Arriving to America’s fifth largest metropolis of Phoenix, Arizona, hiking is not on my vacation agenda. Escaping the endless snow of Canadian winter, the warm sun beckons me to lounge like a lizard near a sparkling swimming pool. Yet on arrival friends and strangers alike greet us with, “Oh you will be hiking Camelback I presume?”
My blank stare and no prior knowledge of camels in the Phoenix area brings on more encouragement.
“To the top of Camelback Mountain!” they explain.
“It’s one of the top things to do when you visit Phoenix. One of the best urban hikes in the world!”
Each person we encounter seems more excited than the next about climbing Camelback mountain. Yet when we invite these same folks to join us at the Camelback trailhead the excuses spurt forth like dust in a sandstorm.
“Oh thank you I’ve already done it.”
“Once is definitely enough.”
“I have to wash my hair.”
Camelback Mountain Arizona
At an elevation of 2,706 feet, the camel-shaped mountain landmarks the northeast horizon of the city of Phoenix. Getting to the summit of the camel’s hump and the extraordinary 360 degree views of surrounding cities of Scottsdale, Phoenix and Paradise Valley is no leisurely stroll in the park.
From our experience the day of hiking Camelback Mountain we hope these tips will help others find their way safely to the red rock summit.
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10 Tips Before Hiking Camelback – Echo Canyon Trail
Get off to the right start on Camelback Mountain
Camelback Mountain Map
With two different Camelback Mountain hike routes, (Echo Canyon trail and Cholla trail) information can be confusing as to where the Camelback hiking begins. The Echo Canyon hiking route is the most direct route up Camelback Mountain and the most popular. You can guess that means it is the most challenging due to the steady climb.
Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon trail parking
Camelback Mountain hike parking – Echo Canyon trail
With one of the most renowned urban hikes in Arizona, let alone the United States, you can expect parking will be a challenge. There is an upper and lower parking lot for the Echo Canyon trail and the entrance for both is at 4925 E McDonald Drive, Phoenix.
Arrive early if you want a parking spot or consider taking a taxi or ride share. Camelback hours are sunrise to sunset. We suggest arriving as close to sunrise as you can manage for both parking at the Camelback trailhead and to avoid the intense heat.
Only street parking is available for the Cholla trail on Camelback.
Stay safe hiking Camelback Mountain
Let someone know where you are going to be and when you expect to return from your Camelback hike. Take a fully charged cell phone with you should you need to call for help. If you do get lost stay where you are.
Rattlesnakes and scorpions are present on Camelback Mountain. We did not see either but advise that you watch where your feet and hands are being placed at all times.
Prepare to be very hot
Get an early start climbing Camelback Mountain. In early morning and late afternoon some of the Camelback mountain Echo trail will be in the shade. The Arizona sun is relentless once it comes around the front face of the slope. Be sure to have a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Hiking in Phoenix means taking water. Lots of water.
At the Camelback trailhead water fountains and restrooms are available. There is no water supply on Camelback mountain once you begin climbing. Bring a back pack to carry at least one litre of water per person. A large sign on the route suggests that once you have consumed half your water supply you should turn around.
Stay on the Echo Canyon Trail
There are numbered sign posts to watch for on the Echo Canyon route. However the boulder strewn climb leaves many choices as to exactly where the path may or may not go.
With the Camelback trail being so popular you can often follow other hikers but be aware they may not be certain of the trail either. Be warned hikers have died trailblazing and wandering off route. Take your time and watch for the sign posts.
The Echo Canyon trail – which way now?
Take high energy snacks
How long does it take to hike Camelback mountain? On line resources and guide books vary in opinion. We hiked to the top of Camelback Mountain in under one hour and consider ourselves relatively fit.
The climb is very steep with an elevation gain of 1264 feet over 1.2 miles. I get hungry just thinking about that hike. Pack some food to be on the safe side and being sure not to leave any garbage on Camelback Mountain.
Flipflops need not apply
A Camelback climb requires stiff-soled and sturdy shoes. Since we always travel with carry on luggage only, I arrive at the Camelback trailhead in a lightweight sneaker. As the uneven rocks, stones and gravel make impressions on my less than happy feet, I long for my hiking shoes.
Are you fit enough?
Reading some guides to hiking Camelback the difficulty level is rated moderate to extreme. The reality is that the Camelback trail is very difficult, with some moderate sections.
In many areas you will be using hands and feet to crawl up and down over boulders. Know your abilities and when to turn around. Rest as you need and don’t feel pressure to go as fast as others.
Camelback hike Arizona – rest as needed
Use caution descending the Camelback mountain trail.
You may feel your lungs burning and your heart pounding from the minute you leave the Camelback mountain trailhead. However coming down, with legs rubbery from the ascent, can be the most dangerous. Take your time and be sure of your foot placement. Watch for the loose gravel that can act like marbles underfoot.
Would you climb Camelback Mountain? Click the video below to see portions of our Camelback hike in Arizona. The view at the end is worth the watch.
