<p>Taking D to ASU in a few days for Barrett visit and music audition. Neither of us has been to AZ-like climate before. D is worried about not having Water nearby.On map I see a river just north of campus. Is it a nice walk or bike ride to get there and what is the river like? Are there any other lakes or rivers not far away? What do students who grew up in wetter climates think of the climate?</p>
<p>Tempe Town Lake is probably about a mile and a half to two miles from the freshman dorms. It is a nice walk, except during the first month on campus when it’s 100+ degrees, and there are always event going on up there. However, it’s not a body of water you can swim in, so don’t expect to go in unless you’re on a boat. </p>
<p>There is a popular water attraction about 30 minutes away from campus called Salt River Tubing; it’s a relaxing way to spend the day.</p>
<p>Ummmmm . . going to the desert and expecting water nearby is like . . . </p>
<p>well, you get the point.</p>
<p>We like to build our lakes in the desert - Tempe Town Lake is the midget variety of these, there are others within an hour’s drive for swimming, water skiing etc. I think the climate happiness is more dependent on your enjoyment of warm sunny days. It’s not easy to find wool sweaters in Phoenix and there’s a good reason for that!</p>