Biking at Papago Park

Hiking And Biking in Tempe

Hit the trails and experience nature up close

Tempe is in the heart of the metropolitan Phoenix area, which means that it’s also in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. Exploring the desert on a hiking or biking trail, seeing cactus up close and enjoying the Arizona sunshine is a quick jaunt from any Tempe hotel. Here’s where you’ll find some of the most popular trails in and around Tempe.

Marcos De Niza South Mountain

Take a Hike in Tempe

What could be more fun than taking in the desert scenery under blue, sunny skies? Hiking in the Tempe area is must-do for outdoor enthusiasts.

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Bike Ride Papago Park in Tempe Arizona

Bike Around Tempe

Tempe is a bike friendly city with plenty of trails and paths to explore

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Hiking and biking trails

A Mountain Tempe

“A” Mountain

With a quick jaunt to the top of “A” Mountain, also known as Hayden Butte, in Downtown Tempe, hikers are rewarded with views of the lake, ASU and rock drawings left hundreds of years ago by ancient people.

Mill Ave. and Third St.
Tempe, AZ 85281

(480) 350-4311
360 Adventures Camelback rock climb

360 Adventures

Want to experience the real Arizona? Get outside with 360 Adventures! We create amazing and memorable outdoor experiences with mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking and canyoneering tours. Whether you choose a half-day jaunt multi-day adventure, we’ve got you covered.

Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon

Camelback Mountain Cholla Trail

Cholla Trail is located along the ridge of Camelback Mountain, the highest point in the Phoenix Mountain at 2,704 ft.  Hikers experience a steady 1.6 mile climb with a fairly exposed section of ridge hiking towards the top.

6131 E. Cholla Ln.
Paradise Valley, AZ, 85253

(602) 261-8318
Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon

Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Recreation Area

Camelback Mountain’s Echo Canyon is one the more difficult, but rewarding, hikes in Phoenix. The trail ascends rapidly over a short distance. Hikers can experience a climb over rocky trails and boulders. The  trail length is 1.23 miles one way.

5700 N. Echo Canyon Pkwy.
Phoenix, AZ, 85018

(602) 261-8318
Biking near Ken McDonald Golf

City of Tempe Bicycle Paths

Tempe boasts 175 miles of bikeways, including bike lanes, desert trails and canal paths. Ride around Tempe Town Lake, down Mill Avenue or in Papago Park. The League of American Bicyclists has designated Tempe as a Gold-Level Bicycle Friendly Community.

Papago Park

Papago Park

This desert preserve features nearly 10 miles of hiking and biking trails throughout 1,500 acres. It is also home to several attractions and museums.

1000 N. College Ave.
Tempe, AZ 85281

(480) 350-5200
Piestewa Peak

Piestewa Peak

Located in the Phoenix Mountain Preserves, Piestewa Peak has numerous trails for hiking and trail running. At 2,610 ft., it’s the second highest point in the Phoenix Mountains, next to Camelback Mountain. Hundreds of residents and visitors hike Piestewa Peak per week because it offers great views and a great workout. Hikes to the peak usually take anywhere from 25-60 minutes, depending on the experience of the hiker.

5994 E. Squaw Peak Dr.
Phoenix, AZ, 85016

(602) 261-8318

South Mountain Park and Preserve

At more than 16,000 acres, South Mountain Park and Preserve is one of the largest municipal parks in the country. The park includes 51 miles of scenic desert trails for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking leading to breathtaking views. Trails can be found at 48th Street and Guadalupe or from Central Avenue.

48th St. and Guadalupe Rd.
Phoenix, AZ 85044

(602) 262-7393
Tempe E-Bike Tour

Tempe E-Bike Tours

Looking for a fun way to see all of Tempe? Try our guided and self-guided e-bike tours to explore all around Tempe. Come and join us to experience an e-bike adventure. Open for “meet & ride” for private groups.

Bicycle

The Bicycle Cellar

Bicycle Cellar is Downtown Tempe’s Urban Bike Shop & Commuter Support facility! We offer full-service repair, new bikes, accessories and rentals. We also offer secure bike parking, showers, lockers and towel service for commuters (membership required). Open daily!

200 E. 5th St. Ste. #105
Tempe, AZ 85281

(480) 219-7225

Tips for having fun under the sun

Travel Tips

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