Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: hike (53) trail (40) water (27) hiking (20) challenging (19) parking (17) views (16) view (14) worth (13) time (12)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Kassy M. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing trail and hike to the Camelback Summit! We took our 7&9 yo kids. A couple of things to know: It was late October (not the same as July weather!) And it was a completely beautiful and clear day. Great hiking conditions. We also started around 10am. We brought almost 2L water for each person (kids included) and we only came back with .5-1L each. In summer heat, you would need even more. We packed snacks. We have one kiddo who gets crabby when she is hungry.... We went in knowing we might need to make multiple snack stops. And we did. We had hiking shoes and camel packs but we did not have other hiking gear like gloves. Those are nice to have but we did alright without them. It took us 1hr 20 minutes to get tot the top and about 1 hour to come back down (needed fewer snack stops on the way down). Wear sunscreen, maybe reapply at the summit! We wore hats/sunglasses too so that we could focus on the climb and be protected. There were other kids on the trail too. It's not for all kids, but ours have hiked plenty of trails and are fairly active so this was doable. Our 7yo did ask to turn around a few times but she was so stoked to get to the top when we stuck it out. When you are going up and get to the rail-assist section with the fence, use the left rail. Do not try the middle rail with kids. That was the only time I questioned our decision to take the kids on the hike. It was busy with people coming down so we thought we'd be ok on the middle rail which is significantly harder than the left rail. Going up you have the right of way but feel free to stop and catch your breath 😉 Catch your breath and enjoy the views at the top! Top is trail marker #35. 👍 Last 1/3 is rock climbing/bouldering. It's not a trail!
    16 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jeremy J. 1 year ago on Google
    The Echo Canyon Trailhead is an amazing approach that will take you over boulder fields and can get a little rough at times! Start early and bring tons of water as this path can get hot!! The journey to the top is beautiful and has wonderful views in every direction including an awesome view of Phoenix! I could not recommend the sunrise hike more as the colors continually shift the entire morning as the sun comes up over the ridge. It's one of my favorite hikes in Phoenix and Arizona and is a bucket list hike if you are in the area!
    14 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Leee C. 1 year ago on Google
    This place is so scenic ! You will not regret the hike. It is somewhat challenging so please be prepared with correct shoes, enough water and suitable clothing. It wasn’t too busy or hot when we got there but this was morning. The parking was limited I must say so getting there early is recommended. There are washrooms that are pretty clean at the entry point. They also have a water station to refill your water at the starting point.
    10 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Leah P. 1 year ago on Google
    This hike was breathtaking in so many ways! If you go in the summer, be sure to take lots of water and try to go early morning or late evening. You will also want to have your hands free for the rockier sections. Wear sturdy shoes and watch out for the hot rocks! The views at the top are so so worth it.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Dan B. 1 year ago on Google
    Short but challenging hike with great vistas of the cities. Several sections where most hikers need to use the metal railings to move up/down, up to ~40 degree incline. After those sections there are some rather steep and long boulder climbs. There are a lot of casual hikers on this one, so be prepared to pass, and wait for people as the path narrows. The views are worth it! Bring water as it’s quite strenuous.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Erika F. 11 months ago on Google
    This hike is beautiful and busy. It’s definitely more difficult, so be prepared but amazing views. Didn’t make it to the top but made it to the 1/2 mile and it was so worth it that far!
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ed V. 1 year ago on Google
    Great hike and workout. They have really worked on the trail the past few years to make it safe. The view going up and at the top are incredible. Make sure to bring good shoes and plenty of water. The AZ heat can sneak up on you.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Emily's w. 1 year ago on Google
    We hiked up camel mountain!! It was definitely an intense hike. Much of it was steel uphill and downhill grades. Definitely wear appropriate footwear. Shoes with grippy soles or hiking shoes. Bring plenty of water. Go to the bathroom at the bottom of mountain that is the only spot along the whole hike. Parking fills up quick morning is best for a parking spot and for coolness. All on all we had a great time; be safe and enjoy the view!!
