Echo Canyon Recreation Area: A Desert Hiking Haven
Hike the iconic Echo Canyon Trail to Camelback Mountain's summit for panoramic Phoenix views and a challenging desert adventure.
Echo Canyon Recreation Area, nestled in Phoenix, Arizona, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It's home to the challenging Echo Canyon Trail that leads to the summit of Camelback Mountain, offering panoramic views of the metropolitan area.
A brief summary to Echo Canyon Recreation Area
- 4925 E McDonald Dr, Phoenix, Camelback East Village, Arizona, 85018, US
- +1602-261-8318
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking as the lot fills up quickly.
- Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking shoes due to the steep and rocky terrain.
- Check the weather forecast before you hike, as temperatures can soar, especially during summer.
- Consider hiking during sunrise or sunset for cooler temperatures and stunning views.
- Be prepared for a challenging climb; this trail is not for beginners.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown Phoenix, take the Valley Metro bus route 44 towards Desert Ridge. The bus runs frequently, with a journey time of approximately 21 minutes. Get off at the McDonald Dr & 47th St stop, which is a 7-minute walk (approximately 512 yards) from the Echo Canyon Recreation Area. A single bus fare costs $2.
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Walking
If you're near the Scottsdale Waterfront, you can walk to Echo Canyon Recreation Area. Head east on Camelback Rd for about 1.5 miles, then turn north onto 52nd St and walk until you reach McDonald Dr. Turn right onto McDonald Dr, and Echo Canyon Recreation Area will be on your left at 4925 E McDonald Dr.
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Taxi/Ride-share
From Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) to Echo Canyon Recreation Area will take approximately 17 minutes, covering about 11 miles. The estimated cost for this ride is $30-$40.
Discover more about Echo Canyon Recreation Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
David and Gladys Wright House
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Norman Lykes House
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Toca Madera Scottsdale
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Experience Scottsdale
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Scottsdale Fashion Square
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Scottsdale Waterfront
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1-3.0 Information Point
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Memorial landmark - birthplace of McDaniel's son
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Carlson Creek Vineyard, Scottsdale Tasting Room
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The Housewarming Project
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Wasted Grain
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Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West
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JoyRidesAZ Scottsdale Tours
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Mother and Child - the Donkeys
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The Cowboy
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Unmissable attractions to see
Camelback Mountain
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Phoenix Bat Cave
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Cholla Trailhead Camelback Mountain
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Arizona Falls
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Quartz Ridge Trailhead (#8A) Phoenix Mountain Reserve
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Wonderspaces Arizona
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Arizona Biltmore Golf Club
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Carnival of Illusion
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2701 Piestewa Peak Dr
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Fiesta Bowl Museum
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“Octavius”
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Arizona Canal South Bridge
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Bronze Horse Fountain by Bob Parks
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LDV Winery
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Soleri Bridge
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Essential places to dine
The Henry
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T. Cook's at Royal Palms Resort & Spa
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Chelsea’s Kitchen
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Tarbell's
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Beckett's Table
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Weft & Warp Art Bar + Kitchen
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Zinqué
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Francine restaurant
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Mastro's City Hall
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Fat Ox
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Fired Pie
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Pita Jungle - Fashion Square
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Roaring Fork
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Moxies Scottsdale Restaurant
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Culinary Dropout
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
urbAna
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King & Duck
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Scottsdale Marketplace
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Build-A-Bear Workshop
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Cotton On Scottsdale
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francesca's
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Free People
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Buffalo Boutique
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Regency Modern
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Vintage by Misty
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Scottsdale Trading Post
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Ooo! Outside of Ordinary
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Kokopelli Gifts
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The Little Woody
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Platform 18 at Century Grand
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SEVEN - Caesars Republic Scottsdale
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Verite Lounge
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The Bar
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The Drunk Munk
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Coach House Entertainment
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Scapegoat Beer and Wine
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Pour Decisions Patio & Kitchen
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Living Room
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B&B Cocktail Lounge
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The Beverly on Main
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Second Story Restaurant & Liquor Bar
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Balcony Bar
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Wine Girl
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