The best walks and hikes around Tempe

Tempe offers a diverse network of over 25 hiking trails. Most of these, around 23, are considered easy, making them accessible for various skill levels. You'll find a mix of urban paths and desert trails to explore.

For families and beginners, the easy trails around Tempe are ideal. Consider the Tempe Town Lake loop, which offers scenic, flat paths. Another great option is exploring the trails within Papago Park, known for its distinctive red sandstone formations and generally gentle terrain. The Kiwanis Park Lakefront Footpath loop is also an easy, accessible choice.

Yes, several trails in Tempe are circular. The Tempe Town Lake loop is a popular 3.5-mile (5.6 km) circular route. You can also find loop options around "A" Mountain, such as the Hayden Butte ('A' Mountain) loop from Mill Ave/ 3rd St, offering panoramic views.

Tempe's hiking trails primarily feature the unique Sonoran Desert landscape. You'll encounter sandy paths, rocky sections, and distinctive red sandstone formations, especially in areas like Papago Park. Trails around Tempe Town Lake and "A" Mountain often include paved or well-maintained paths that transition to natural, craggy surfaces as you ascend.

Tempe's trails offer several notable landmarks and natural features. In Papago Park, you can visit the iconic Hole in the Rock and admire the Papago Park Red Rock Formations. "A" Mountain (Hayden Butte) provides excellent views of Tempe Town Lake and the city skyline. South Mountain Park & Preserve, a short drive away, features Dobbins Lookout with sweeping panoramas of the region.

The best time to hike in Tempe is typically from late fall through spring (October to April) when temperatures are mild and pleasant. The region experiences approximately 330 days of sunshine annually, but summer months (May to September) can be extremely hot, making early morning or late evening hikes essential to avoid the heat.

Many trails in Tempe are dog-friendly, provided your pet is on a leash. Papago Park and the paths around Tempe Town Lake are popular choices for walking with dogs. Always ensure you bring plenty of water for both yourself and your dog, especially during warmer months, and check specific park regulations before heading out.

Parking is generally available at trailheads and park entrances throughout Tempe. For trails in Papago Park, there are designated parking lots. For "A" Mountain, parking can be found near Downtown Tempe. South Mountain Park & Preserve also offers various parking areas at its trailheads. It's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends, as spots can fill up quickly.

Yes, several hiking areas in Tempe are accessible via public transport. Papago Park is served by local bus routes, and "A" Mountain is conveniently located in Downtown Tempe, which is well-connected by public transit, including the Valley Metro Rail. For more detailed information on routes and schedules, you can consult the Valley Metro website.

The hiking experience in Tempe is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers often praise the unique Sonoran Desert scenery, the accessibility of trails, and the panoramic views from spots like "A" Mountain. The variety of easy routes also makes it a popular choice for casual strolls and family outings.

While most trails directly within Tempe are easy to moderate, experienced hikers seeking more challenging climbs can find options a short drive away. Iconic mountains like Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak, known for their steep and technical trails, are accessible from the Tempe area and offer rewarding, strenuous hikes with unforgettable views.

Due to its desert environment, most trails in Tempe offer limited natural shade. During summer, it's crucial to hike very early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid direct sun exposure and extreme heat. Trails around Tempe Town Lake might offer some shade from urban structures, but generally, prepare for full sun exposure on desert paths.