Tempe Butte: A Mountain Landmark

Hike Tempe's iconic 'A Mountain' for panoramic views, rich history, and a touch of ASU spirit in the heart of the city.

4.7

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

Tempe Butte, also known as 'A Mountain,' is a prominent andesite butte located on Arizona State University's Tempe campus. It's a popular hiking spot offering panoramic views of Tempe and the surrounding area, marked by a large, gold-painted 'A' near its summit.

A brief summary to Tempe Butte

Tempe, Arizona, US

Local tips

Hike in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat, as the trail is exposed.
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail is rocky with some concrete steps.
Bring water to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Be aware that parking near the mountain can be limited and may require payment.
Consider visiting during off-peak times to avoid crowds, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Getting There

Walking

From downtown Tempe, the trailhead is easily accessible on foot. Head towards Mill Avenue and Rio Salado Parkway. The Leonard Monti Trail begins behind the Tempe Transportation Center, and the Hayden Butte Trailhead is located behind Tempe Mission Palms Hotel. Follow the signs towards the summit. Allow approximately 20-30 minutes to reach the top.
Public Transport

The Valley Metro Streetcar has several stops near Tempe Butte. The 3rd St/Mill Ave stop connects to the light rail and is about 500 feet from the trail. From the streetcar or light rail stop, walk south towards Rio Salado Parkway and then east towards Mill Avenue to reach the trailhead. A single ride on the streetcar or light rail costs $2.
Taxi/Ride-share

Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Tempe. Request a ride to the intersection of Mill Avenue and Rio Salado Parkway, near the Tempe Mission Palms Hotel. From there, it's a short walk to the Hayden Butte Trailhead. A short ride from downtown Tempe to the trailhead will typically cost between $7 and $12.
Parking

Several parking garages and lots are available near Tempe Butte, including the Hayden Ferry Lakeside Parking Garage and the 100 Mill Parking Garage. Hourly rates typically range from $3, with daily maximums around $20. Metered street parking is also available, but can be limited. Be sure to check parking options beforehand, as some reviewers mention challenges with paid parking near the site.

Discover more about Tempe Butte

Tempe Butte, rising 1,495 feet above sea level, is a distinctive landmark in the heart of Tempe, Arizona. Commonly referred to as 'A Mountain' by locals, it derives its nickname from the 60-foot-tall gold-painted letter 'A' that adorns its southern face, a symbol of Arizona State University. Geologically, Tempe Butte is an andesite butte of volcanic origin. Its formation is linked to the tilting of strata associated with the creation of South Mountain, with millennia of erosion shaping its unique hogback form. The area around the butte supports diverse desert vegetation, including saguaro cacti, buckhorn cholla, palo verde trees, and mesquite. Historically, the butte has been a significant site for human activity. Signs of early habitation by the Hohokam people, dating back to A.D. 750 to 1450, have been discovered, including petroglyphs etched into the rocks. The local Native Americans called it "ʼOidbaḍ Doʼag," meaning "Dead Field Mountain". In the 1870s, the area west of the butte became known as Hayden's Ferry, a major 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 in Greece, 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's name changed, the letter was adapted to a 'T' and eventually an 'A' in 1938. The current 'A,' made of reinforced steel and concrete, was constructed in 1955 after the previous one was destroyed. Guarding the 'A' from rival schools, particularly the University of Arizona, has become an annual ritual, especially during the week leading up to the ASU-UA football game. Today, Tempe Butte is a popular hiking destination, offering trails to the summit with panoramic views of ASU's Tempe campus, downtown Tempe, Tempe Town Lake, and the surrounding valley. The City of Tempe designated the area a preserve in 2002, ensuring its protection and preservation for future generations.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Tempe Butte

0.0 km

Hike Tempe Butte, an iconic landmark with panoramic views, rich history, and a touch of ASU spirit. A must-see Tempe destination!

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

Unlock Tempe's best: Expert travel info, maps, & local tips for an unforgettable Arizona adventure. Start your Tempe journey here!

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 Landmark

A brief summary to Tempe Butte

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-share

Parking

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