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mac Z. 10 months ago on Google
    Really fun hike but it is challenging for sure. We were visiting and didn’t know what we were getting into, be prepared to scramble and do some very steep climbs and descents. We didn’t make it to the top, we’re both active people but we decided not to push our luck. We still got some great views and had a lot of fun. Bring tons of water and start in the morning.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kolya Y. 1 year ago on Google
    Very challenging hike with steep assent that requires climbing over steps, rocks. Handrails come handy in some of the sections, but be prepared to climb rocks on the way up and jump over them on the way down. Definitely not for hot time of the day, the best for early morning or close to sunset or cooler season.. The views in the way and from the top are rewarding.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tiffany T. 1 year ago on Google
    Hard but worth every sweat effort to hike to the top. Not for the inexperienced. Best if you are moderately in shape. Wear hiking shoes, saw way too many people wearing tennis shoes and sliding from no grip.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Santita 2 years ago on Google
    First time here hiking , and it kicked my butt. It was really a hard hike for me. But views were amazing, also they will give you a ticket if you stay late after sunset. Park ranges were pretty good at letting people know about the ticket 🎟 . Also be careful as you going down, lots of tiny gravel will make slip like it happened to me.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lila C. 11 months ago on Google
    Beautiful trail, a little challenge but it’s worth it! Stunning view at the top! We really enjoyed the hiking here, blue sky, brown mountains, yellow flowers, and cute lizards! It was fun to hike up, rocks along the way, make you feel the natural beauty! Just be careful to hike down!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Kaveh S. 6 months ago on Google
    Fun and somewhat challenging! Depending on your level of fitness, this can be an intermediate or difficult climb. However there are folks who do this three or four times a week! The rails that you can hold on to. In any case, once you reach the top it's all worth the while!!! Spectacular 360 view of the Phoenix Metro!With the steady pace you should be able to each the top within an hour... Have fun 😊😊
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tom B. 2 years ago on Google
    Very good trail in the heart of Phoenix. Pretty difficult for the average person, but plenty of places to rest as well. The other side of camelback (cholla trail) is better for beginners as that one is slightly longer and not as steep. The views are awesome from both sides and definitely a must do trail in the valley.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jasmine Patel AZ R. 2 years ago on Google
    Camelback can be really difficult if you aren’t a seasoned hiker. Go early in the day because the parking lot gets filled up quickly. Such a gratifying experience once you get to the top. Be mindful of others on the trail as it can be really crowded and don’t forget to carry your trash out with you!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Migell W. 2 years ago on Google
    A fantastic hiking trail that has beautiful scenery! The hike can be quite physically demanding, but the summit is very much worth it. It can be quite busy when the weather is good. So busy, that in fact, you cannot even find parking. The staff are also very stringent and will not hesitate twice to write you a ticket. Be sure you carefully plan how long your hike will take if it's in the evening.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bridget “Techmamma” T. 9 months ago on Google
    Very challenging hike took us 3 hours. Bring enough water and snacks. Very easy to take for granted that this is rated an EXTREMELY CHALLENGING HIKE. During our hike we had to assist someone who slipped and fell on the loose gravel. BE CAREFUL. Be sure to bring enough water, snacks, wear proper hiking shoes, and after this hike I will forever have a fist aid kit in my bag. Happy hiking.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 JERRY CURL GET A C. 3 years ago on Google
    Myself, my wife our Pastor, our First Lady and our assembly hike this wonderful trail frequently. We LOVE Echo Canyon Trail. We would recommend it to anyone that loves hiking and a challenge.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rich J. 2 years ago on Google
