Camelback Mountain was our first stop on our trip to Phoenix. The hike had a few perilous parts to it and is definitely a workout. In the end though, the views are worth it and you will feel really accomplished when you are almost done with the hike and see the apprehensive looks on the faces of the hikers beginning their trek up the mountain. Here are the few key points that I think would be helpful to someone like me (a beginner-level hiker) looking to hike Camelback Mountain: -Go (very) early in the morning. The reasons for this are two-fold: to avoid the heat and to make sure you can get parking. The trail opens at sunrise. -There was no parking lot, so we parked on the street (N Invergordon Rd) about half a mile away from the Cholla trailhead and walked. It was the closest parking we could find, and that was at 7:45 in the morning on a Saturday. -You cannot bring dogs on the trail. I mention this because we saw a group of people with a dog have to turn around and leave. -You will do some rock climbing/scrambling. The last 20-25 minutes up the mountain was basically all scrambling. I'm really glad that I brought gloves to help me grip the rock. I'm sure I could have managed without them, but it was still nice to have and several other hikers mentioned that they wished they had brought gloves. It would also be helpful to wear a Camelbak (and very apropos) or carry your water in a backpack because of the scrambling. I would also add that you should take your time with the rocks. There are many experienced hikers who move quickly but don't feel like you need to rush yourself. Take it slow and be safe. -There were lots of other hikers. Given that the hike is relatively short (distance-wise) and incredibly popular, we did not have a single moment to ourselves. Sometimes this was a plus like when we would see where the hikers ahead of us stepped to get the best footing on the rocks. Other times it was an annoyance as we had to wait often for groups to pass in the opposite direction. -Take lots of pictures as there are many amazing views. I almost chickened out of doing this hike after reading other Yelp reviews and there were definitely a few moments where I was a bit scared. That being said, I'm really glad that I went on this hike and would say that it was my favorite thing we did on our trip to Phoenix. read more

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I took advantage of cooler weather last weekend and hiked Echo Canyon Summit Trail. It was more like climbing than hiking. I went in the late afternoon and it was absolutely beautiful. It has been more than 10 years since I made this hike last, and wanted to give up so many times. View from the summit was stunning, worth the effort to go up there. I took three bottles of waters with me and am glad I did. I needed all of them. I dressed in layers. Wind was a bit stronger after I climbed up 1200 feet. I came prepared and am glad I did. read more

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Fun hike! I went with 3 other people to hike this trail while entering my 3 trimester of pregnancy. I did have to stop 3-4 times to cool down since it's such a quick incline and reached a stopping point due to a small climb before reaching the top that I believe to be unsafe or strenuous coming down from it. We went ton slower since I was being overprotective but coming down was easier than I would of expected. Advice: wear hiking shoes/ankle protective shoes and if hiking after 9am in the summer BRING WATER! read more

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Love hiking here. Challenging trails! Recommend sunscreen, water, and good shoes. There is an app to download, so you can keep track of progress. read more

Phoenix, Arizona! Camelback Mountain! Cholla Trail! It's hard to talk about this mountain without talking about the trail you did but I'm going to do it while keeping this review different from the Cholla Trail review. Before heading to Phoenix, everything I read said that Camelback was a must. I assumed desert and heat. Once seeing Camelback in the middle of a few neighborhoods, I started to wonder... how do you even get up that mountain?! The Answer: There are two trails. One being the Cholla Trail. Apparently, the Cholla Trail is the easier of the two trails! I'm going to give a more in-depth review of the trail and terrain over on the Cholla Trail Yelp page. For this page, I just wanted to give a rundown of Camelback. While hiking up this mountain, it doesn't take you long to realize why it's called Camelback. You climb followed by moments of downhill walking followed by more climbing. Further, into the trail, you start to ask yourself, Why do camels have so many humps?! The important thing to remember about this mountain is that the rewarding view at the top is worth everything. You also should bring water along. Plenty of water. At the top, we did enjoy a snack. There was also a drone that flew by before taking off again. One last thing to say to people that live in Arizona: I know you have plenty of hiking there. It's a hiking paradise. If you love this mountain, you should make the trip over to Albuquerque to La Luz Trail. It's worth your time. Stay tuned for Cholla Trail Review. read more

Definitely a hike you'll want to prep for. A bit of work to get to the top but it's worth it!

