Camelback Hike — Attraction in Phoenix

This Echo Canyon trail of Camelback Mountain is a great hike and the original trail, before the less advanced Cholla trail was added to the other side of the mountain. 1.3 miles to the top. Challenging. Plan accordingly so you can get down with plenty of light and not be in a rush, as there is plenty of loose shale. Recommend hiking boots, not sneakers. This hike is shorter than Piestewa but more challenging, if you exclude the tiny jaunt on the small pinnacle of Piestewa, where you have to pull yourself practically straight up to touch the plaque which marks completion. Will require some bouldering and pulling yourself up with their carefully placed poles. I took my 50+ yr old mom a few times until she decided it was too much for her and she was done, but I know lots of people that age climb it every day for exercise. Stay on the path. The city will charge you big fee if they have to rescue you with...

Amazing views at the top! It is a very challenging hike! Be sure you have your hands free when doing this hike! I met a few people who brought drinks and no pack to carry their drink. I saw some people carrying their drinks but a good chunk of the hike is sprawling. I brought a backpack to make it easier for bringing snacks and water.

It took me 70 minutes up and I did make sure to take breaks going up. I showed up around 8 am yesterday and there was plenty of parking. When I left, parking was filled and a lot of people at the entrance of the lot looking.

I’m from out of town so I’m not used to the weather. I wish I would have started even sooner. I got very warm during the hike. Be sure to bring lots of water. There are bathrooms and water at the trailhead.

There was a cute little Christmas tree at the top that I thought was cute...

This hike by no means is casual and will be a challenge for most. You will need your hands going up and on the way down. I would highly recommend hiking this early around 5 or 6 am to avoid traffic and the sun. The sun will zap the life out of you on this hike if you start late. One little water bottle will not be enough for this hike. I recommend a small light backpack with minimum two bottles and a banana or granola bar to sustain energy. The hike up and down takes about 3 hours but most people in shape can climb up in 30 ~40 mins they have restrooms at the start and plenty of places to stop and rest while climbing. You dont have to reach the top to have beautiful views. The climbing community is super...