Tempe Butte: A Mountain

Hike Tempe's iconic 'A Mountain' for panoramic views, rich history, and a connection to Arizona State University's vibrant spirit.

4.7

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
Arizona
Tempe
Tempe Butte

Tempe Butte, also known as 'A Mountain', is a prominent landmark in Tempe, Arizona, rising above the Arizona State University campus. This volcanic butte offers hiking trails to the summit, rewarding visitors with panoramic views of the city and surrounding area. The iconic 'A' on its slope symbolizes ASU pride and tradition.

A brief summary to Tempe Butte

Tempe, Arizona, US

Local tips

Hike in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the desert heat.
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be steep and rocky.
Bring water to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Take your time and use the handrails on the steeper sections of the trail.
Be respectful of the natural environment and stay on marked trails.

Getting There

Walking

From downtown Tempe, the trailhead is easily accessible on foot. Head north towards Rio Salado Parkway and then east towards Mill Avenue. The Leonard Monti Trail begins near the Tempe Transportation Center and the Hayden Butte Trailhead is located behind the Tempe Mission Palms Hotel. The walk from Mill Avenue to the base of the mountain takes about 5-10 minutes. There is no cost for accessing the trail.
Public Transport

The light rail provides a convenient way to reach Tempe Butte. Disembark at the 5th Street/Mill Avenue station. From there, walk north towards Rio Salado Parkway and east towards Mill Avenue. The trailhead is a short walk from the station. A single ride on the light rail costs $2.00.
Driving

If driving, parking is available in several garages and metered street parking near Mill Avenue. The Hayden Ferry Lakeside Parking Garage is located at 68 E Rio Salado Pkwy. Parking rates typically range from $3 per hour, with a daily maximum of $20. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during ASU events or peak hours.

Discover more about Tempe Butte

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.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Tempe Butte

0.0 km

Discover breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at Tempe Butte, a stunning mountain peak in Tempe, Arizona, perfect for hiking and photography.

Tempe City Hall

0.4 km

Discover Tempe's iconic inverted pyramid, a symbol of innovative architecture and downtown revitalization.

Harkins Theatres Valley Art

0.5 km

Discover Harkins Theatres Valley Art in Tempe, a cinematic gem blending classic charm with modern films, perfect for all movie lovers.

Hackett House

0.5 km

Discover Tempe's history at Hackett House, a beautifully preserved landmark hosting community events and showcasing local heritage.

Birchett House

0.5 km

Discover the historical significance of Birchett House, a charming landmark in Tempe, Arizona, reflecting the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Desert Financial Arena

0.6 km

Experience the excitement of ASU sports and events at Desert Financial Arena, a premier venue in the heart of Tempe, Arizona.

Tempe Tourism Office

0.7 km

Explore Tempe, Arizona: Connect with local culture, attractions, and events at the Tempe Tourism Office.

Blue Star Memorial Tempe Az

0.7 km

Explore the Blue Star Memorial in Tempe, AZ - a serene tribute to American veterans surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Hyatt House Tempe / Phoenix / University

0.7 km

Enjoy spacious suites, modern amenities, and a prime location near ASU and Tempe's top attractions at Hyatt House Tempe/Phoenix/University.

Old Main

0.9 km

Discover ASU's historic heart: Old Main, a beautifully restored Victorian landmark hosting events and showcasing the university's legacy.

Gallery 100

0.9 km

Experience the innovative art of ASU's emerging talents at Gallery 100, showcasing diverse BFA student exhibitions in the heart of Tempe.

Mars Space Flight Facility

1.2 km

Explore the Red Planet at ASU's Mars Space Flight Facility: Discover Martian geology and ASU's role in space exploration.

Memorial Union

1.2 km

Experience the heart of ASU Tempe: dining, services, and community at the Memorial Union.

Arizona Distilling Co.

1.3 km

Experience Arizona's craft distilling scene with award-winning whiskeys, gins, and vodkas made with local ingredients in the heart of Tempe.

Elias-Rodriguez House

1.4 km

Discover Tempe's Mexican heritage at the Elias-Rodriguez House, a beautifully preserved 19th-century adobe home and historical landmark.

Unmissable attractions to see

Hayden Flour Mill

0.4 km

Explore the enchanting Hayden Flour Mill, a historical site in Tempe, Arizona, offering stunning riverside views and insights into the region's rich milling history.

Mountain America Stadium

0.4 km

Discover the excitement of Mountain America Stadium in Tempe, Arizona—where sports and entertainment come together in a vibrant atmosphere.

Downtown Tempe

0.4 km

Explore the dynamic charm of Downtown Tempe, where culture, dining, and scenic views along the Rio Salado come together for an unforgettable experience.