Great mountain to attack.I am 55 moderately in shape. I work out mostly 5 days a week. If u get short of breath , take a few min break & start again. A very rewarding climb . Gail Hill Cahn read more

Well, two plus years later and I made it back up this beast of a mountain. Tough to rate this hike with stars because the climb itself is like 2 stars, but getting to the top rewards you with five star views. On this day, a female had to be airlifted off the mountain after fracturing her ankle badly. The parking lot got a big bigger since my last visit, but the climb up is still brutal. You still have get up three huge rocky areas and two other areas that include those handrails. This time, it took about 1 hour and 45 minutes to get to the top and it was only semi crowded on a weekday. The way down is even harder and that was a 90 minute journey. Your thighs will be sore if you did everything right the next day. Still, great views on the peak, so do it once or twice, but that's all I would suggest ever. read more

Camelback Mountain - Brutal - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Climbing this mountain is probably one of my favorite things to do but definitely not in the summer time. Any time in the fall or Winter months is probably the most awesome experience you'll have in Arizona. It's a great climb there is usually a lot of cool people and you can get up and out and done in about 2 to 3 hours. Definitely a highlight if you are a visitor to the Phoenix area and if you live here is something you should do at least once. read more

When in Phoenix, hike the Camelback Mountain! If you're looking for an intensive workout or hike, look no further as this 2680 ft summit mountain is asking to be conquered. Two different trails, Cholla and Echo Trails available. The Echo Trail, is the more popular one that starts on the western side and quickly ascends 1400 ft in just over one mile. *Note: It's a steep incline on some parts where there are rails that you'll need to hold onto as you trek up. Total trip is approximately 3 hours for an experienced hiker. However, if you're with a larger group or someone who is a novice, you'll want to plan accordingly to the time as it gets hot quickly. The amazing 360 view summit of Phoenix offers breathtaking views of the city and landscape. Be cautious as there were several hikers who were injured during my trek and who could not receive help easily. Yes, there are Park Rangers at the trailhead so be cautious if you are departing towards the end of the day. read more

Holy hypovolemia! Bring lots of water. Parking: I opted for the easier Cholla Trail. There's no designated parking lot for the Cholla Trailhead. Parking is allowed along the street in certain stretches of Invergordon Road. I arrived at 6AM in the hopes of beating some of the August Phoenix heat, and so did a lot of other people. I ended up finding parking 0.7 miles from the actual trailhead. Parking was more plentiful at 9AM when I got back to my car, but I can't imagine how painful it would be to start hiking at that time. My level of fitness: First off, I was able to hike up to the summit and back down. It was challenging but I made it. If you've read through all the reviews about how difficult this hike is and want to know if you should attempt, here's a little about me. I'm definitely a casual hiker. I'm only moderately in shape. I hit the gym 2 to 3 times a week to pedal away on an elliptical, but I'm not at all the type of person who runs marathons or even half marathons. Heck, I've never participated in any type of running event. You will see plenty of those types of people along the trail though. Round trip (with extra distance to get back to my car) took me three hours. It was almost two hours to go up, and about 1 to get down. I'm not from Arizona, and I'm definitely not used to the heat. I packed 2L of water for this and drank all of it. I don't know how the people who carried their one bottle of water did it. Even with 2L on me, I was hitting periods where I was getting lightheaded from all the water I was losing on my way up. Maybe my kidneys just aren't cut out for the desert? I arrived at 6AM when it was still 85F outside. In retrospect, I probably should've started even earlier to avoid having the sun on me on the way back. I'd highly advise a backpack or something to hold your water. You want the option of having both hands free to help you climb towards the top. Also bring some good shoes, either hiking boots or running shoes. You'll want the traction. The Cholla Trail is supposed to be the easier of the two possible ones, but it's not easy. The incline wasn't too bad but there's just lots of scrambling over rocks and uneven terrain involved. It also has stretches where it gets quite narrow. People ascending have right of way. There are signs along the way to keep you on the right path for most of it. The final stretch of this hike involves some climbing. There's no trail with signs anymore to guide you at this point. Use the blue painted rocks to keep you going in the right direction. Enjoy the views at the top and then prepare to descend. You need to take the Cholla Trail back down if you need to get back to your car. It does not intersect with the Echo Canyon one. While going downhill is faster, it's more challenging to keep your footing. I started my descent around 8AM and at that point, the sun was starting to beat down on me. This hike was challenging enough that I really have no desire to attempt Echo Canyon. I'd be willing to do it again, but I'd probably either start earlier or do it at a cooler time of year. This was a great work out though with some beautiful views. I will definitely not be feeling guilty about anything I eat today. read more

