Hiking Camelback Mountain
Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on .
Rock Climbing on Camelback Mountain. © Robert BodyCamelback Mountain is one of the most recognizable landmarks and popular hiking destinations in the Phoenix area. Rising above the surrounding neighborhoods of Phoenix, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, the mountain offers dramatic Sonoran Desert scenery and panoramic views across the Valley. Its two principal summit routes, Echo Canyon Trail and Cholla Trail, are steep, rocky and rated Extremely Difficult by the City of Phoenix, making preparation, adequate water and an honest assessment of hiking ability essential before attempting the summit.
- Camelback Mountain Trails
- Echo Canyon Trail
- Cholla Trail
- Hiking & Safety Tips
- Camelback Mountain FAQ
The Camel sits elegantly and touches the borders of Phoenix, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, Arizona. Its base and foothills are a quiet blend of luxury homes, resorts and golf courses that merge together to create a synergy of nature, lifestyle and outdoor recreation. It all seems to be in perfect harmony.
Hiking Camelback Mountain Trails
Camelback Mountain provides a challenging urban hiking experience within the Greater Phoenix area. The two primary routes to the summit are Echo Canyon Trail and Cholla Trail. Both climb steep, exposed desert terrain and include rocky sections that require careful footing and, in places, scrambling. Although Cholla is slightly longer, neither route should be considered an easy alternative to the other.
Camelback Mountain is open from sunrise to sunset. Hiking conditions can become dangerous during periods of extreme heat, so check current weather, trail conditions and City of Phoenix advisories before leaving for the trailhead. Carry more water than you expect to need and turn around before your water supply is half gone.
Shorter Echo Canyon Area Trails
Visitors who do not plan to attempt the summit can explore shorter routes near the Echo Canyon trailhead. These walks provide a taste of Camelback Mountain's desert setting without committing to either of the extremely difficult summit routes.
Bobby's Rock Trail
Bobby's Rock is a short trail accessed from the Echo Canyon area. It can be an option for visitors looking for a considerably shorter outing than the summit trails.
Ramada Loop Trail
Ramada Loop is another short route near the Echo Canyon trailhead. It loops through the lower mountain area and returns toward the parking area without making the strenuous climb to Camelback's summit.
Cholla Trail
Cholla Trail is a slightly longer route to the summit of Camelback Mountain, but it is also rated Extremely Difficult. The trail begins from the Invergordon Road area and climbs through exposed Sonoran Desert terrain before becoming increasingly rocky and technical toward the upper mountain. Hikers should expect steep sections, uneven footing and scrambling near the summit.
- Distance: 1.5 miles
- Elevation Change: 1,420 feet
- Difficulty: Extremely Difficult
- Hours: Sunrise to sunset
- Parking: No designated trailhead parking; limited legal street parking nearby
Echo Canyon Trail
Echo Canyon Trail is the shorter but very steep route to the summit of Camelback Mountain. The trail begins at the Echo Canyon Trailhead at 4925 E. McDonald Drive and quickly gains elevation over rugged and increasingly difficult terrain. Steep grades, exposed rock and scrambling make this an extremely difficult hike intended for experienced and well-prepared hikers.
- Difficulty: Extremely Difficult
- Trailhead: 4925 E. McDonald Drive
- Summit Elevation: Approximately 2,704 feet
- Hours: Sunrise to sunset
- Parking: Limited and frequently full during busy periods
Know Before You Hike Camelback Mountain
- Both Echo Canyon and Cholla are rated Extremely Difficult.
- Camelback Mountain trails are open from sunrise to sunset.
- Parking is limited, especially during the busiest hiking season.
- Dogs are prohibited on all Camelback Mountain trails year-round.
- Check current weather, heat restrictions and trail closures before your hike.
Check the official trail status for the latest updates on closings.
Camelback Mountain Hiking And Safety Tips
Camelback Mountain's location in the city can make the hike seem more forgiving than it actually is. The summit trails are steep, rocky and exposed to the desert sun, and rescues occur regularly throughout Phoenix mountain preserves. Preparation is especially important during warm weather.
- Check the weather forecast before starting your hike.
- Carry plenty of water and begin drinking before you feel thirsty.
- Wear sturdy footwear suitable for steep and rocky terrain.
- Stay on designated trails and do not attempt shortcuts.
- Turn around if heat, fatigue or trail difficulty exceeds your ability.
Best Time To Hike Camelback Mountain
Cooler fall, winter and spring weather generally provides the most comfortable conditions for hiking Camelback Mountain. Summer temperatures in Phoenix can become dangerously hot, particularly on exposed slopes with little shade. During warmer months, consider an early start when conditions allow, and always check current City of Phoenix trail and heat advisories before heading to the mountain.
Camelback Mountain Hiking FAQ
How difficult is hiking Camelback Mountain?
The two principal summit routes, Echo Canyon Trail and Cholla Trail, are both rated Extremely Difficult by the City of Phoenix. Hikers should expect steep climbs, rugged rock, uneven footing and sections that may require scrambling.
Which Camelback Mountain trail is easier?
Neither Echo Canyon nor Cholla should be considered easy. Cholla is slightly longer, while Echo Canyon is known for a particularly steep ascent. Both are rated Extremely Difficult and are best suited to hikers prepared for strenuous desert terrain.
How high is Camelback Mountain?
Camelback Mountain's summit reaches approximately 2,704 feet above sea level and provides panoramic views across the Greater Phoenix area.
What are the hours for Camelback Mountain?
Camelback Mountain trailheads and trails are generally open from sunrise to sunset. Hikers should check the City of Phoenix website before visiting for temporary closures, heat restrictions or other current advisories.
Are dogs allowed on Camelback Mountain trails?
No. Dogs are prohibited on all Camelback Mountain trails year-round.
Other Popular Hiking In Phoenix
For additional Greater Phoenix hiking, consider Piestewa Peak and South Mountain Park. Along with Camelback Mountain, these areas provide some of the city's best-known desert hiking experiences and offer routes with different distances, terrain and difficulty levels.
Related Phoenix Interest
Phoenix Arizona
Greater Phoenix Map
Rawhide Western Town
Roosevelt Lake Map & Directions
South Mountain Park
Phoenix To South Rim
Greater Phoenix Things To Do
Hiking Papago Park
Phoenix Dude Ranches
Phoenix Events & Festivals
Desert Botanical Garden
Piestewa Peak Hiking
Phoenix Weather Info
Phoenix Boat Tours
Mystery Castle
Phoenix Horseback Riding
Camelback Mountain
Phoenix Area Museums
Phoenix Zoo
Phoenix Arts & Theatre
Japanese Friendship Garden
Phoenix Fishing Guides
Phoenix Area Attractions
Metro Phoenix
