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Camelback Mountain: A Phoenix Icon

Hike or climb Camelback Mountain for a challenging ascent and panoramic views of the Phoenix metropolitan area. A must-do for outdoor enthusiasts!

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Rising prominently in the Phoenix metropolitan area, Camelback Mountain is a popular hiking and rock climbing destination known for its challenging trails and rewarding panoramic views. Its name comes from its distinctive shape resembling a kneeling camel.

A brief summary to Camelback Mountain

  • Phoenix, Camelback East Village, Arizona, US

Local tips

  • Bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months, as the trails offer little shade.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction for the rocky and uneven terrain.
  • Hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for rattlesnakes, especially during the spring.
  • Check parking restrictions before you go. Parking is limited and strictly enforced.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Phoenix, the Valley Metro bus line 44 offers a direct route to Camelback Mountain. The bus ride takes approximately 21 minutes and costs $2. Disembark at the McDonald Dr & 47th St stop. From there, it's a short walk to either the Echo Canyon or Cholla Trail trailheads.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    A taxi or ride-share from downtown Phoenix to Camelback Mountain typically takes around 17 minutes and costs between $29 and $35. Multiple drop-off areas are available near the Cholla Trailhead. Several taxi services operate in Phoenix, including Yellow Cab Arizona and VIP Taxi.

  • Driving

    From downtown Phoenix, take the AZ 202 Loop West and exit for Washington Street. The drive is approximately 25 minutes and 11 miles. Limited parking is available at both trailheads, and restrictions are strictly enforced. Parking is free. During peak season, parking can be a challenge. As an alternative to parking at the Cholla Trailhead, cars can be parked on the east and west sides of Invergordon Road.

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Discover more about Camelback Mountain

Camelback Mountain, a defining landmark of Phoenix, Arizona, draws hikers and nature enthusiasts from around the globe. The mountain's name is inspired by its unique silhouette, which resembles the hump and head of a kneeling camel. The mountain is located within the Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Recreation Area, nestled between the Arcadia neighborhood of Phoenix and the town of Paradise Valley. Long before recreational hiking, the granite and layered sandstone mountain was used by the Hohokam Indians for sacred affairs. Evidence of this exists in a cave on the north side of the mountain. In January 1879, United States President Rutherford B. Hayes included Camelback Mountain as part of a one million acre reservation for the Salt River Pima and Maricopa American Indian tribes. However, the Arizona Territorial Legislature reversed the decision six months later. Rising to 2,704 feet (824 meters), Camelback Mountain offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for hikers. Two main trails lead to the summit: Echo Canyon Trail and Cholla Trail. Both are rated as Extremely Difficult. Echo Canyon is shorter and steeper, while Cholla is longer with a more gradual incline. The trails involve steep elevation gains, uneven terrain and rock scrambling. Despite the difficulty, the summit provides exceptional 360-degree views of the Valley. Efforts to preserve Camelback Mountain began in the early 20th century. In 1968, the area officially became a Phoenix city park. Today, the mountain's plant life includes cacti species such as saguaro, barrel, hedgehog, and cholla. Smaller animals including cottontail rabbits, lizards, Harris antelope squirrels, birds, and snakes can be encountered.

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