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Routes
Running trails & routes
United States
Arizona
Maricopa County
Tempe

Tempe Town Lake Loop

Moderate

4.7

(2839)

17,893

runners

Tempe Town Lake Loop

00:53

8.63km

10m

Running

If you are looking for a moderate jogging route with a mix of urban and natural scenery, the Tempe Town Lake Loop is a great choice. This paved path takes you around the lake, offering tranquil water views on one side and the vibrant downtown Tempe skyline on the other. You will cover 5.4 miles (8.6 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 34 feet (10 metres), making it a comfortable run that typically takes around 53 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the paths are open daily from 5 AM to midnight. A significant advantage of this route is that it is well-lit at night, which can be particularly useful if you prefer to jog during the cooler evening hours in warmer months. You can easily access the loop from Tempe Beach Park, making it a convenient option for a quick workout.

Beyond the exercise, the Tempe Town Lake Loop offers more than 20 pieces of public art along the way, adding visual interest to your run. You can also spot the distinctive Elmore Pedestrian Bridge and catch glimpses of the distant Papago Mountains, providing a unique backdrop to the urban environment. This route stands out for its blend of accessibility, art, and scenic views within the city.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

2.55 km

Elmore Pedestrian Bridge

Highlight (Segment) • Bridge

The Elmore Pedestrian Bridge is the most popular way of crossing Tempe Town Lake via foot. This is located at the western end of the lake next to the dam and isn't near any roads, which is a nice change of pace from a lot of the other pedestrian bridges in the area.

Tip by

2

3.83 km

Tempe Town Lake North Beach

Highlight (Segment) • Beach

If you run across the pedestrian bridge (or just start your run on the north side of the lake), you'll get to run through North Linear Park, past the lake's main marina, and past the "boat beach." The paths on this side of the lake are still all paved and easy to follow; a lot of road races and triathlons actually take place on this side of the lake.

Tip by

B

8.63 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

8.62 km

Surfaces

5.20 km

2.07 km

800 m

550 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

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Weather

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Today

Thursday 7 May

35°C

17°C

0 %

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Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it typically take to complete the Tempe Town Lake Loop?

The full loop is approximately 8.6 kilometers (5.3 miles) and typically takes around 2 hours and 17 minutes to complete at a jogging pace. This duration can vary depending on your speed and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

What is the terrain like on the Tempe Town Lake Loop?

The trail is mostly flat and features wide, paved concrete paths on both the north and south sides of the lake, making it excellent for jogging. While predominantly paved, you might encounter some gravel sections, particularly near the yacht club. These gravel areas are not lit at night.

Is the Tempe Town Lake Loop suitable for beginners?

Yes, the loop is considered easy and is very suitable for beginners. Its flat nature and paved surfaces provide a smooth and consistent experience, making it accessible for all levels of runners or those looking for a casual workout.

What are the best times to jog this route?

The trail is open daily from 5 AM to midnight. During the warmer Phoenix months, jogging in the early morning or evening is recommended to avoid the heat. A significant advantage is that the path is well-lit at night, allowing for comfortable evening runs.

Are dogs allowed on the Tempe Town Lake Loop?

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! You'll often see other dog-walkers enjoying the route. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to keep the path pleasant for everyone.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to use the trail or Tempe Beach Park?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Tempe Town Lake Loop trail or Tempe Beach Park itself. It's freely accessible to the public during its operating hours.

What kind of scenery and landmarks can I expect to see along the way?

You'll enjoy a dynamic mix of urban and natural views. The trail offers tranquil water views of Tempe Town Lake on one side and the vibrant cityscape of Tempe, including downtown and the Arizona State University campus, on the other. You might also catch glimpses of the Phoenix skyline, the Rio Salado, and the Papago Mountains. Keep an eye out for public art installations scattered along the route, and don't miss crossing the Elmore Pedestrian Bridge or passing by the Tempe Town Lake North Beach.

Where can I park to access the Tempe Town Lake Loop?

There are several parking options around Tempe Town Lake. You can find paid parking garages and lots in downtown Tempe, particularly near Mill Avenue. Some areas around Tempe Beach Park also offer parking. Check local signage for specific parking regulations and fees.

Does this route connect to other trails?

Yes, the Tempe Town Lake Loop connects to several other paths. The route itself incorporates sections of the Rio Salado Pathway, Tempe Town Lake North Path, and the Canal Trail. You can also connect to more challenging routes in nearby Papago Park and 'A Mountain' for extended adventures.

What are the operating hours for the trail?

The Tempe Town Lake Loop is open daily from 5 AM to midnight. The paths are well-lit at night, making it a popular spot for evening activities.

Are there any facilities like restrooms or water fountains along the loop?

Given its urban setting, you'll find various facilities available. Restrooms are located within Tempe Beach Park and at other points around the lake. There are also water fountains, and numerous cafes and shops are easily accessible in downtown Tempe, just off the trail, for additional refreshments.

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Tempe Town Lake Loop

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