Camelback Mountain

Upscale homes and a few resorts flank the sides of the mountain

Camelback Mountain is in the Echo Canyon Recreation Area, which is managed by the City of Phoenix Parks Department.

The mountain is very close to the Scottsdale border and near several resorts, making it a convenient destination for both Phoenix and Scottsdale vacationers and residents alike.

Unfortunately, not all of the mountain was saved from development; just the top portion was protected.

Much of the base of the mountain is covered in expensive homes.

Two Arizona resorts – The Phoenician Resort and the Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain – are also on the mountain's south and north sides, respectively.

Dramatic rock formations attract both hikers and rock climbers to Camelback Mountain in Phoenix, Arizona

There are two short trails to the top of the mountain. However, we are forewarning you: these trails are some of the steepest in the state.

Expect rough terrain, loose rock, boulders, and areas of slickrock.

Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Summit Trail:

This is the most popular route to the top of the mountain and is the "Camel's head" end of the park.

It's estimated that hundreds of people per day make the steep hike to the summit.

This section is composed of ancient, red brecciated sandstone that has been eroded over millions of years by wind and water into fantastically shaped boulders, spires, caves, alcoves and cliffs.

The Praying Monk rock sticks out like a thumb

The Echo Canyon Summit Trailhead is at the eastern end of the Echo Canyon Recreation Area parking lot.

The hike to the top begins up a rough stretch of railroad tie stairs.

Look up and you'll see the Praying Monk, an 80-foot high rock tower that resembles a kneeling monk.

In about ¼-mile, stop at the saddle where you'll get scenic views of the weirdly eroded cliffs and boulders that flank the trail side.

This entire area is popular with the rock climber crowd.

Beyond this point, the trail becomes very steep as it winds up the side of the mountain.

Eventually, the trail passes over a slickrock area at the base of a huge cliff.

Make use of the handrail, especially on your return down the mountainside.

Looking towards downtown Phoenix from Camelback Mountain

You'll then clamber up and down boulder-strewn gullies.

At about 1.2-miles, you'll reach the summit. Take in the amazing panoramic view.

Return by the same route back down to the Echo Canyon parking lot.


Camelback Mountain Cholla Trail:

This is the less popular trail to the summit.

Though it is a slightly easier trek, it is also a longer route. You'll hike about 1,200 feet in the 1.5 mile ascent to the summit.

This is the "Camel's hump" end of the park. It is much older geologically than the "Camel's head" area.

The start of the Camelback Mountain Cholla Trail

Composed of Precambrian granite, the rocks here are about 1.5 billion years old - as old as the inner gorge schists of the Grand Canyon.

The trailhead begins on Cholla Lane, in the middle of an affluent neighborhood.

Parking is limited. See the Fast Fact section below for details.

The trail quickly ascends from here, offering a bird's eye view of the nearby Phoenician Resort, which borders the park.

The Cholla Trail switchbacks and winds up the side of the mountain.

The final ¼-mile requires a bit of scrambling (using hands as well as feet) along the rocky, steep ridgeline to the top.

Look for blue paint swatches and reflectors to guide your way.

Once you get to the top, enjoy the view from the summit. Then, hike back down the way you came.


Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Ramada Loop Trail:

If you'd like to explore the area without hiking to the top of the mountain, try the Echo Canyon Ramada Loop Trail.

This easy hike begins on the main summit trail at Echo Canyon Recreation Area.

Begin by taking the Main Summit Trail up to the 1/8-mile marker, then turn right.

Moonrise over the buttes of Camelback Mountain

This trail follows a series of small gullies and eventually loops around an old stone ramada and a small butte, before heading back towards the parking lot.

The Echo Canyon Trail makes a great, leisurely desert hike, offering visitors a chance to explore the eroded boulders and sandstone walls and cliffs.

You'll also get some views of the Phoenix valley.

Hiking Safety Note: You should not attempt to hike to the top unless you are in very good physical condition.

Saguaro cactus growing alongside the eroded boulders

The majority of Camelback Mountain/Echo Canyon is typical Sonoran Desert scrub community.

That means you will see:

• Creosote bush, which gives off a wonderful herbal scent after rainstorms.
• Brittlebush - a silvery-leaved bush with daisy-like, yellow flowers in spring.
• Palo verde trees – distinctive for their gnarled, green-barked trunks and branches.
• Ocotillos – the tall, wand-like succulents with spiky branches and lipstick-red flowers.

On the south-facing slopes, there are a variety of cacti such as saguaro, buckhorn cholla, teddy bear cholla and barrel cactus.

In the cooler, mostly shaded areas, look for wildflowers like orange-flowered globe mallow, red-flowered chuparosa (a favorite of hummingbirds), desert lavender and purple-flowered ironwood trees.

Scan the boulders for colorful "gardens" of lichens.


Animals

Because Camelback Mountain is an island of nature in a sea of urbanization, large mammals are generally no longer found in the park.

