Hole in the Rock & Tempe Lake E-Bike Tour – 2 Hours

Discover Scottsdale’s Scenic Charm on a 2-Hour E-Bike Tour

This Hole in the Rock & Tempe Lake E-Bike Tour promises an engaging way to explore some of Scottsdale’s most iconic sights without the fatigue of a long hike or strenuous walk. While I haven’t personally pedaled through this route, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-rounded, enjoyable experience perfect for first-timers or casual riders alike.

What we love about this tour is its combination of easy e-bike riding, cultural spots, and natural beauty—all within a compact two-hour window. You get a safe, guided introduction to the area, access to scenic viewpoints like the Hole in the Rock, and the chance to see local landmarks like Tempe Town Lake. Plus, the small group setting ensures personalized attention, making it ideal for those who want a relaxed yet informative adventure. The one thing to consider is that it doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to be ready to meet at the starting point.

This tour is best suited for newcomers to Scottsdale, active travelers, and those pressed for time but eager to see a variety of sights. If you’re after a leisurely way to get a sense of the area’s landscape and history, and you enjoy a touch of light adventure, this experience should be on your list.

Key Points

• Accessible for Beginners: Easy-to-ride e-bikes make this tour suitable for all skill levels.
• Focus on Natural and Cultural Sights: From lakes and parks to historical landmarks, the route covers diverse interests.
• Small Group Experience: A maximum of 8 travelers ensures personalized guidance and attention.
• Great Value: Includes e-bike, helmet, bottled water, and an engaging route for $89.
• Timing and Convenience: A short, 2-hour ride fitting easily into a morning or early afternoon schedule.
• Authentic Local Insights: Guides like Anthony, Jackson, and others share friendly, knowledgeable commentary.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Old Town Scottsdale

The tour kicks off in the heart of Scottsdale’s historic district at Segway of Scottsdale Tours’ meeting location. From here, you immediately access the Greenbelt bike path, a scenic route that smoothly transitions into the surrounding parks and natural areas. Expect a relaxed start where your guide will give a safety orientation—crucial for first-timers or those new to e-bikes—building confidence for the ride ahead.

Tempe Lake and Riverside Views

The first major stop is Tempe Lake, where you’ll find a lookout spot perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the tranquil views. Reviewers mention that the ride along the canals towards Old Town and past the lake is one of the highlights, with some describing it as a “fun experience” that offers a different perspective of the city. Riding alongside water adds a soothing element and a contrast to the desert landscape.

Papago Park and the Famous Hole in the Rock

Next, you’ll cruise through Papago Park, famous for its dramatic desert scenery and iconic geological formations. The highlight here is the Hole in the Rock, an impressive natural formation that’s both a geological wonder and a terrific photo op. Guests park their e-bikes at the base and do a short, easy hike up to the lookout point—about 20 minutes total—offering sweeping views over the park’s rugged landscape. Reviewers rave about this stop, with one calling it “an amazing photo opportunity” and “a highlight of the tour.”

Hunts Tomb and Desert Botanical Gardens

Visible from the bike path, the tomb of George W.P. Hunt, Arizona’s first governor, offers a quick glimpse into local history. The tour then heads past the Desert Botanical Gardens, giving riders a chance to enjoy more of Scottsdale’s desert flora, even if just from the bike.

Scottsdale’s Cultural and Natural Landmarks

Riders continue past the Phoenix Zoo—a fun visual landmark—and along the canals towards Old Town Scottsdale. The tour emphasizes scenic views of Camelback Mountain as travelers cruise the waterways, with many reviews noting how unique it is to scooter or bike along the historic canals. This segment offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm.

Final Stop: The Hole in the Rock

The grand finale is the short hike and photo session at the Hole in the Rock. The view from the lookout is well worth the easy climb, especially for photography enthusiasts. It’s a moment where you can appreciate the unique geology of the area while resting your legs before heading back.

