Camelback Hike image

Camelback Hike

Hiking area

๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ‘ 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... People often mention hike, views, water, trail, Great, challenging, parking, view, difficult, great,


Address

n 85018, 5700 N Echo Canyon Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85018

Website

phoenix.gov

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (219 reviews)

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Working Hours

  • Tuesday: 5โ€ฏAM to 8โ€ฏPM
  • Wednesday: 5โ€ฏAM to 8โ€ฏPM
  • Thursday: 5โ€ฏAM to 8โ€ฏPM
  • Friday: 5โ€ฏAM to 8โ€ฏPM
  • Saturday: 5โ€ฏAM to 8โ€ฏPM
  • Sunday: 5โ€ฏAM to 8โ€ฏPM
  • Monday: 5โ€ฏAM to 8โ€ฏPM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: hike (57) views (19) water (19) trail (18) Great (14) challenging (12) parking (11) view (11) difficult (10) great (10)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Jenny C. 2 years ago on Google
    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. Iโ€™m from out of town so Iโ€™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 and festive!
    18 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Parker K. 2 years ago on Google
    Could be one of the most challenging hikes in the area. About 1.3 miles to the peak, 1,296 elevation gain. Our hike started at 11AM. I used 64 oz water with temps in low 70's and sunny. Boulder scrambling, slick rock, sand, gravel. Hiking boots recommended. There are runners along the trail. Great views, well worth the effort. The ranger at trailhead was helpful and informative. Leave the africanized honeybees alone!! Several colonies live along the route but don't bother you unless you bother them (according to the ranger). Take plenty of water.
    14 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Alicia R. 2 years ago on Google
    I agree with what some of the others said. We just moved to Arizona and this was our first hike. We did not know anything about it before we did it. It is more like a climb for sure. It is difficult and definitely bring more than two bottles of water.
    9 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Ashley C. 2 years ago on Google
    SUPER DIFFICULT!!! Proceed with caution! This hike is more like a climb. It is not a โ€œcasual hikeโ€ by any means. The views were absolutely beautiful and it was fun and challenging. Coming down was a little scary but it was all worth it. Make sure you have good shoes for hiking with tread, leggings or pants, and I wish I had gloves.
    7 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Terry H. 2 years ago on Google
    This is a good hike but as others mentioned have your hands free you need them a lot. Even some thin gloves would help. I went on a Sunday and it is very crowded. The parking lot fills quickly but I was there at 8:00am and after 5 minutes they let more cars in. Careful of the little rocks on the big rocks.
    6 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Josh W. 7 months ago on Google
    We started our day by trying to hike at the Echo Canyon Trailhead but the parking lot was closed because it was too full. We ended up doing Cholla Trailhead and since it was such a busy Saturday we had to park on the side of the street about a half mile away or so. The hike was more on the moderate side, some spots were pretty rocky and could be challenging but nothing too crazy. You can get to Camelback Mountain from either the Echo Canyon Trailhead or the Cholla Trailhead. Overall a very beautiful hike. Round trip from the car was 3.8 miles and 1,335 feet elevation gain.
    6 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Emily 1 year ago on Google
    I would recommend trail running shoes or hiking boots, as well as some gloves for the scrambling portions. We got to the parking lot at 545 AM and it was already filling up. The hike is considered a double black diamond so you need to be in decent shape for it or at least know your limits and take frequent breaks. There is a lot of scrambling involved so you need to be confident in your ability to do so. The biggest mistakes I saw were people bringing ONE tiny waterbottle for this hike, itโ€™s a big NO. If you reach the halfway point of your water BEFORE you reach the top you need to turn around. I brought 3 liters and it was good for me. Also bring snacks like bananas or granola bars to keep your energy up. OH AND STAY ON THE TRAIL. People have died going off the trail and in general itโ€™s not good for the environment.
    4 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Diana Volleyball A. 8 years ago on Google
    It's a great cardio workout if you have a steady brisk pace up. Don't push too fast going down. That's when you can enjoy the view. Cholla takes me about 30 mins up from trailhead.
    4 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 4/5 Adam F. 8 years ago on Google
    Was a hard climb not for everyone but if you can make it it is all worth it
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Andrew B. 8 years ago on Google
    Great hike with lots of rocky areas to meander around. Supporting shoes are a must as rocks can be jagged. Parts of the hike have guard rails for safety as it can be steep and slippery. Well worth the trip. We went on Sunday and it was extremely crowded, so a week day might be your best bet for a more isolated experience.
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Mitch S. 2 years ago on Google
    Great hike, some very steep canyon sections with rails and boulders. Not for weakened hikers or strollers.
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Alex Soto S. 7 years ago on Google
    This place is very challenging for beginners but is totally worth the view, I recommend this place for anyone and definitely bring water here. It has a bit of everything When it comes to it as a friend as climbing, running, walking and those hugest steps you take and it's pretty steep. So try it out the best time to go is before sunrise that's when it has the least amount of people to but enough to ask for help when needed.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 4/5 Kevin Y. 8 years ago on Google
    Intense hike, just wish it was longer.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Robert L. 4 years ago on Google
    More than just hiking! Places to rock climb and well as rappel. Hiking is easy-ish to intermediate.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Gabriel F. 3 years ago on Google
    This hike is to the point. Small amount of scaling and good balance is needed. Not for most younger kids. Only 5 catwalks and the rest is incline. The end result is a panoramic that is to die for.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Michelle H. 4 years ago on Google
    Great views
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Linda P. 8 years ago on Google
    I loved this trail. The intensity was unexpectedly high , perfect length and provided a variety of challenges throughout. It was well manicured, clean, marked clearly and easily accessible from major roads with a nice parking area. Restroom facilities were adequate with a water fountain. I'll be back.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Erin O. 3 years ago on Google
    Such a challenging, yet rewarding hike! I did it for the first time today, and it took about an hour and 40 minutes. There were tons of hikers, so if youโ€™re not feeling comfortable being in close contact with others right now with COVID, probably this isnโ€™t a good hike for you. But, it was so much fun! Bring lots of water, good shoes, snacks, patience for others, and a friend to cheer you on & encourage you! โ›ฐ๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿป
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Jennifer 3 years ago on Google
    A beautiful view from the top. Getting there took us about 2 hours to the peak. Beginning part is easy to manage for almost everyone, 2nd part is a bit more challenging. Worth every minute. Be sure to bring plenty of water.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Chad W. 8 years ago on Google
    Sweet hike that will reward you with 360 degree view of Scottsdale. A must do for any outdoor lover. Try getting to the top without using your hands. Make for a fun challenge.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Jeff N. 2 years ago on Google
    This is the trailhead for the hike up Camelback Mountain ๐Ÿ”๏ธ. The hike is doable for most people but there are difficult sections where it becomes quite steep and is climbing from bolder to bolder. While the climb is challenging, the most difficult thing is finding a parking spot!
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Dustin S. 8 years ago on Google
    Tough hike, go early early if it's summer, this is no joke, bring water. Great workout thought and view, recommend.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Asita J. 1 year ago on Google
    It was a challenging but a very fun hike, there were parts where had to rely on a bar for support, gorgeous view of entire city and did it in late March with some amazing wildflowers.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 4/5 Alisharoz M. 1 year ago on Google
    Very busy and sometimes hard to find parking when you visit but moderate to steep trail depending on your experience. Love the setting and the surrounding views of luxury homes!
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Brandon M. 8 years ago on Google
    Great trail. We were from out of town and wanted to check it out. We had an amazing time. Santa was at the top handing out candy cane's
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Charles L. 8 years ago on Google
    A little crowded, but a great short and rigorous hike with hugely varied terrain that makes you use all your limbs. The payoff is a spectacular 360 degree view of greater Phoenix. Not for novice hikers.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Shamseer A. 3 years ago on Google
    We enjoyed the hike. There are few false summits and steep , rocks. Will go again. Don't be rush unless you are very experienced.

