Tempe Town Lake — Paddling & the Rio Salado Path
Kayak, paddleboard, and pedal-boat a downtown lake, then run or bike the Rio Salado path along the water — Tempe Town Lake is the East Valley's open-air playground.
Tempe Town Lake is a two-mile reservoir on the bed of the Salt River, built behind inflatable dams in the heart of downtown Tempe with Arizona State University and the Mill Avenue district right alongside. It has become one of the most-visited recreation spots in Arizona and the centerpiece of the East Valley's waterfront.
On the water you can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and pedal boats from the boathouse, or bring your own non-motorized or electric-motor craft. Ringing the lake, the paved Rio Salado Pathway gives runners, walkers, and cyclists a flat, scenic loop, and Tempe Beach Park and the Tempe Center for the Arts anchor the shoreline with lawns and event space.
The lake hosts a packed event calendar — triathlons and rowing regattas, festivals, concerts, and one of the Valley's biggest Fourth of July fireworks shows over the water. It's a year-round draw, but the cooler months and mild evenings are when the paths and patios are busiest.
Common questions
What can I do on the water?
Rent a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or pedal boat from the lakeside boathouse, or launch your own non-motorized or electric-motor boat. Lessons and group paddles are also offered seasonally.
Is there a good place to walk, run, or bike?
Yes — the paved Rio Salado Pathway loops the lake and connects to a wider Valley trail network, making it a favorite flat route for runners, walkers, and cyclists. Tempe Beach Park has lawns, playgrounds, and shade.
When are the big events?
Tempe Town Lake hosts festivals, triathlons, and rowing regattas through the year, and its Fourth of July fireworks over the water are among the largest in the metro. Check the events calendar before holiday weekends — parking fills fast.
When should I go?
October through April for comfortable daytime conditions, and mild evenings in the warmer months. Summer middays are very hot with little shade on the open water, so paddle early or near sunset.
