. . . "9"^^ . "2017-12-27T00:00:00"^^ . "13"^^ . "5"^^ . "Hole In The Rock (HITR) is a fantastic option to enjoy the great outdoors and take a leisurely hike. The 'HITR' is just north of the Phoenix Zoo inside Papago Park. It took us roughly ten minutes to drive here from downtown Phoenix. You hike up the short path, and before you know it, you are on the mountain and into the 'hole' with a stellar view of nature and the surrounding city. It takes roughly 10/15 minutes round trip moving at a slow pace. \n\nThis beautiful thing about this hike is that it is great for everyone - small kids, teens, adults, and dogs. In fact, it is one of the easiest hikes you will ever take. The mountain is made up of massive sandstone buttes with a smooth, manicured, and well-maintained path that ushers you to the top. \n\nThe path wraps behind the 'mountain' to the entrance of the rock inset. Once you made it to the top, there are wonderful views of the Phoenix skyline peering out from the hole. The hole is a natural geological formation and is easily visible from the parking lot for those who cannot hike for health reasons.\n\nHot Tips:\n\n\u00B7 As with any hike in Phoenix, you will want to save this for early mornings in the summer, or for the winter months. The desert heat is no joke, and you will want to enjoy this in the cooler time of day or months.\n\n\u00B7 Always carry water with you to stay hydrated on any hike in the desert (even if the weather is cooler).\n\n\u00B7 You can do this hike in normal tennis shoes. However, watch for gravel and be careful on the sandstones since it can be smooth and slippery. We wore hiking shoes and would recommend you get a pair to enjoy the stability they offer.\n\n\u00B7 Bring 'poop bags' if you are taking your animals and clean up after yourself. Bring water for them, too! \n\n\u00B7 After the hike, take a stroll around the lake and enjoy yourself. There are plenty of covered areas to enjoy a picnic."^^ . "6"^^ .