Can you recommend other urban hikes?
I have lived here several years and have not climbed it yet! But it may be due to all the other hiking trails closer to my home.
I am so happy you got to visit our amAZing AZ! I sure hope the next time you come we can connect. I just did a blog post of where I was the day I said I could not meet up with you!
I enjoyed your post! Thank you!!
Yes so many incredible places to walk, hike and explore in Arizona. I’ve just read your blog post and it looks so intriguing. I have no doubt we will be back to Arizona and then we can be sure to connect. Maybe we can do Camelback Mountain!
Excellent post with some great recommendations. Can you believe I haven’t hiked Camelback? My excuse is lack of parking. Maybe I can talk my daughter into getting up earlier for the hike. Piestewa Peak (previously named and known by locals as Squaw Peak) is another challenging hike with amazing views. Bring those hiking shoes next time and plan a visit to the Superstition Mountains. You won’t be disappointed 😊
Ingrid the parking definitely is a deterrent. A crack of dawn start is best for this popular one that’s for sure. I appreciate the advice on destinations for next time. Yes sturdier hiking shoes are coming to Arizona in the future! Hope we can connect and perhaps do a hike together.
One way round the parking issue is to take a bicycle. Some hotels offer them free and it’s only a couple of miles pedalling from the tourist centre. Also means you dont have to walk from the parking to the trailhead. And there’s a bike rack at the Cholla trailhead.
That’s an excellent suggestion Mark if one is staying nearby. Definitely eases the parking stress for sure.
I really like the ‘I have to wash my hair’ excuse. It can’t be that hard judging from your tips, and you just have to hike smart. But haven’t hiked Camelback Mountain so what do I know lol. Getting off to the right start is a very useful tip. Usually the most direct route will lead you right where you want to go and so you don’t have to worry about getting lost. If it’s challenging like you said, just go slow. Slow and steady will always still win the race 🙂
That’s exactly right Mabel, slow and steady is the best bet. Some of the boulders one needs to crawl up are quite large so there in comes some of the difficulty. Staying hydrated and being sure not to get off course is vital. The views at the top of Camelback are well worth the effort.
Looks a challenging but beautiful hike! My question is, will you be washing your hair the next time someone asks if you would like to accompany them?!
Lynn that made me chuckle. I’d happily do it again especially if someone felt unsure about trying it. I think you would really enjoy it. There are so many great hiking opportunities in Arizona but if one is in Phoenix this one provides astounding views and a good way to start a day. You can wash your hair after the hike as it will probably be needed. 🙂
Thanks for the tips, Sue! I am thinking to return to AZ and this time I will include the mountain..but I guess I have to be in shape first 🙂
Indah I think you would do fine. Just a slow and steady pace and an early start to avoid the heat. It looks like you have had an incredible road trip. Antelope Canyon in particular looks astounding!
Wonder why I never heard about Camelback mountain. So, thank you, Sue. Considering the heat and no water supply on the mountain, it’s critical one is aware. The climb is indeed very steep, 1264 feet elevation gain over 1.2 miles – Wow! That’ll require a carload of will – but once done it perhaps will give the adventurer a truckload of rejuvenation. Great tips!
Mahesh thank you for your feedback. We found that with taking one’s time and following these tips it is manageable for someone in relatively good condition. Yes it takes a bit of will and perseverance but the feeling of accomplishment and views are well worth the effort.
I knew you couldn’t just loll about enjoying yourself, Sue! You simply had to do a walk for me, didn’t you? I understand. 🙂 🙂
Hi at a certain point one just has to move a bit right? Oh my goodness this would be a good fit for your Monday walks. Would it be all right if I linked to it?
Excellent post, Sue and Dave! It’s good that you outline the difficulties and dangers in your ten tips, Sue, because as we hike up with you, you make it look so easy….and clearly it is not. Climbing rocks for trails is always tricky, and easy to lose the trail, as you pointed out in the photo. Then add on the heat factor, and whoa, this is a challenge. I enjoyed the video a lot, giving us a speedy action opening, upbeat music, then the footing and the trails, and lastly, the fantastic panoramic views. Thanks so much for taking us up Camelback Mountain.
Always happy to have you with us Jet and so appreciate your detailed feedback. I always find it helpful to know what appeals to readers and what helps to make the experience feel real to them. Many thanks for your visit and for hiking Camelback Mountain with us.
“Would you climb Camelback Mountain?”—That depends. Are there snakes? If so, then I’ll have to say no. 😄
Carrie upon reading your comment we got to doing some research straight away. I will be making an addition to the post as yes there are rattlesnakes and apparently even scorpions. We didn’t see any but they are present on Camelback Mountain. Thanks for bringing it up and I will make that exit shortly. Meanwhile perhaps it could’ve the setting of your next medical thriller?
Awesome post, Sue.
Thanks Jim. Always great to be able to share tips we’ve learned along the way especially to keep folks safe while enjoying the great outdoors.