    Bring more WATER! Watch the turn on the round about, take the second entrance on the South side of the turn. This trail is HARD for most non-hiking people. It is longer than it seems. You have to scramble and hold onto railing at times. That said, it is very fun! The view is 360 and offers an expansive view of the valley. You can take kids up, but maybe 10 years and up. There are several places to stop and turn around if you don't have to see the top, but if you came all this way, just go! Bring WATER! There is a dedicated area for an avid teenager hiker who was overcome by the heat without bringing enough water , so please bring more WATER.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jorge G. 2 years ago on Google
    A bucket list hike for sure. Not easy, but manageable if you're in decent shape. 40oz min water per person, grippy hiking shoes, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses and hat recommended. ◇◇ double black diamond trail. Views along the way and at the top are worth it. Plan on on 3hr round trip if you're an average pace hiker.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Luis C. 2 years ago on Google
    Best trail hike to raise the heart up, also great view of City! Is open at 5:00 am best time to see city lights and the best sunrise. Weekend are busy parking lot is always full, try to be there around 5:00am Happy 😊 Hike
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Steve Z. 10 months ago on Google
    Ok take lots of water and gloves the railings get super hot. The hike is not for the weak it’s pretty intense about half of it rock scrambling. If u have bad knees going down won’t be fun.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gerardo C. 3 years ago on Google
    Love the view it's a challenging mountain but don't give up the view is worth it.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shayne C. 4 years ago on Google
    I went hiking with a friend about a week ago when the weather got nice and I can honestly say that this is the best place that I have flown my drone in all of Phoenix. The views are incredible the entire trail and there are plenty of different spots to pull off and hangout. I highly recommend checking this place out whether you are in the area or are looking to make a trip!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Madysen 4 months ago on Google
    Sunrise to sunset. There is a parking lot and wash station, which is great. I think this trail is more difficult than Cholla. Definitely bring head lamps, proper shoes, and water. Saw a couple mice along the trail and had a mosquito, so bring bug spray. Some more narrow areas which can be difficult during busy times, but I went at 6 am and didn’t notice it getting busy until I was heading back down. Took just under 2 hours total.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jill H. 4 years ago on Google
    It is a great place to explore with nice views of the surrounding area. There is parking along with a bathroom at the bottom and even an opportunity to buy a water if need be. The trail starts off fairly easy with a gradual incline which gets steeper as you go. Then advances to a place where only more adventurous hikers would dare tred.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mylissa K. 10 months ago on Google
    Camelback mountain is a must hike! *If you are allergic to bumble bees, DO NOT hike or bring an Epi Pen* This is the most challenging hike I’ve done. If at any point once you get passed the railing part of the hike you tell yourself it has to get easier…IT DOES NOT. Every part of this hike gets more challenging the entire way up. This route is well known and often hiked so there is always someone on the path. View is worth the hike for sure. There is free parking and restrooms with a fountain at the trail head. Trail is easily followed with markers throughout. If you’re concerned at any part, wait for someone to pass and follow them. It took about 2 hours in and out and can easily be shorter or longer depending on physical health. NO ANIMALS ALLOWED ON THIS TRAIL. A park ranger will be there at sunset and will give you a citation if you are not leaving by then. If you are worried you won’t make it back in time, turn around.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Stephanie H. 4 years ago on Google
    What a great hike! Definitely a bit challenging, there are areas of sheer rock, thank goodness there are handrails to hold onto. Parking can be challenging, but the view at the top is worth all of it. Wear shoes with a good grip, that will make it much safer. The entire hike took me an hour and half, I went at a steady pace and didn't spend much time at the top. I will be making this a weekly workout, it's so much fun and the views are fantastic!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Matthew B. 2 years ago on Google
    ~2hrs round trip - amazing views at the top ! The hike is not for the faint of heart, there is significant verticality and rock climbing that you have to navigate. Not recommended for little kids or those with physical challenges. Parking is challenging - take an Uber