Awesome hike and SO fulfilling to accomplish. Depending on your activity level and fitness, it may be challenging for you. There were many families with young children, to older adults, to singles, to sports teams, to more. A wide range of folks participated in the climb! We did it on a very hot October day with limited water and definitely didn't plan as well as we should have. Make sure to bring LOTS of water and take breaks as needed. The way down (descent) is easier too and a lot quicker, so be sure to finish the climb to reach the summit! When you get to the top, it's such a beautiful view, you can see so much of Phoenix!My husband and I would do this again! read more

This trail is rated as Extremely Difficult & is Def an Arse Kicker! This short trail includes several steep staircases & literal Rock & Boulder scrambling. The elevation gain was approx 1350 feet. From the top are breathtaking views of the PheoniX area; def worth the exhausting climb up. Climbing down is less strenuous but still treacherous as there are crevaces where your foot can get stuck, slippery gravel & ankle twisting rocks. Bring at least 1 liter of water & stay hydrated; it was 97 in November. People die and are rescued year round from exhaustion and over heating. read more

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After reading some posts online about the difficulty of this hike, I was a bit apprehensive about doing it. We have hiked trails before, but I don't consider myself an "experienced hiker". Also we are in relatively good shape so that helps on the hike. Overall the hike was fun and challenging, but certainly something that can be done even if you are a bit out of shape. There are plenty of great views even if you decide making it to the top isn't going to happen. As for our hike, we Ubered to the Echo trailhead and hiked up that side. After getting to the top, celebrating and resting, we hiked down the Cholla side. There were a couple of spots that we weren't sure which way the trail went on the Cholla side but there are plenty of people coming up and going down that we were able to figure it out. Be aware, this is not just a dirt path. There are rocks to climb over/step on so just take your time and enjoy the experience. read more

This hike is very nice but is not easy in any way. This is a very steep climb that you should absolutely bring water with you. I thought it was going to be more of a nature trail walk but it was definitely not. Nice views though read more

It's a very difficult trail. I saw like 7 and up doing it. But didn't see any kids at the top. It's a very beautiful view when you reach the top Bring at least 3 or more bottles of water. And go early to get a parking spot. Takes about 3 hours to hike in total. read more

Camelback Mountain - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Judging by the foot traffic, this is not a secret jaunt. Nice trails up to a scenic lookout. Many signs prohibiting dogs on the trail are ignored. There is also a bee warning sign. There have been reports of killer bees in the area. [ http://www.al.com/news/index.ssf/2015/06/killer_bees_plague_arizona_in.html ] I don't think you really need to worry. I saw only one sleepy honey bee happily sucking on a tree blossom. I should mention that the bathrooms are clean. The water runs. read more

