Big Butte Loop
Table of contents
Route Description for Big Butte Loop
Papago Park is a recreational and hiking area, a golf course, and an access point for the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Gardens. In years past, it was a reservation, a fish hatchery in the Great Depression, a POW camp, and a VA hospital. Its interesting geology, particularly its erosion-carved buttes, is the focus of the Big Butte Loop.
This hike is rated as easy. The trail is clear, easy to follow, and lined with unique desert plants and cacti. The footing is mostly hard dirt. You’ll be next to the road for part of this hike, so expect a little bit of noise, but it’s still worth it.
From the trailhead, take the trail to your left. Stay left through several junctions as you hike along the side of the golf course. Bear right towards Elliot Ramada, a perfect place to stop and take in the views either now or on the return trip. The Papago Buttes are right ahead of you here, with their dark red coloring and their caves on full display.
Continue around the top of the buttes next to the road. Keep hiking on Big Butte Loop as it leads you all the way around the buttes to the ramada once more. From here, take Double Butte Loop back to the trailhead.
Getting to the Big Butte Loop Trailhead
The trailhead for the Big Butte Loop is on E Papago Park Road.Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
No
When to do:
October-May
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
High
Route Type:
Loop
Big Butte Loop Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
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