Export to Trail Guide
Create Guidebook 
Download GPX 
Print Friendly MapThe Tempe Canal Path parallels the Tempe Canal between the cities of Tempe and Mesa. The trail consists of two disconnected segments, separated by the private Mesa Country Club. Both segments serve a large number of residents, businesses and public facilities. The trail is entirely paved, with a gravel alternative for equestrian users and joggers available on the opposite side of the canal.
From the trail's eastern end in Mesa, trail users can continue southeast on the Consolidated Canal Path to reach Gilbert and Chandler, or head north on the Southern Canal Path to enter the Salt River Pima–Maricopa Indian Community.
There are no official parking areas for the Tempe Canal Path, but parking can be found on adjacent neighborhood streets. Be sure to obey any posted parking restrictions.
The trail is scattered with homeless people, shopping carts, & trash. I don't feel safe. They need to patrol the canal roads & clean them up to make them safe.
The northern entrance at Rio Salado is closed by a fence. So we had to ride surface streets to find another entrance further south.
Path is partially asphalt and some concrete and while the settlement cracks look to have been repaired years ago, these are again in need which makes for a rough transition with uneven surfaces.
At major crossroads, one has to navigate these busy streets as there are few if any crosswalks at these junctures. INSANE scenario.
With the amount of revenue Tempe and Mesa generate from residents, businesses and tourists, one would think some could be devoting to optimize this potentially great pathway.
We turned back after 2.5 miles due to the unsafe nature of the outing. Wow!
TrailLink is a free service provided by Rails-to-Trails conservancy
(a non-profit) and we need your support!