  • 4/5 David A. 3 years ago on Google
    Super busy and challenging

  • 5/5 Theresa S. 3 years ago on Google
    One of my very favorite places.

  • 5/5 Bruce H. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to see Phoenix. If you visit Phoenix this should be on your to-do list.

  • 4/5 Paul K. 3 months ago on Google New
    Fun hike. I have fear of heights so I only made it about halfway. Parking was a real Challenge but we went on Xmas eve in the afternoon. Highly recommend ad long as you aren’t afraid of heights lol.

  • 5/5 Michael C. 2 months ago on Google New
    Wonderful hike. Treat it like a tourist destination. 20 parking spots for 100 cars. Idiot foreigners bringing 4 year olds to a double black diamond hike. Avoid weekends or just know what you are in for. It's an extremely challenging hike.

  • 5/5 Cliff R. 2 months ago on Google New
    If you are in decent shape, have no health issues, and plenty of water, this is a MUST do while in Phoenix. I love hiking and this was both a good challenge to do fairly quickly and a beautiful hike with great views overlooking Phoenix. Best times to hike would be when it’s cooler (morning and evening). However they want you to be back to your car by sunset and you aren’t going to complete this in half an hour so plan accordingly.

  • 5/5 Abudhakir Minal I. 2 years ago on Google
    Echo canyon is one of the must try hiking spot in Phoenix, to make sure we are fit 😀Difficulty level I would say not an easy trail, as it would test your endurance. One good thing about Echo canyon is, I have been here multiple times but it never fails to make me think omg I can’t do this 🤩🤩

  • 4/5 Fast F. 5 months ago on Google
    Beautiful, but totally overrun and crowded. The original trail has been decimated. The newest redesign of the first portion of the trail proved to be a fail deteriorating immediately. Most of us knew this when we first saw it. Then the city's debacle on the Cholla redesign! Still the mtn itself is awesome.

  • 5/5 Jiri K. 6 months ago on Google
    Echo Canyon Trailhead offers astonishing views from the top on the surrounding areas of city Phoenix. The mountain itself is photogenic, too 🙂 As for the difficulty, the trail’s first half is fine and easy going. The second half is super steep with areas that reminds ladder climbing where you need to involve your hands. If you are a lightweight person, it should not be a problem to overcome all the rocks, boulders and steps on the way up. In late September’s evening weather (36 C/97 F) I finished this trail in 45 minutes. Do not forget to take isotonic and energy drinks or powerbar with you. Water is fine, but you need you need to replenish carbohydrates in you body.

  • 5/5 Stephanie E. 11 months ago on Google
    Trailhead parking is fantastic IF you can grab a spot. Go early - and go on a weekday if you can. Have someone drop you off if you can, they are hard to come by. Once parked you are golden - enjoy the hike - it’s amazing . It’s park hike, park climb as you have to use your hands for parts of it, you should be in shape. If you think the first 1/2 mile is difficult , please know it does NOT get easier. Worth the climb to the top 100 percent.

  • 5/5 Benjamin K. 1 year ago on Google
    This trail head is one of a kind for hiking in the valley. The parking lot is open sunrise to sunset/ they have water, bathrooms, handicap parking and a park security is always there. Please bring water and hat. Be safe and watch for snakes. Please only take pictures

  • 5/5 Vivian 6 months ago on Google
    As a relatively active person, I did not find this trail to be extremely difficult, but it's definitely a harder trail. Bring water and watch your footing, especially coming down. Make sure to check that it's not closed due to extreme heat before you go. This is a super fun trail!

  • 2/5 Ava Rose H. 3 years ago on Google
    Wonderful view but the trail was extremely busy at 5am on a Saturday morning, making it a less than pleasant experience for anyone respecting public heath guidelines. The vast majority of the roughly 60-75 hikers we encountered were unmasked and blatantly disregarded social distancing, passing within inches on narrow sections of the trail. Not recommended at this time given the risks of COVID-19.

  • 5/5 Jon C. 3 years ago on Google
    This hike is strenuous so always plan accordingly.

  • 5/5 Mario H. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Very beautiful and very difficult and of course if I go again. I loved (Original) Muy Bonita y muy difícil y claro que si vuelvo a ir. Me encantó

  • 5/5 Olivier E. 3 years ago on Google
    It was awesome. Tough hike bring lots of water

  • 4/5 Jessica F. 3 years ago on Google
    When they said to get there early, it is absolutlet spot on. We pulled in at 5:45, and there were no spots. We were 6th in line to wait

  • 5/5 Katherine S. 3 years ago on Google
    Absolutely gorgeous trail. Unfortunately we didn't make it to the top (our lungs decided it was a no go that day, ha ha). However, the half of the trail we hiked was beautiful and clearly marked. Though there were people there, social distancing was not difficult to maintain.

  • 5/5 Carolee R. 3 years ago on Google
    One of the most challenging trails in the valley❤

  • 2/5 Dejana N. 3 years ago on Google
    Have never been able to find parking here

  • 5/5 Esthela Lopez S. 3 years ago on Google
    Very nice place ❤

  • 5/5 Max B. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place ? ? ❤

  • 5/5 TomDenney A. 3 years ago on Google
    Incredible hike, fantastic view.

  • 5/5 Victoria J. 3 years ago on Google
    Wow, super epic trail. Its clean. Certain amentities were closed due to Covid-19. Really the scenary looks 3D!!! Breathtaking.

  • 5/5 Katie C. 3 years ago on Google
    Must do while in Az! Lots of rocky trail - should be at an advanced fitness level to hike.

