 years) will enjoy the adventure and views

Why families love it

  • Short, manageable hike (5-7 minutes) suitable for most ages
  • Unique geological feature with a natural archway to climb through
  • Beautiful panoramic views of the city and landscape
  • Vibrant wildflowers along the trail enhance the hiking experience
  • Clearly marked trails that are easy to follow
  • Photo opportunities at the Hole and panoramic views

Insider tips

  • Visit early morning or late evening to avoid crowds
  • Bring water for hydration, especially on warm days
  • Plan for a short hike of about 5-7 minutes to the top

Good to know before you go

  • Peak afternoon hours when crowds are at their highest
  • Weekends if you prefer a quieter experience
  • Crowded during peak times, making it less enjoyable
  • Parking can be tricky during busy periods
  • Need to bring water, especially on hot days
Crowds
Crowded during weekends and peak afternoon hours; early mornings are quieter
Value
Free access to the site, offering great value for a memorable outdoor experience without hidden costs.
Food
No specific food rules mentioned, but bringing water is advised
Accessibility
Trail is steep but manageable for most; no specific special needs accommodations mentioned
Safety
Signs about staying on the path and revegetation efforts

What parents say

Anne Margaret White
5.05.0 out of 5 stars
"Fun, quick, quirky stop. Micro hike from the ample parking lot to The Hole. Stay on the path! Lots of signs about revegetation. Go straight from the parking lot past The Hole, then turn back to approach from the rear. Trust the process. Fun photo op. View isn't spectacular but you can see really far. Being in The Rock and walking through The Hole is really fun. Great for kids. The blue skies against the red rock is stunning. Lovely!"

a week ago

Shubhro Banerjee
5.05.0 out of 5 stars
"Busy (crowded) yet worth the visit. It’s a steep little hike to the top, with amazing view of the city and the landscape. It’s very close to the city, hence driving up to the point is very easy. The hike itself is easy for most ages. Early morning, peak afternoon, or late evening time are better if you’d like to avoid crowds and getting photob’d:)"

3 weeks ago

Rin S
5.05.0 out of 5 stars
"Very crowded but so worth the visit. It’s a steep, easy little climb to the top, with an amazing view of the city and the landscape. Driving up to the point is very easy but parking could get tricky during busy times. Early morning or peak afternoon are better if you’d like to avoid crowds."

a week ago

Reviews sourced from public Google data.