Papago Park is a large, beautiful park in the heart of Mesa, Arizona. With more than 1,200 acres to explore, there’s something for everyone at Papago Park. Visitors can enjoy a picnic lunch under the shady trees, take a walk or bike ride on the many trails, go fishing in the small lake, or relax and enjoy the scenery. The park is also home to several interesting landmarks, including a natural history museum and golf courses. If you’re looking for a fun day out in Mesa, check out Papago Park!
History of Papago Park in Mesa, Arizona
Papago Park is one of the most beloved parks in Mesa, Arizona. The park is home to various recreational activities, including hiking, picnicking, and bird watching. The park also features several historical landmarks, including the Hole-in-the-Rock and the Hohokam Pueblo. Papago Park was originally inhabited by the Hohokam people, who built the nearby pueblo around 1200 AD. The Hohokam were skilled farmers and engineers, and they constructed an extensive irrigation system that allowed them to grow crops in the desert climate. The Hohokam people lived in the area for centuries until they mysteriously disappeared around 1400 AD.
In the late 1800s, settlers began to arrive in the area that would become Mesa. These settlers were attracted to the area by its mild climate and abundant water resources. They quickly began to use the nearby Papago Park, using it for grazing cattle and farming. In 1904, President Theodore Roosevelt established Papago Saguaro Forest Reserve, which protected the area from development. In 1914, the reserve’s name was changed to Papago Park, and it became a popular recreation spot for residents of Mesa. Today, Papago Park is a popular destination for both locals and visitors to Mesa.
The park offers a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy, and its many historical landmarks make it a unique place to explore. If you’re looking for a fun day out in the Mesa area, check out Papago Park!
What to do at Papago Park
Papago Park is a great way to experience the Sonoran Desert. There is something for everyone with hiking trails, a golf course, and a zoo at this beloved city park.
Start with a hike to take in all that Papago Park offers. The main trailhead is located near the parking lot, and there are several different trails to choose from, each with its unique sights and challenges. If you’re looking for something easy and family-friendly, try the Nature Trail. This short loop takes you past cacti and wildflowers before ending at a scenic overlook. For a longer hike with more of an incline, try the Indian Bend Wash Trail. This trail winds through desert washlands and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
After working up an appetite on the trails, make your way over to the Papago Golf Course for a round of golf with friends. This 18-hole course offers a challenging yet enjoyable round for players of all skill levels. And if you’re looking for something truly unique, check out the Hole in the Rock, where you can tee off from inside a massive natural rock formation.
Last but not least, be sure to visit the Papago Park Zoo. This small zoo is home to various animals, including reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. The zoo also offers educational programs for kids, making it a great place to learn about the desert ecosystem.
Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a relaxing round of golf, Papago Park has something for everyone. So head on over and enjoy all that this Mesa landmark offers!
How to get to Papago Park
Papago Park is located in central Mesa, just east of downtown. The park is accessible via the light rail, and several bus routes stop near the park entrance. If you’re driving, take US-60 to exit 143A for AZ-143 S/E Van Buren St. Turn left onto E Van Buren St, and then turn right onto N Galvin Pkwy. Follow N Galvin Pkwy for about 1.5 miles and turn left into the park entrance.
Visit Papago Park Today!
Papago Park is one of the best places in Mesa, Arizona! It has a long and interesting history, is home to many different kinds of animals, and offers a variety of activities for people of all ages. I recommend checking it out if you ever have the chance!
