Scottsdale Parks, Tempe Town Lake Hole in the Rock Hike

Travelers exploring the Phoenix area have a top-notch option in the Scottsdale Parks and Tempe Town Lake Hole in the Rock Hike. Offered by Greenbelt Bike Tours of Scottsdale, this activity combines the thrill of an e-bike ride with a scenic hike to one of the most recognizable natural formations in the desert. With glowing reviews averaging a perfect 5.0 score from 21 travelers, it seems many find this tour well worth their time and money.

But, as with any outdoor adventure, there are some considerations. It’s roughly 2 hours long, covering about 10 miles on bike and a short, easy hike, which means you’ll want to be comfortable on a bike and in decent physical shape. Kids under 5’2″ or those who lack good balance might find this challenging, so it’s better suited for active travelers comfortable with controlled biking on dirt paths and standing up to short hikes.

What we love about this adventure: First, the clarity of the guided commentary makes the experience engaging and educational—reviewers mention knowledgeable guides who enrich the journey with local insights. Second, the variety of scenery—from city parks to botanical gardens to desert vistas—keeps the momentum lively. But, a heads-up: you’ll need to bring your own bottled water, as it isn’t included, and tips are appreciated but not part of the price.

Highlights

• Includes use of quality e-bikes, helmets, and a backpack for ease
• Visit the iconic Hole in the Rock for a short hike
• Explore Tempe Town Lake and learn about the Rio Salado Project
• See Hohokam cultural sites and get panoramic views from Hunt’s Tomb
• Enjoy a mix of paved and dirt trails presenting diverse scenery

Seamless and Scenic Itinerary

The tour begins in Scottsdale at work scottsdale, a location close to public transportation, making it accessible whether you’re staying downtown or nearby. You’ll meet your guide and gear up with a helmet, helmet, neck gaiter, and a backpack — all provided. The choice of a mobile ticket rather than paper simplifies arrivals and departures, fitting well into busy travel schedules.

Exploring Eldorado Park and Scottsdale Greenbelt

The journey kicks off on the Scottsdale Greenbelt Bike Path System, passing through Eldorado Park, a lush spot perfect for soaking in some local greenery. These parks serve as a gateway to Tempe’s urban oasis. Travelers say the paths are well-maintained and easy to cruise, even for those new to e-biking. With only a 5-minute stop, it’s a quick warm-up, but a good chance to appreciate the desert’s accessibility.

The tour then proceeds to Vista Del Camino Park—a “world-class” park that hosts a championship disc golf course, according to reviews. Here, you’ll pass through the Tempe Habitat Wash and along the Rio Salado Riverway, where the smooth trails and scenic views of the river showcase a different facet of the Sonoran landscape.

Tempe Town Lake and Cultural Highlights

One major highlight is Tempe Town Lake, a hub of activity built on the Rio Salado River, now a centerpiece for recreation and relaxation. The guide shares insights into the Rio Salado Project, which transformed an industrial area into a vibrant public space. Visitors often mention how this segment offers a wonderful blend of urban beauty and local history.

Your guide explains how the lake’s construction was part of a regional effort to boost recreation and flood control, making it more than just a pretty view: a vital piece of the city’s growth puzzle. Expect about 15 minutes here for photos and stories, which many reviews praise for adding context to the scenery.

Iconic Hole in the Rock

From the urban parks, the tour ventures into Papago Park, famous for the “Hole in the Rock” formation. This natural window carved into the sandstone is accessible via an easy 25-minute stop for a light hike. Several reviewers remark on how the hike offers panoramic views of the desert, the Arizona Museum of Natural History, and glimpses of the Phoenix Zoo.

We loved how accessible the hike is despite the terrain being desert dirt—participants often say this is suitable for most fitness levels willing to do a bit of standing or walking on uneven ground. The scenery here intuitively connects visitors with the landscape where ancient tribes once farmed and built.

Historic Sites and Landmark Overviews

Near the hike, you’ll visit Hunt’s Tomb—a structures perched atop a hill offering sweeping Valley views and a snapshot of regional Sonoran Desert flora and fauna. A short 10-minute stop is enough to appreciate the sight and learn about Arizona’s early pioneers.

Another small, but meaningful, stop is near the site where Hayden’s Ferry once shuttled folks across the river. Tour guides often relay snippets about the Hohokam Indian farming practices dating back over 1000 years—an element that adds depth to the desert’s enduring legacy.

Food, Local Culture, and Final Stops

Post-ride, many travelers enjoy winding down at Hundred Mile Brewing Co, situated near the route’s end—an added bonus noted in reviews. While this isn’t officially included in the tour, it’s a perfect place for a cold drink after earning it.

Practical Details and Value Considerations

At $70, you’re paying for almost two hours of guided activity, including top-quality bikes, safety gear, and an ambitious route through parks, historic sites, and desert landscapes. While you should bring your own bottled water, the included gear and detailed commentary add substantial value.

The group remains small—maximum of 12—ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The tour is not recommended for those who lack good balance or are under 5’2″, but for those who meet the criteria, it offers a safe and enjoyable introduction to the area’s natural and cultural highlights.

Guides like Travis, Bo, and Randy receive high praise for their knowledge, humor, and safety-conscious attitude—reviews echo how engaging they make the experience. Their local insights help turn a simple ride into an informative, fun adventure without cognitive overload.

Best For

This tour caters perfectly to active travelers seeking a multi-sensory introduction to the Valley of the Sun. If you enjoy small group outings, scenic views, and learning about regional history at a relaxed pace, this is a fantastic choice. It’s particularly well-suited for solo travelers, couples, or families with active kids over 5’2″. It can be a perfect activity on a milder day—not too hot early in the morning—and offers a good balance of guided commentary and independent exploration.

This e-bike and hike tour delivers a convincing blend of outdoor fun and cultural storytelling. You’ll find the variety of stops keeps the interest high—moving from city parks through desert landscapes and finishing up with panoramic views from Hunt’s Tomb. It’s well-paced, friendly, and suitable for those comfortable on a bike and eager for a bit of local history.

It’s rare to find a tour so packed with scenery and insights that remains so good value for the $70 price point. From knowledgeable guides to the breathtaking views of the Valley, it promises an experience that feels authentic, fulfilling, and just a tad adventurous.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Children over 5’2″ and with good balance are more likely to manage the biking and hiking comfortably. The tour involves controlling an e-bike on dirt paths and doing some standing or walking on uneven terrain.

Do I need to bring anything with me?
While the tour provides helmets, neck gaiters, and backpacks, you should bring your own bottled water, as it’s not included. Comfortable clothing suited for moderate activity is also recommended.

Will the tour operate in bad weather?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours before the start earn a full refund. Cancelations within 24 hours are not refunded.

How physically demanding is it?
Moderate fitness and good balance are needed. The ride covers about 10 miles on paved and dirt trails, plus a short, easy hike. Not ideal for those seeking a completely leisurely experience.

What is the group size?
Groups are limited to 12 travelers, ensuring personalized guidance and a comfortable atmosphere.

In all, this Scottsdale and Tempe adventure offers a well-rounded, scenic, and engaging way to explore the area’s parks, history, and natural beauty. It’s best suited for those who want to actively learn about the region while enjoying Arizona’s warm, open landscapes—colorful, accessible, and full of stories waiting to be discovered.