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Wow! This was my very first hike, and a quite intense first hike at that! My boyfriend and I are are visiting his Mother in Phoenix and she recommended that we all go. What an intoxicating experience! Before I get into the hike, though, I must make a few important recommendations: - Bring LOTS OF WATER! I cannot emphasize this enough. My boyfriend and I had two bottles each and made it up to the top and down with JUST enough. I'd suggest bringing 3 bottles per person. - Get dropped off or take an uber/cab The parking lot at the base of the mountain is INSANELY packed. Thankfully we were with some locals who gave us this vital pointer - Wear comfortable shoes WITH grip There was a couple times myself and my company slipped on the rocks as some are smooth or covered with a light dusting of red soil But let's get back to the hike... We decided to trek up Echo Trail as that is what our company suggested. Definitely not for newbies, ha! 1.14 miles in length with an elevation gain of 1,264 feet, Echo Trail tests not only your endurance and athletic ability, but also your mental game! As I said at the beginning, this was my first hike, but I was DETERMINED to get to the top. It was tough! The challenging terrain, steep incline, gaps between some rocks and the gruelling heat make this Trail what it's known for: "extremely difficult". But if you can make it to the top, it is SO rewarding and totally worth the exhaustion! My advice, get there early to avoid the midday temperatures. And just a heads up, there are gnats at the very top which are a little pesty. I'm hoping that next time they won't be because I'll definitely be back! A well deserved 5 star here! read more

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As a new ~Phoenecian~ I have to say one of the most badass things about the city are that there are legit mountains just hanging out and doing mountain things in the middle of the city. Besides blessing me with a stunning backdrop of a sunset behind the two peaks on my way home from work, it's an awesome, must-do activity to summit if you're here for any extended time. Camelback is the most popular of the Phoenix mountains, and for good reason -- the view at the top is honestly spectacular. You can see Scottsdale (and where the buildings stop abruptly at the 101 opposite the Indian reservation) and Camelback East sprawling out for miles in front of you, and you can even make out the Phoenix downtown skyline. Because it is the most popular, it can get pretty crowded on weekends, so I would go during a weekday or early morning off-season (early or late summer). Do NOT underestimate this hike (Echo Canyon Trail). While it is not the most elevation gain or longest hike, it is difficult. I'm a pretty fit guy who has a lot of hiking experience, and I'll admit I was caught somewhat off-guard. Be prepared for scrambling through some steeper areas and bring much more water than you think you need (I brought 3L in late October when it was cooling down). One last warning: there is free parking (not a lot though) at the Echo Canyon Trailhead that is available from sunrise to sunset. Make sure you leave before sunset or they WILL ticket you -- learn from my experience, the sunset and golden hour at the top were phenomenal, but maybe not worth $90. read more

Camelback Mountain - Golden hour, how aboot that? - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

God damn fam! Coming from a non hiker like myself, the hike was doable....eventually lmao... so many times I thought of just setting up camp.... take your time....it was worth it...I saw people of all ages from toddler to grandmas climbing...parking was horrible... parked at the Omni it's cheap... downside is the walk back to the car...I was this close of getting an Uber. Would I do it again? Nah fam... read more

Camelback Mountain - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

This hike is HARD- they are not lying. Arrive early for parking and be sure to bring lots of water! Beautiful scenery and nice trail!

This is by far one of my favorite places in the Phoenix Valley!!!! Hiking the Cholla Trail is super easy and takes no time. There are several places to take pictures and see the Valley. It gets a bit tougher the higher up the mountain you go. If your running or rucking, there is a great turn around point with a Heliopad. That is a great location for some morning Yoga and meditation. Getting to the tip top of the mountain is a bit of a climb but totally worth it. You can see a 360 degree view of Phoenix! It's stunning!!! The only down side to Cholla Trail is that there is no parking lot and you have to park on the side of the street and walk carry distances to the actual trail head! If your visiting or from the Valley, you MUST do this hike! read more

