Tempe Butte: A Mountain

Tempe Butte, affectionately called 'A Mountain' by locals, is more than just a scenic backdrop; it's a landmark steeped in history and geological significance. Rising to approximately 1,495 feet, this andesite butte is a volcanic remnant that has witnessed millennia of change. Originally part of horizontal layers, the strata tilted with the formation of South Mountain, with erosion creating its distinctive shape.Signs of early habitation by the Hohokam people, dating back to between A.D. 750 and 1450, have been found on Tempe Butte, including petroglyphs etched into the rocks. These ancient markings offer a glimpse into the lives of the region's earliest inhabitants. In the late 19th century, the area west of the butte became known as Hayden's Ferry, a crucial crossing point on the Salt River. Darrell Duppa, struck by the area's beauty, fancifully compared it to the Vale of Tempe near Mount Olympus, thus giving the town its present name.The tradition of placing a letter on the butte began in 1918 with an 'N' for Tempe Normal School. Over the years, as the school evolved into Tempe State Teacher's College and later Arizona State Teacher's College, the letter changed to a 'T' and eventually an 'A' in 1938. The current 'A,' constructed of reinforced steel and concrete, dates back to 1955 and stands 60 feet tall, becoming a beloved symbol of ASU. Hiking to the top of Tempe Butte offers not only a physical challenge but also a chance to connect with Tempe's past and present. The panoramic views from the summit showcase the city, the Salt River, and the surrounding desert landscape.