End of Tour

After exploring the Hole in the Rock, the route loops back along the same scenic paths, passing the Botanical Gardens from behind, and then retraces towards the starting point in Old Town Scottsdale. The entire ride is designed to be light, manageable, and packed with photo-worthy scenes.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in your $89 ticket are the use of a helmet and e-bike, along with bottled water to stay hydrated. This setup makes it simple for travelers—there’s no need to bring your own gear or worry about bike maintenance. The short duration means you can easily slot this into a morning or early afternoon outing, leaving time for lunch or other activities.

What’s not included is hotel pickup and drop-off, so plan your transportation accordingly. The meeting point is conveniently located in Scottsdale, and most travelers find it easy to reach by car or ride-share services.

The Experience from Reviews

Reviews are glowing, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5. Many highlight how easy and accessible the e-bikes are, even those who’d never ridden one before. Guide enthusiasm and knowledge are consistently praised—reviewers like Tina and Gillian mention how guides like Anthony, Jackson, and Molly were friendly, well-informed, and attentive to safety.

Several reviewers remark that the tour offers a wonderful mix of scenic views and interesting landmarks. One noted, “Our guide was excellent, bikes were in good condition and it was a great route,” while another appreciated the ability to see Scottsdale’s hidden gems, saying, “I saw several very interesting animals I’d never seen before.”

The shorter 2-hour duration is frequently cited as a big plus, making it manageable for families with active teens or travelers short on time. One reviewer wished they could do it every day, describing it as a “great way to see Scottsdale and Tempe without getting tired.”

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Go

• Age and weight restrictions: Travelers under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, and all riders should weigh at least 80 lbs (45 kg) for safety.
• Clothing and gear: Wear comfortable shoes, light clothes, and sunglasses—sun protection is key in Arizona.
• Booking: Most travelers book about 11 days in advance, highlighting its popularity.
• Group size: Limited to 8 participants, which keeps the experience intimate and allows guides to offer personalized tips.
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, giving you peace of mind if your plans shift.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This E-bike tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad, scenic overview of Scottsdale and Tempe. It’s also perfect for active travelers, families, or groups who want to enjoy the outdoors without the physical strain of a long hike or bike ride. The small, guided format ensures you’ll learn about local sights in a relaxed setting, making it suitable for all ages (with some restrictions).

If you’re short on time but eager to get a taste of Scottsdale’s unique desert landscapes, parks, and history, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s also a fantastic option if you’re interested in a fun, light adventure that combines natural beauty with cultural highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have prior experience riding an e-bike?
No, the bikes are easy to navigate, and a safety orientation is provided beforehand to help you feel confident.

Is the tour suitable for children or teenagers?
Yes, travelers under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, and the minimum weight for riding is 80 lbs (45 kg). It’s a family-friendly activity.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, lightweight clothing, and sunglasses are recommended. Sunscreen is also a good idea, considering Arizona’s sunny climate.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you will meet at the designated starting point in Scottsdale. Planning your transportation is your responsibility.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a morning or early afternoon schedule.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included in the price and are required for safety.

What if I have never used an e-bike before?
The friendly guides give a safety briefing and ensure you feel comfortable riding. Many reviewers say the bikes are very easy to manage.

Final Thoughts

This Hole in the Rock & Tempe Lake E-Bike Tour offers a fantastic way to explore Scottsdale’s highlights in just a couple of hours. Its blend of scenic beauty, mild adventure, and educational value makes it a standout choice for travelers wanting a memorable, relaxed experience. The knowledgeable guides, stunning viewpoints, and well-planned route promise a fun, hassle-free outing—perfect for those new to the area or anyone eager to see Scottsdale from a different perspective.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this tour is a well-priced, engaging way to soak up the desert landscape, learn about local landmarks, and capture some great photos. It’s an experience that manages to be both leisurely and lively, with enough variety to keep everyone interested.

If you’re after a fun, authentic taste of Scottsdale without breaking a sweat or spending a whole day, this tour is definitely worth considering.