Patient observers may see smaller, common Sonoran Desert animals including:

• small mammals such as Harris antelope ground squirrels, wood rats and desert cottontail rabbits.
• desert spiny lizard, chuckwalla and other lizard species.
• birds species possible include rock wren, verdin, black-throated sparrow, white-throated swift, roadrunner, and great horned owl at dusk.

If you’re lucky, you might see a roadrunner while hiking the trails (Photo courtesy of the Arizona Game and Fish Department)

Look for Costa's and Anna's hummingbirds in wildflower areas and possibly peregrine falcons soaring along the high cliffs.

Old timers say that bighorn sheep once roamed Camelback Mountain's steep slopes before urban encroachment.

• Outstanding 360 degree views from the summit.
• Dramatic rock formations.
• Variety of desert plants and animals.

What to Know Before You Go:

The parking lot at Echo Canyon is small and fills up quickly

• This is a popular recreation area. The Summit Trails have very heavy use, especially on weekends.
• Parking: Currently, parking is free. However, the City of Phoenix has been considering user fees in the form of parking fees at this park in the future. No specific date has yet been set for implementing the fees.

  Parking spaces are limited and can fill up quickly. Be prepared to wait for parking spots on busy weekends. Go early to beat the crowds. Weekdays are less crowded though parking may still be a problem.

• Cholla Trail Parking Note: There is no parking allowed at the trailhead. Vehicles must park in the officially designated but limited spaces on the west side of Invergordon between Cholla Lane and Chaparral, next to The Phoenician Resort.
• There is no shade along the Summit Trail. Be sure to wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Take plenty of water and drink it.
• Watch your footing as you reach the summit. It's precipitous, jagged and has loose rocks.
• Wear sturdy, hiking boots with good traction and ankle support.
• Do not leave valuables in your car.

Season:   Late October to late April. Many locals hike the trails year-round but late spring/summer/early fall temperatures routinely exceed 90°F. Hikes during hot weather should not be attempted.

Visitor Facilities:   Limited.
Echo Canyon Summit Trailhead: portable toilets; water fountain (not always working) – be sure to bring your own water.
Cholla Trailhead: No facilities.

Camping: No overnight camping.

Horseback Riding: No

Pets Allowed: No pets allowed.

Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset.

Admission Fee: None.

Location:   5700 N. Echo Canyon Parkway, about 10 miles northeast of downtown Phoenix.

Closest Town: Technically, the park is in Phoenix. However, it is right near the Scottsdale and Paradise Valley borders.

Directions to Camelback Mountain:

Echo Canyon Recreation Area: Take McDonald Drive east about 1/10-mile from Tatum Boulevard in Paradise Valley. Turn onto Echo Canyon Parkway, which is on the south side of McDonald Drive. Note: you will still be driving on a residential street at this point. It will be about a ¼-mile drive to the trailhead parking area.

The teddy bear cholla cactus, for which the Cholla Trail is named

If the parking area is full, you can park along the east side of Echo Canyon Parkway. Park in the designated areas ONLY or risk receiving a parking fine.

Cholla Trail Access (east side of mountain): From Interstate 17, take the Glendale Avenue exit OR from Highway 51 (Piestewa Freeway), take the Glendale Avenue/Lincoln Drive exit.

For both, head east on Glendale until it turns into Lincoln. Turn south on Tatum, then turn east on McDonald until you reach Invergordon. Turn south on Invergordon. Park on the west side of Invergordon. Park in the designated area ONLY.

After parking, walk the ¼-mile gravel path along the south side of Cholla Lane to reach the Cholla Trailhead kiosk.

Management: City of Phoenix Parks Department.

Phone: (602) 262-6862 for Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department main number.

Restrictions:

• Fires are prohibited.
• No mountain bikes on the trails.

Hiking Time Estimate:
Camelback Mountain/Echo Canyon Summit Trail: 3-4 hours.
Cholla Trail: 3-4 hours.
Echo Canyon Trail: 1 hour.

Difficulty:
Camelback Mountain/Echo Canyon Summit Trail and Cholla Trail: Strenuous; expect to scramble over boulders and loose rock on some stretches, there are also areas of slickrock. Always watch your footing and go slow over uneven or slick surfaces.
Echo Canyon Trail: Easy.

Elevation Change:
Camelback Mountain/Echo Canyon Summit Trail: 1,300 feet.
Cholla Trail: 1,200 feet.
Echo Canyon Trail: 100 feet.

Note on Desert Safety:

• Summer hikes should only be done in the very early morning, if at all.
• Watch for lightning during the summer monsoon season.
• Bring plenty of water no matter the season and drink it.
• Watch for rattlesnakes on the Camelback Mountain trails.

Hiking Safety Note: Trail conditions are constantly changing. Before starting out on your hike, check with the public land agency that manages the area for current conditions or closures. Trail conditions can vary with season, weather and maintenance status.

Legal Disclaimer: Each person has their own limits and capabilities. We cannot anticipate every hazard or possibly know your abilities and limitations. When you follow any of the hikes we mention, you assume responsibility for your own safety. It is your responsibility to be aware of traffic, road and trail conditions, weather, terrain, wildlife, your abilities and those of any companions as well as other factors.

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