  • 5/5 Prachi M. 3 years ago on Google
    It is a difficult and a very fun trail! I recommend visiting in early hours to avoid crowd. Takes about 3 hours on average to complete, with some breathtaking views at the summit as well as on the route.

  • 5/5 james e. 2 years ago on Google
    I hike this mountain four times a week and capture some breathtaking views of the city and sunrises. It's great for training and a pretty gritty hike if you're not prepared for the challenge. Wear durable footwear and bring at least a liter or two of water.

  • 5/5 Trevor D. 3 years ago on Google
    Great hiking trails. Different levels of difficulty. Awesome views!

  • 5/5 L J. 3 months ago on Google New
    This hike was harder than Half Dome. I didnโ€™t know what scrambling was until this hike. You will be crawling up steep rocks, using your hands, for an hour and a half and then scooting down, trying not to succumb to gravity to get back. We started at Echo. No dogs allowed. I wish I packed a banana or a protein bar to eat at the top.

  • 5/5 AVERY M. 3 years ago on Google
    Very difficult it was raining so it was extremely slick but still a great hike great views I thought Squaw Peak was difficult but this one has it beat

  • 5/5 99wayn3 1 year ago on Google
    By far the most difficult hike/climb Iโ€™ve encountered .. The first time was last Sunday and I wasnโ€™t expecting the amount of challenge I had stumbled into ๐Ÿ˜‚๐Ÿคท๐Ÿพโ€โ™‚๏ธ. I stopped more than a few times bf I hit the top. This past Saturday I had to do better, took me 58 mins to the top and 35 mins down. โœ….. Great views throughout .

  • 5/5 Luis Adrian Salazar L. 1 year ago on Google
    Awesome hike for everyone that has some hiking experience. Be careful with the slippy rocks. Get some hiking shoes and get some water (40oz.), it runs out as you go up and you will need more on the descending.