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When we knew we were going to visiting the Phoenix area for a week, the fella and I immediately started looking in to hikes we could do. Camelback obviously made it to the top of the list pretty quickly! I would say that we (or at least me) are on the experienced end of moderate hikers. Earlier this year we conquered the La Luz trail to the top of Sandia Peak in Albuquerque (8-9 miles with a 3,300+ foot elevation climb) so we were ready and willing. After doing some research, to be on the safe side, we settled on on the Cholla Trail, the easier of the two. They are both rated as extreme, but because we also planned on doing several other hikes we didn't want to over do it. The first (and therefore last) mile are actually fairly easy. It is certainly a climb and your legs will feel it, but it won't seem like an extreme trail! Until....you get to the last quarter/third of mile. It turns into rock climbing! Ok...I might've gotten a little nervous when we got to that point. But my guy was very encouraging, as were several hikers on their way down. Going up is actually the easy part. Coming down is the harder part, I find. Unsteady me just took my time to find the right footing. And wow did I feel accomplished! In all, the hike took us just over 2 hours round trip, including a rest and snack stop at the top of the mountain. This is not the most picturesque hike I have ever taken. The mountain is in the middle of residential neighborhoods, and Phoenix and Scottsdale just spread out flatly around the mountain. You can see Piestawa Peak. But that is about it. It is one of the most challenging hikes I've ever taken. So those are things to keep in mind. AND keep an eye out for trail runners. I personally don't think this is an appropriate trail for running, because it is highly traveled and so steep and rocky. But you know, just watch out! read more

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Fun hike. Definitely one of the harder hikes I have done and I hike 10-15 times a month. Crowded but I did go on Valentine's Day. Bring two bottles of water or a camelback to camelback. Saw a lady carrying a baby up the mountain which was very dumb. Leave little ones under 5 at grandmas. read more

Camelback Mountain - One of the steeper sections of this hike - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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I absolutely love Camelback!! It's very clean! if you are looking for an incredible workout try jogging up that mountain, walking alone you'll get tired if it's your first time. Overall beautiful views everywhere, people are very friendly and the view on top is absolutely amazing! Only thing I would change is near the bathroom the drinking fountain must have a beehive it's been there forever so you get used to them being there. Just telling you that as a warning if you are allergic. Overall amazing mountain! Go Hike It!! You'll Love It! read more

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This is the most rewarding hike you'll have while in the Phoenix valley. Be prepared to spend about 3 hours hiking the trail. It will takes about an hour each direction + breaks + finding parking. It gets ultra busy during the Phoenix's cooler season so just be sure to take your time. read more

This is not an easy hike. People have died for being careless. We finished the 1.14-mile hike in 3.5 hours with plenty of breaks. Tips 1. Start early (5:30AM) so you get down before it gets hot. It's painful to hold onto scorching boulders for leverage--unless you have really good balance and/or good hiking shoes. 2. If you do start early, bring a head-mounted flashlight (a phone isn't optimal, but it can suffice) 3. Bring water--several bottles worth. 4. Finally, be prepared to get on all fours when the hike gets steep. The view at the top is worth it--especially when you get there in time for the sunrise. read more

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Hiking Camelback is typically a great experience. It's somewhat close to where I live and work so it's convenient. The people are generally pretty nice. So if you want a nice local hike you can't go wrong with Camelback Mountain. My only issue to be honest is a lot of the time when the weather gets cooler during the tourist season Camelback Mountain can be a total mob scene. And who really wants a crowd when you're hiking? So if you're going to hike Camelback you probably want to do that early in the morning when there's not that many people and try to stay away during tourist season. read more

Was in town for a week still can make it to the top . ‍ used to live in Arizona and this hike was every other weekend . The neighborhood has changed #Neighborhood.. be careful where you park! neighbors not friendly" understandably" this is a high price ZIP Code so if you park in the wrong place you may get towed. There is a parking lot but space is limited.. Best time to hike the MOUNTAIN is early morning or in the evening beautiful sunset from the top. Enjoy and remember it's a dry heat read more

Camelback Mountain - Here we go - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I had read about Camelback Mountain in my AAA book about a mile hike to scenic overviews of the Phoenix area. But I knew nothing about what I was getting myself into. There are two trails to hike. The hard one and the easy one. Of course, the difficult trail, Echo Canyon was the one I was attempting. Reviews said parking is hard to find early because it's such a popular trail. So I decided to hike 12pm during the day in August, in 108 degree heat. Yes, I brought a jug of water lol. I was so impressed with Camelback Mountain because it's not your typical hike. You have to climb rocks, hold onto hand rails.....it's extreme elevation!!! The sign at the bottom of the mountain said you hike 1.2 miles from 1200 feet elevation to 2700 at the top! I'll just say the hike is not for beginners!!! And they warn you about it. Be prepared! For myself, I'm just a leisurely type of hiker, so this was a surprise but I embraced the challenge. At 12pm, when I hiked the parking lot had cleared out and there weren't too many people on the trail so I took my time. They said it could take 3 hours if you're not an experienced hiker. But, all in all, I loved it. I challenged myself, climbed rocks, stayed at a good pace, stopped for water and embracing the sights...it was one of the memorable stops on my Arizona trip. I got great pics of the Phoenix/Scottsdale suburbs. It was hard work and scary at times but well worth it. read more