I love your ‘dust in a sandstorm’ metaphor Sue. The video is great for showing just how diverse and rugged this climb is. I wasn’t expecting the crowd at the top. I’d have been slightly disappointed if I got all that way and was surrounded by so many people. On the other hand it’s pretty awesome that so many people got out and did it. That always impresses me.
Other urban walks? I’ve done a few. Ben Nevis comes to mind as does Castle Hill in Townsville here in Queensland. Your photos of Phoenix reminded me of it. All flat and hot as hadies with this little blip on the landscape. Another great post and as always I love to follow your adventures.
Thanks for the kind words Shannyn and sharing your own hike. It is one of the things about an urban hike is the numbers of people. I try to go with ‘isn’t it great that so many people are out getting some exercise?’. Definitely important to get an early start for crowd reasons and to avoid the heat.
Good to see so many people up there. Thank you for the tips, Sue. I can feel the heat… 🙂
Yes definitely lots of people at the top. That was 8:30 in the morning! Happy to share our safety tips and yes the heat came on as we climbed.
Very interesting post. I have never been in Arizona, but when I was young, I ordered to my home a magazine called Arizona Highways. It was full of gorgeous photos and travel stories. I still have them and first magazine are from 1961. Thank You for this post.
The magazines and photos obviously left a very lasting impression. I hope one day you can see the area for yourself. Late March the desert is coming into bloom and it is extra special to see.
Great advice! But ooks like a very challenging hike!
Helen it definitely is a difficult hike but relatively short. I would say best for those who don’t have fear of heights and feel comfortable using hands and feet to climb as needed.
Absolutely great tips and thanks for sharing! bye. Kamila
Happy to Kamila and glad to hear you found the tips helpful. Have a great week!
Hi Sue,
I would love to do this. Always up for a good hike.
My cousin lived in Maricopa for a decade. He shared how the place was a drink a gallon of water daily spot during summer months. 125 F plus, bone dry, legit desert. I drink a few liters daily easy even if cooler conditions. Good note too on descending rubber legs. Quite a tough workout on the way down too. You’re a trooper!
Ryan
Ryan I believe this Canadian would melt into a steaming puddle at 125 degrees. Wowza. Dehydration would be a constant concern, I’m thinking even as one sleeps. Air conditioning must be as necessary as central heating is in Canada! We had taken a week in Mexico prior to imitate sloths after a very wild and busy start to 2018. At a certain point though the adventure and activity addict returns. As always I appreciate your visit and thanks for the tweet as well. Wishing you a great day and one where a gallon of water is not required.
Sue
Back to drinking tons of water Sue; arrived in 101 degree daily Chiang Mai yesterday 😉
Ryan that sounds challenging for sure. I thought I would melt in a puddle in Thailand in January.
Perfect description of hiking Camelback…hiked it with my son-in-law when we first moved here about 4 years ago. Totally different hiking than I was doing in the Pacific Northwest and San Diego. The heat with the intensity of the sun is an element a lot of tourist forget about…not only hot, but very low humidity and you can dehydrate very quickly. Unique hike for sure and the views from the top are spectacular. Great post and hope you had a great time here in Arizona!!
Kirt glad to hear you have had the experience too. We had a few days with friends in Phoenix on our way back from Mexico. No wonder so many Canadians spend the winter here. What astounding weather.
Great tips! How much time did it take for the whole hike?
Joshi we did it in just under one hour and we consider ourselves relatively fit.
Oh my gosh, sounds like there should be “Danger” signs along this trek, along with “Hike at your own risk.” I would love the view when I got to the top, but this looks a bit daunting to me. But the Arizona heat must have felt terrific.
Pam I am happy to report there are all kinds of very large signs through the first section giving specifics of the dangers. One sign even show a photo of a young man who died wandering off trail. Going early in the morning the temperatures were very pleasant. In the heat of summer I would think anything other than the crack of dawn would be very dangerous.
I would love to do this hike, it does look hard. Great tips, taking snack would be a must for me since I get hungry easily and start shaking…not a good thing on an upwards hike. Starting very early is a very good idea, the sun there looks fierce. Loved your video, you made it look easy…strolling along in your sneakers like there is nothing to it 🙂
Here in the UK, I would recommend hiking up Snowdon Mountain…it is a busy mountain for hikers but so worth it 🙂
Gilda thank you for the tip about Snowdon Mountain. I had not heard of it. Is it close to London? Like you I get hungry very quickly so never leave the house without something to eat just in case. Luckily in the video you cant hear me gasping for breath. 🙂
Heat and altitude plus extreme degree of difficulty. Looks tough. Our Cataract Gorge in Launceston is a pretty awesome urban hike 🙂
Oh that’s right Annie and we have done it! At least in Phoenix there isn’t high humidity so that is a small mercy.
This is my FAVORITE hike ever. Are there hikes similar to Camelback in the Phoenix area? I will be there in a couple weeks and am curious as to whether I should do Camelback again, or try another.
Susan I have to admit I don’t know the Phoenix area well so I don’t have much advice. Perhaps you could consider doing the other Camelback route?