Tempe Welcome Sign

0.5 km

Discover the warm hospitality of Tempe at the iconic Welcome Sign, a vibrant landmark inviting you to explore this charming Arizona city.

Arizona State University Desert Arboretum Park

0.5 km

Explore the Arizona State University Desert Arboretum Park, a stunning showcase of desert flora and a serene retreat in Tempe, Arizona.

Rio Salado Park

0.6 km

Explore the natural beauty and recreational activities at Rio Salado Park, a serene escape in Tempe, Arizona for tourists and nature lovers alike.

ASU Art Museum Ceramics Research Center

0.6 km

Explore the ASU Art Museum Ceramics Research Center for an enriching journey through the art and history of ceramics in Tempe, Arizona.

North Linear Park

0.7 km

Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of North Linear Park in Tempe, Arizona, a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Tempe Beach Park

0.7 km

Discover Tempe Beach Park, a scenic gem in Arizona perfect for outdoor activities, relaxation, and breathtaking views along the Salt River.

Tempe Town Lake

0.8 km

Explore the beauty of Tempe Town Lake - a tranquil fishing lake and vibrant tourist attraction in the heart of Arizona.

LoPiano Bosque Habitat

0.8 km

Explore the serene LoPiano Bosque Habitat in Tempe, Arizona - a nature lover's paradise filled with diverse wildlife and beautiful trails.

Innovation Gallery

0.8 km

Explore the Innovation Gallery in Tempe, Arizona — where art, science, and technology converge to inspire creativity and discovery.

Arizona State University Tempe Campus

0.9 km

Explore the vibrant Arizona State University Tempe Campus, where education meets culture and stunning landscapes, perfect for tourists seeking a unique experience.

ASU Art Museum

1.1 km

Discover the vibrant world of contemporary art at ASU Art Museum in Tempe, Arizona, where creativity and culture come together.

James Turrell ASU Skyspace: Air Apparent

1.3 km

Experience the breathtaking interplay of light and nature at James Turrell ASU Skyspace: Air Apparent in Tempe, Arizona.

Experience the best of Arizona's cuisine at Terra Tempe Kitchen & Spirits—where local flavors meet innovative dining.

The Chuckbox

0.7 km

Experience the ultimate burger delight at The Chuckbox in Tempe - where quality meets affordability in a family-friendly setting.

Discover the vibrant Centerpoint on Mill in Tempe, AZ, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together in a lively atmosphere.

Buffalo Exchange

1.0 km

Discover sustainable fashion treasures at Buffalo Exchange, Tempe's premier vintage clothing store, where style meets affordability.

Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Taste of Tops, Tempe's premier bar destination for locals and tourists alike.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Tempe Butte with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Tempe Butte: A Mountain

A brief summary to Tempe Butte

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Driving

Unlock the Best of Tempe Butte

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Tempe Butte

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Tempe Butte

Tempe City Hall

Harkins Theatres Valley Art

Hackett House

Birchett House

Desert Financial Arena

Tempe Tourism Office

Blue Star Memorial Tempe Az

Hyatt House Tempe / Phoenix / University

Old Main

Gallery 100

Mars Space Flight Facility

Memorial Union

Arizona Distilling Co.

Elias-Rodriguez House

Unmissable attractions to see

Hayden Flour Mill

Mountain America Stadium

Downtown Tempe

Tempe Welcome Sign

Arizona State University Desert Arboretum Park

Rio Salado Park

ASU Art Museum Ceramics Research Center

North Linear Park

Tempe Beach Park

Tempe Town Lake

LoPiano Bosque Habitat

Innovation Gallery

Arizona State University Tempe Campus

ASU Art Museum

James Turrell ASU Skyspace: Air Apparent

Essential places to dine

Harry's Place

Loco Patron

Daily Jam - Breakfast & Brunch Restaurant

Caffe Boa

Cornish Pasty Co

Desert Roots Kitchen

Postino Annex

Bang Bang - Tempe

Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Foch Café & Bistro

CASA Tempe

Snakes & Lattes Tempe

Original ChopShop

Terra Tempe Kitchen & Spirits

The Chuckbox

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

TECHNOIRCANDY

ACG Go Anime Store

Daily Rotation

Mill Avenue Shops

Courtyard Shops

Lotions & Potions

Yucatecan Imports

Rave Circus (Powered by The Flow Shop)

Sun Devil Marketplace

Urban Outfitters

Rosebuds Candle Co.

Pitaya

Happy Healthy High Horny Herbs

Centerpoint on Mill

Buffalo Exchange

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Vintage Bar & Grill

Varsity Tavern

Low Key Piano Bar