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Do this hike while you're visiting! If you like outdoor activities and are in decent shape I would recommend the Echo Trail. What they didn't tell me when I started was that this trail was less of a hike and more of a rock climb. Be prepared to use all fours and if you are taking children or the less physically inclined this may be too difficult. In that case there is another trail on the opposite side of the mountain that may be more appropriate for their fitness levels. I was looking for a fun adventure, a little challenge, with a huge pay off and I found it here on the echo trail leading to the top of Camelback Mountain. There's no doubt I will be sore for days but it was some of the most fun I've had while I've been here. Do not go in the middle of the day when it is hot. Try to go very early and if you get up there by six or seven you can see the sunrise. I did not make it in time for sunrise and by the time I headed back down the last 20 minutes was in the scorching sun. Such an incredible experience I'm so glad I did this!!!! read more

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Camelback is an awesome hike with the most amazing views of the sunsets (don't forget to bring a light if you plan on hiking back after dark!). We hiked up late afternoon to stay for the sunset which was amazing. It's a bit of a strenuous hike for those not used to much physical activity. There can be some challenging rock climbing parts, but once you make it up, it is so worth it! It can be difficult to find parking though, so come at a strategic time. I would bring water also because if you're in AZ, you better know how hot it can get and there's nowhere to refill on the way up or down. read more

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Aside from the fact that is always busy and there are so few parking spots, I have no other complaint about Camelback Mountain's hiking trails. The area is beautiful, the trails are moderate/hard so they offer a nice work out. I have done Cholla and Echo trails multiple times and I will definitely be back over and over again. Cholla trail is a little longer than Echo trail, however it is a bit easier to hike. I would say it takes about 2- 2&1/2 hours round trip. Dogs are not allowed here so leave your pup at home and go have a great time hiking with family and / friends :) read more

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Amazing hike...be fair warned though that it's not for the faint of heart. Should suggest bringing a fanny pack or backpack for water, phone, camera. You WILL need both hands at some part to climb. You will not be disappointed. read more

Camelback Mountain - Amazing - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

OH MY, OW. If you're looking for a great workout that'll really test your endurance and "oh I can totally do this hike" mindset.. THIS hike is the one to do! I'd highly recommend for you to wear hiking shoes because this hike is basically the most rocky, up hill, intense cardio I've done with regular gym shoes.. If you aren't used to these types of hikes, definitely prepare yourself with a lot of climbing. My friend took me on this hike on Sunday somewhat early morning & we did the Echo Trail. Many say that Echo trail is the way to go up then you always have the options of taking an easier route down through Cholla Trail but you'll have to figure out car situations as the trails start/end on different sides. Strongly suggest this hike be on your go-to spots when visiting Scottsdale but definitely be prepared to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the sun isn't scorching hot. read more

Loved hiking camelback even though we didn't make it to the top. Plan to hike about 2 extra miles getting to and from your car. I didn't know that before and was surprised. We went in March and the temperature was perfect. I wouldn't suggest doing this on a hot summer day unless you get an early start. Pack lots of water and be prepared for busy crowds. read more

Camelback Mountain - Hiking group - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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What an incredible place! We took the tougher Echo Canyon route starting at 5:20pm and that gave us plenty of time to make it up, and enjoy the scenery before heading back down. Without a doubt, this is the best view of all around the city and upwards of 40+ miles. If you're visiting the area, it's a great idea to at least accomplish a part of the trail. Round trip, you can make this happen in 1.5-3 hours. It's beautiful and definitely the center of all the action. read more