  • 5/5 Josh P. 3 years ago on Google
    1.14 miles and ~1300ft elevation gain going up one way. Not an easy hike by any means but definitely doable if you take breaks in between and drink plenty of water (at least 1L of water is recommended). In terms of parking availability, getting here early in the morning is ideal or else you'll be circling around/waiting in line for a spot to open up. From my observations, the latest you should get to the parking area is probably 5:50AM. Lot is usually packed by 6:00AM on weekends and 6:30AM on most weekdays. (My personal ranking on where your hiking time stands amongst other hikers'. Times are strictly going uphill one way.) 1. < 20 mins (i.e. teens) - Elite 2. 20 - 24:59 mins - Very Good 3. 25 - 29:59 mins - Good 4. 30 - 39:59 mins Average 5. > 40 mins - Casual/n00b Anyways, probably the best/most challenging hiking trail in the Phoenix area. You will definitely get a great workout and I highly recommend it!!

  • 5/5 Brian Z. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful, but tough. Based on reviews I figured this would be difficult, but I still under estimated it. I got about a half mile in before I turned back. Partly due to time constraints, but mostly I wasn't prepared. I'd love to make the summit. Maybe another time when I'm in better shape.

  • 5/5 Barry B. 3 years ago on Google
    Easy entry to Camelback Mountain which is the best. Open sunrise to sunset with free entry and free parking when I went.

  • 5/5 Alberto G. 3 years ago on Google
    Great and challenging hike.... bring plenty of water and make sure you are hands free, you will need them both to pull yourself ip

  • 5/5 Thomas J. 3 years ago on Google
    Hiked it in the afternoon. The temperature was 116 degrees. Felt like I was dying. Lots of fun.

  • 5/5 Jennifer W. 3 years ago on Google
    Arrived at the trailhead at 4:30am. It was dark but we didn’t need a headlamp. It started getting light on the way up. You’ll feel like you’re hiking straight up the mountain for an hour. We got to the top right after sunrise. Took the Cholla trail down the mountain.

  • 5/5 jessica g. 3 years ago on Google
    This was an amazing hiking trip. The trail was rated extremely difficult. The first half was a nice vertical ascent. The second half was rock climbing! Hikers need to be in shape to make this trip. Well worth the hike. Tips, bring your water, and arrive early! Parking was limited when we arrived at 7:00.

  • 5/5 Brayan M. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful view

  • 5/5 Paula D. 3 years ago on Google
    It was awesome so it

  • 5/5 SALMAN R. 3 years ago on Google
    Most challenging trailhead of Camelback mountain.

  • 5/5 Dean B. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful and challenging. It's also very dangerous in 105 degree weather. Not for amateurs.

  • 5/5 Todd K. 3 years ago on Google
    What a great time looking forward to doing it again someday

  • 5/5 Jacob R. 3 years ago on Google
    I love climbing to the top of Camelback Mountain it's one of my favorite pastimes if you have not hike to the top I recommend making it a challenge cuz Camelback Mountain is the place to be

  • 5/5 Tom S. 3 years ago on Google
    Parking and restrooms make this trailhead easily accessible. When I went parking was limited. It fills up early in the day. There is a nice overlook about 1/4 mile on the trail, so even if you don't go to the top it is worth the walk.

  • 5/5 Adam H. 3 years ago on Google
    Parking lot is pretty big, has bathrooms. Trail's always busy but a lot of fun.

  • 5/5 Sal A. 3 years ago on Google
    Great views. Just follow the trail and you won't get hurt.

  • 5/5 PAULETTE S. 3 years ago on Google
    Very beautiful but very hot

  • 5/5 Chris K. 3 years ago on Google
    Awesome hike. Not kid friendly. Bring tons of water and DO NOT start later than 8am during the summer. It'll take 2.5 hours+ round trip.

  • 5/5 jaime v. 3 years ago on Google
    Sweet

  • 5/5 fabian s. 3 years ago on Google
    Omg I made it to the top

  • 5/5 Claudia G. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) I love it because it is an intense cardio work !!! (Original) Me encanta porque es un trabajo de cardio intenso !!!

  • 5/5 stu c. 3 years ago on Google
    Fun hike

  • 5/5 Horacio E. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Great (Original) Genial

  • 5/5 George S. 3 years ago on Google
    Climb this often and profit.


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Amenities


  • Activities
    • ✓️ Hiking
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park

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