  • 4/5 Mitchell T. 10 months ago on Google
    Beautiful place kinda just outside town with options for a nice day hike or just some quick in town views. Just be prepared that you won't be the only one on the trail.

  • 5/5 Julia B. 1 year ago on Google
    Really great hike, gets busy fast which slows down the pace but definitely a hike worth checking out!

  • 5/5 Tyler B. 1 year ago on Google
    A worthwhile hike for the awesome view and the experience but make sure you going during the right time and bring plenty of water!

  • 5/5 Bobby B. 4 years ago on Google
    Very good workout, great views, just not my kinda hike coming from an old trail runner. Very bouldery, lots of climbing. This is not a hike for the average day hiker. I love the steep elevation for great cardio and if you're into mountain climbing, you can't get any better than this echo canyon trail. Bring plenty of water, sun screen and gloves if you have sensitive hands. Stay on the trail, they have signs posted of people that have fallen to their death. Be safe and enjoy!

  • 5/5 Mark J. 4 years ago on Google
    Very cool hike! Great views. Great if you want somewhat of a challenging shorter hike near town. Highly recommend it.

  • 5/5 YuanJen L. 3 years ago on Google
    Ranger will ticket cars in the parking lot after sunset (actual time vary)

  • 5/5 Nick S. 4 years ago on Google
    Awesome views and extremely tough hike...be careful if youโ€™re taking kids under 10. Go in morning

  • 5/5 Crystal W. 4 years ago on Google
    BRILLIANT Hike! Echo trail is a fantastic workout full of fun varying terrain forcing excellent cardio. Beautiful views of the city

  • 5/5 Paul W. 4 years ago on Google
    Stunning views, nice climb and worth every minute of it.

  • 5/5 Robert B. 4 years ago on Google
    the trails are nice it was a nice cool day for hiking

  • 5/5 david r. 4 years ago on Google
    Great hike. Stunning views.

  • 5/5 Amyn L. 6 years ago on Google
    A really challenging hike but the views are spectacular.

  • 5/5 Laura 4 years ago on Google
    Amazing hike! Canโ€™t wait to go again!

  • 5/5 Davis H. 3 years ago on Google
    My absolute favorite trail

  • 5/5 Mel J. 4 years ago on Google
    Outstanding

  • 5/5 Charlotte W. 4 years ago on Google
    Best hike

  • 5/5 Trisha G. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful hike with multiple trails. The parking lot is a bit small. It might be prudent to car pool during hinpeak hiking season and on weekend.

  • 5/5 Jogo B. 4 years ago on Google
    Great hike but it is very difficult to climb to summit.

  • 5/5 Bill H. 4 years ago on Google
    One of my favorite hikes in Phoenix

  • 5/5 Alix S. 4 years ago on Google
    Great trail for a quick day hike! Very busy trail, but since it is so open you have room to spread out. Definitely be ready to use your hands going up and coming down. Bring water. Nice views along the way up and from the top. Took me 45 min going up and 35 coming down.

  • 5/5 JoSe V. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice

  • 5/5 Cleo W. 4 years ago on Google
    Wow

  • 5/5 Joseph W. 4 years ago on Google
    Camelback is such a great hike. Its easy at parts and presents itself to be more difficult at others. My wife and are new to the hiking scene and this trail by far has to be my favorite. It switches from trails, to stairs, to climbing, and back again. The view from the summit as absolutely amazing and thus hike definitely gives you a complete body workout. You have a couple of pokestops and gyms that you can play on. Bathrooms at the beginning of the trail and a nice amount of people hike it on the regular. Its not to many that its crowded, and not to little that you should worry that know will notice if you get hurt. Hike it and enjoy.

  • 5/5 Corina F. 4 years ago on Google
    Very busy hard to find parking

  • 5/5 Chase W. 4 years ago on Google
    Tons of fun..

  • 5/5 Eduardo P. 4 years ago on Google
    Intense!

  • 5/5 April 4 years ago on Google
    The trail is difficult but quite interesting

  • 5/5 Kolayah M. 4 years ago on Google
    The Echo Hike (Extreme Difficultly rated) was one of the most incredible hikes Iโ€™ve done, and the view was astounding! Iโ€™d highly recommend this hike. It was quite challenging, it took me about an hour and a half with short breaks to get to the time. About an hour to hike down it. Iโ€™d recommend starting the hike in the morning. I brought 50 oz of water and it was more than plenty. Wearing long breathable pants is recommended.

  • 4/5 Dan L. 4 years ago on Google
    Easy to get to. Beautiful

  • 5/5 Brianna D. 4 years ago on Google
    I was definatley winded but the view at the top is unmatched!

  • 5/5 Stacey 4 years ago on Google
    Easy to find. Parking. Great place for pictures. But it's got here so being your water people!!! But still and greet some great pictures!


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