Ah, remember it well, I do. My first hike up this beaut was with my beau. It was the beginning NFL season, 1994. "Yes, it was still damn hot" is I know what you're thinking. My beau back then, Mateo...he and I squabbled in the (lack of) parking lot (nowadays, the parking is a bit better, but still loads to capacity.) We didn't squabble again until at least eight minutes into the hike - the part where there's now the shiny railing and massive fence. (Wasn't there back then...well, the railing wasn't, at least, just a small railing at the very top of this section.) I was taking my time - as I do. He's charging up ahead and looking back. I get it that some people like to make all hikes/runs a time-based thing, but not me. I'm there for chill and enjoyment. Mateo knows this. He usually moseys himself. What was his rush? The football game, of course! I'd recommend - especially on a virgin hike here - slow down and enjoy it. You'll see people running up past you ...and wait, - 60 min later...that looks like the same guy going up. It is! People do this one (& Piestewa) twice or even thrice in one day's endeavor. If you slow down too, you'll notice some cave-like-looking areas. Indeed, a cave discovered on the north side indicates that it was used as a sacred site by the prehistoric Hohokam Culture before they abandoned the area in the 14th century. (Wikipedia-sourced.) The mountain itself, of course is named for its shape. At a summit of 2,706 ft... https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/camelback-mountain-phoenix?select=QHwht6KKcWL68IkPA170iA ... this hike isn't for the casual tourist, even at a slow pace. It's arduous at times - boulders to navigate and some steep inclines. Wear trail shoes or boots for best traction. I'm glad that dogs are no longer allowed on the trail. Too many have died. I unfortunately had to witness one in distress back before "no dogs" was mandated. Dehydration has a way of sneaking up on its victim. It still surprises me when, the day after this hike...I have sore triceps. Why!? Because I tend to bend into the descent, leveraging myself down with my upper body rather than take the full load on the knees. It's a good full body workout! By all means, know how much water, nutrition etc you need. And of course...sunscreen! It's a beautiful hike, a beautiful vista as you ascend and especially from the summit. read more

Camelback Mountain - Sunset last night on 01.09.17 - Parks Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Such a great hike close to town! We decided to get a short hike in before we were doing some serious mileage the next day and this was great! Awesome views of Phoenix and the desert. We didn't complete the whole thing since we knew the following day would be strenuous and it was hot very early that morning. We did go about 2/3 of the way up the harder path and it was tough. The steps were tall and we saw the top where you need to scramble a little to finish. Next time we are in town, we will definitely make this spot a priority! read more

I thought I would hike with a group a friends for the first time while in Arizona, Camelback Mountain was only 2.9 miles away from the resort we stayed at and it was wonderland! It really was gorgeous, the sunset/sunrise is the most wonderful setting for photos! I actually did not think I could have made it up the rocks as it was so difficult after the first rail, but don't let this scare you! There is a warning once it's about to get hard so you can sit and watch the views from a large seating area to the left before you decide to go up. If you choose to turn around that would be a great point to do so. If you can handle just a little walking then only try the Bobby trail to the right as go in, do not try Cholla or Echo to the left. I was quite in shock to see many people run up and down like it was so easy?! Which means that if you are an experienced hiker or a very fit and active person (which of course, we totally were not) you can do this hike with out an issue! Unforgettably scary moments for a newbie not wearing the correct mountain or climbing shoes (regular Adidas are a NO, NO!! ‍) I almost slipped because I decided to go up without holding the rails and climbed up the right rocky side but I did it! (Most people who are normal, unlike me use the rail as the climb up the hard climb, or like I said before, HIKING SHOES!) TIP, if you are more like me, not so experienced in hiking. *Please use the rail and walk on your side like my fellow companions did during the first climb. I thought that would be my last day if I fell lol! Have fun! I enjoyed it, please take up at least a gallon of water, I only took about 32 Oz of water and it was not enough, luckily I was with others who were prepared. You can not go the entire way up with out being hydrated! read more

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