Tempe Town Lake is a man-made reservoir on the Salt River in Tempe, east of Phoenix. Its shoreline paths suit a walk, run, bike ride or skate, and rentals let you take a kayak, paddleboard or pedal boat onto the water. The lake is about two miles long, with Tempe Beach Park on its south shore and downtown Tempe nearby for restaurants and shops. Come for an easy outdoor break, or stay through sunset to see the changing light on the water and city skyline.
A lake created on the Salt River
Tempe Town Lake is a man-made reservoir formed in 1999 by damming a two-mile section of the Salt River. The project also serves geography and flood-control needs, and the lake conveys rainwater and snow runoff. Its position in central Tempe puts water, paths and parks close to the city’s downtown streets.
Tempe Beach Park lies on the south shore. The park has been a gathering place for local residents since it opened in the 1930s, and it remains a convenient starting point for time by the water. The lake and park are part of the Rio Salado recreational development.
Choose a route on land or water
A paved multi-use path runs around the lake, giving walkers, runners, cyclists and skaters a way to explore the shoreline. You can take a short stroll or use the route for a longer outing. The shared path can be busy with faster cyclists, so keep aware of others as you walk or ride.
On the water, activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, rowing, pedal boating and other boating options. Rental operators at the lake have offered different types of craft, including kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats and electric boats. Availability and rental details can depend on the service operating at the time, so check directly before planning around a particular boat.
Views, events and nearby stops
The lake gives you views of downtown Tempe and the surrounding mountains, with the Mill Avenue bridges providing recognizable landmarks along the water. Sunrise and sunset are both times to see the light change across the lake; at sunset, you can watch from the path or arrange a boat rental.
Tempe Beach Park hosts events and festivals during the year, so the atmosphere can change on event days. Downtown Tempe’s restaurants and shops are nearby, making it easy to add a meal or browse around Mill Avenue before or after your walk. If you plan to stay after dark, choose your route with care, as some areas can be less straightforward to navigate at night.
Perguntas frequentes
What can you do at Tempe Town Lake?
Walk, run, cycle or skate on the shoreline path, or get on the water with activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding and boating. The lake area also has parks and hosts events.
Can you rent a boat at Tempe Town Lake?
Boat rentals have included kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats and electric boats. Check with the rental operator for current options and details.
When is a good time to visit Tempe Town Lake?
Early morning and sunset are good times for views. Sunset is especially suited to a lakeside walk or a boat outing.
