Hiking Camelback Mountain: Two Exhilarating Trails With Panoramic Views
Camelback Mountain, Phoenix, AZ
The Gist
Trip Type: Day Hike to panoramic views of Phoenix, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, AZ
Location: in Phoenix where the Town of Paradise Valley, Arcadia neighborhood and Old Town Scottsdale meet.
Cholla Trailhead: 5150 N Invergordon Rd, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Echo Canyon Trailhead: 4925 E McDonald Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85018
What To Do: Hike one of two trails or both combined
Parking: Unless you’re a local or have a local to bring you, don’t bother trying to figure it out. Just Uber.
Skill Level: “Extremely Difficult” (however… read below)
Trail Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Camelback mountain’s two trails
Camelback has two main trails, Echo Canyon and Cholla (said “choya”). If you're up for a real challenge and don't mind some steep climbing, Echo Canyon is for you. There are railings to grab onto to get up the steep parts, but if you prefer a more moderate climb with equally stunning views, the Cholla trail might be more your speed. Don't underestimate either of them, though; they both have their fair share of rocky terrain and jaw-dropping vistas.
Up and Over
My favorite way to hike Camelback is up and over. Then, you can get the full experience. Start on the Echo Canyon side and once you’ve taken in the view at the top, continue on down the other side. You can of course go the opposite direction if you want.
How Difficult is it?
Both trails are rated “Extremely Difficult” in spots because of the large boulders and climbing required in some of the trail. However:
Cholla Trail is a moderate level hike for much of the first half to the rest stop in the “saddle”. The challenging part is towards the top, so give it a try until you decide that’s enough and want to turn back. You’ll still see some great views!
Distance: 1.5 miles - Elevation change: 1,420 feet
Echo Canyon Trail is steep with railings in places to get up the tricky parts, as well as large boulders to climb towards the top. The boulders and unique desert terrain make this side more unique and worth it if you can make the climb.
Distance: 1.14 miles - Elevation change: 1,400 feet
Railings at a steep section of Echo Canyon Trail on Camelback Mountain
Parking
Parking isn’t great at either trail, although much easier at the Cholla Trailhead. I recommend taking an Uber.
Cholla Trail: Park on the street, Invergordon. Then walk to the trailhead which is through a small neighborhood.
Echo Canyon: There is a parking lot that fills up super fast and doesn’t hold many cars. So, go early or just get dropped off.
Pro Tips:
When To Go:
Winter and Spring: it’s a great day hike, although gets very busy. I recommend going at sunrise if you can. You’ll see some serious hikers there very early with headlamps on and locals who know to get in and get out. I say this after just noticing that the park times say sunrise to sunset. Never seemed to stop the morning people. The later in the day you go, the hotter and more crowded it gets with tourists. Parking becomes impossible.
Summer: Hiking Camelback in the summer is a bad idea unless you are experienced and acclimated to our extreme heat, 100 degrees+. Don’t even bother. It will still be 100 degrees at sunrise.
What to Wear:
Hiking/Fitness clothes
Hiking shoes preferred: You don’t necessarily need hiking shoes, tennis shoes will work, just know they will turn orange from the orange dirt.
A hat
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
What to Bring:
Water
Snack
Lip Balm
Bathrooms:
There are bathrooms at the bottom of each trail.
Dogs
Dogs are prohibited on all Camelback Mountain trails year-round.
View from Camelback Mountain in Phoenix, AZ
The Fluffy Stuff
Hey there, fellow adventure seekers! If you're in Phoenix and looking for an exhilarating outdoor escapade that offers a little bit of everything, Camelback Mountain is the place to be. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, here's what you need to know about hiking Camelback Mountain.
Let's talk about those views. At the top you’ll take in sweeping panoramic views of the entire city and the vast expanse of the desert. It's a sight that'll make you forget all about that uphill struggle. Even if you don’t make it to the top, the views are great the entire way.
Speaking of the desert, you’ll encounter some of its coolest residents. Keep your eyes peeled for lizards scurrying about and maybe even some desert flowers blooming against all odds. The saguaro (s-war-oh) cacti are a visitor favorite, as well.
Before you hit the trail, make sure you're prepared. Stay hydrated, wear comfortable and sturdy shoes, and pack some snacks to keep your energy levels up. And don't forget the sunscreen, because that Arizona sun can be unforgiving.
But most importantly, enjoy the journey. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, hiking Camelback Mountain is an adventure that will challenge you, inspire you, and leave you with memories that'll last a lifetime. So, gather your friends, lace up your boots, and get ready to conquer Camelback Mountain, one step at a time. Trust me, it's a hike you won't soon forget!
Afterwards
I typically hike Camelback in the morning, so it’s off to the coffee shop or brunch afterwards. These are my favorite spots nearby:
Hava Java, a local coffee shop at 32nd St. and Camelback
Matt’s Big Breakfast at 32nd St. and Camelback
Le Grande Orange (or LGO as the local’s call it) at 40th St. and Campbell
The Henry at Camelback and 44th St.
