Safe Outdoor Activities in Tempe During COVID-19: Hiking, Golfing, Boating & More
In the era of COVID-19, embracing a new normal means prioritizing safety and health for all. Tempe residents and visitors should adhere to the latest CDC guidelines. Maricopa County enforces additional countywide measures—review them to understand their impact on your Tempe visit.
Rejuvenate in Arizona's sunshine while maintaining social distancing of at least six feet. We're all in this together: make informed choices about safe activities, and stay home if you're unwell. For updates, visit the Arizona Office of Tourism for state resources and the Tempe Tourism Office for local info. Check the City of Tempe website for the latest coronavirus response news and resources.
Safe Ways to Enjoy Tempe Outdoors During COVID-19
Verify current hours via websites, social media, or phone for listed attractions. The City of Tempe's COVID-19 FAQ page is invaluable for planning.
Hiking Trails
Boost your vitamin D with a hike, practicing social distancing and carrying a mask. Discover favorites in our Tempe hiking blog, from 'A' Mountain to South Mountain Park and Preserve. Try new spots like Usery Mountain Regional Park, Tonto National Forest, or Cave Creek Regional Park. Note: Facilities like restrooms may be closed—plan ahead.
Outdoor Picnics
Tempe boasts green spaces like Kiwanis Park, Daley Park, and Tempe Beach Park—over 50 parks total for picnics with your household. Order curbside or delivery from Tempe restaurants (tacos, falafel, burgers, salads, desserts). See our blog for options by cuisine. Find more at the Tempe Tourism site; confirm hours and services.
Golfing
Golf relieves stress with built-in social distancing. Confirm restrictions like cart occupancy and mask policies for staff interactions.
Papago Golf Course, near Downtown Tempe by Papago Buttes, was designed by renowned architect William Francis (Billy) Bell (also Torrey Pines). Book tee times and review COVID-19 policies on their site.
Tempe's municipal courses, Ken McDonald (480-350-5250) and Rolling Hills (480-350-5275), offer rates from $13–$59 based on time, day, and cart use.
USS Memorial Gardens at Salt River
7455 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85258
This dawn-to-dusk attraction on the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community features a USS Arizona boathouse relic and 1,500+ illuminated columns honoring Pearl Harbor victims. NOTE: Relic Room temporarily closed.
Boating in Tempe
Boat Rentals of America at Tempe Town Lake and Kiwanis Park are open, sanitizing rentals thoroughly.
Tempe Town Lake (south side near Mill Avenue bridges): kayaks, pedal boats, electric boats, stand-up paddleboards, surrey bikes. Kiwanis Park (Baseline Rd & Ash Ave): kayaks, pedal boats, surrey bikes.
Hours/phone: Tempe Town Lake & Kiwanis Park | (855) 690-0794.
Personal watercraft permits for Tempe Town Lake available online via City of Tempe site—review regulations first.
Self-Guided Tours of Tempe
Public Art Tour: Explore inspiring art in neighborhoods, developments, Valley Metro stations, and ASU campus.
Mural Tour: Drive-by Tempe's street art for safe Instagram moments.
Tempe Tour: Navigate our 40-square-mile city by car, bike, or foot—see highlights on our site.
Biking in Tempe
Explore 175 miles of bikeways around Tempe Town Lake, Mill Avenue, or Papago Park. More info on City of Tempe site.
Tempe E-Bike Tours offers private rides (2-5 people): contact Todd Davis at (602) 980-3798 (bring water, bag, helmet).
Horseback Riding
6940 W. Broken Ear Rd., Chandler, AZ 85226 | (602) 796-3495
KOLI Equestrian Center on Gila River Indian Community welcomes small/private groups. Learn tribal history on scenic rides (groups <10). Sanitized gear; complete COVID-19 self-declaration form. Book online or call.
Green Line Overlook
1300 N. College Ave., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 387-5357
This trail overlooks riparian habitat near Arizona Heritage Center/O'Connor House. Access from parking lot (left toward dumpster/palo verde) or Papago trails. Spot birds/wildlife along the stream.
Hot Air Balloon Ride with Rainbow Ryders
Soar at sunrise/sunset; gift certificates available.
Guided Tours
REI Adventure Center: Private tours/classes (≤8 people), contactless rentals. Meet at start. Detours of the American West: Private Phoenix tours. 360 Adventures: Check mountain biking/canyoneering availability.
