Besides Papago Buttes and an extensive trail system, Papago Park also includes the Phoenix Zoo, the Desert Botanical Garden, Papago Golf Course, and a sports complex. The location is convenient to downtown Tempe and Phoenix and is just a few miles from Sky Harbor Intl. Airport.
The Papago Hills, above, are made of reddish siltstone and conglomerate. |
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West Park Drive as shown in the map below has been converted to non-motorized use and connects to extensive bike and foot trails. In the area near the zoo there are urban fishing ponds that bring in plenty of ducks and other waterbirds with the most interesting species appearing during fall and winter migrations. Both the zoo grounds the botanical gardens are excellent places to study wildlife including many native, non-captive yet approachable species. The nature enthusiast can find much of interest in this oasis within the urban area. Picnic areas are concentrated in the area north of the zoo parking lot.