Camelback Mountain – Phoenix Arizona

Camelback Mountain Arizona

In 2016, I was in Phoenix Arizona on business with a few of my British friends. Always looking for the chance to head into the mountains, we decided not to let the opportunity to climb Camelback Mountain pass by. My first sight of the mountain was truly awesome. Resembling the hump and head of a kneeling camel, Camelback Mountain, stood tall and defiant at an elevation of 2,707 feet (825 meters), amidst the landscapes of the Phoenix desert. Located in the Camelback Mountain Recreational Area, between Phoenix, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, the summit can be accessed via two routes: the Cholla Trail and Echo Canyon Trail. I had done my homework and discovered that both routes were difficult and challenging. While the Echo Canyon trail is steeper the Cholla trail is longer. Both hiking trails have dirt, gravel, boulders and some handrail sections for assistance.

Cholla Camelback Mountain Trail

We decided to take the Cholla Trail which is approximately 2.6 miles (4.2 kilometers) to the summit and back. This Camelback Mountain hike is listed as strenuous because you encounter a large elevation gain (~1,300 feet / 396 meters) in a short period of time. In addition, depending on the time of the year you could be dealing with extreme heat. In the summer, temperatures can reach over 100 degrees F (38 degrees Celsius), so bring plenty of water!

It was a beautiful Friday afternoon with not a cloud in the sky and a great day for a hike. The Cholla Trail begins from a road in a residential area. Parking is limited so we took an Uber from our hotel. The trail can get very crowded as it is one of the more popular activities in the Phoenix area, so if your schedule permits it is best to hiking in the morning before the crowds.

Camelback Mountain Hiking

From the Cholla Trailhead, follow the blue blazes along the route. Though this trail is well maintained, it is very rocky and steep. I would not advise children or people who have issues with heights to take it. It is important to remember that no matter what, hikers follow the trail signs and remain on the marked route during your ascent and not wander off the trail. There are deaths every year on Camelback Mountain and the hike should not be taken lightly. Occasionally, you will see brown trail signs with directional arrows in rocky areas. Follow these signs as they continue to direct you along the Cholla trail.   The first mile or so hiking Camelback Mountain is pretty straightforward as you ascend steadily up the trail. After a few short rock climbs, you reach ‘the saddle’ of the mountain and things begin to change.

The final leg of the ascent to the summit requires a steep rock scramble along a ridge, with drops on both sides. The route can get a little confusing at this point so be careful and follow the markers and signs. Once you reach the peak, you will be rewarded with magnificent views of the Phoenix Valley. There is a blue trail marker signifying the true summit. Take a few a minutes to rest, hydrate, and take pictures at the summit. When you are ready for your descent it is important that you take it slowly and carefully. Often times, the descent can be more difficult than an ascent.

Camelback Hiking Potential Hazards

You may not encounter any large animals on the trail except for birds, lizards and snakes. Rattlesnakes are very common in the area and the best precaution is to stay calm and they should go away. Before sitting down on any rock look carefully and in case you hear their distinctive warning rattle take the advice offered above. Another danger on the trail which has unfortunately caused issues in the past is bees. If encountered, I would suggest not to swat them but just to cover you head and eyes as much as you can to avoid contact.

I would advise anyone visiting Phoenix who has the adventure bug to climb Camelback Mt. It is one of the better short day hikes that I have done and I am already looking forward to my next visit!

We look forward to seeing you on the trail.

Cheers,
Jeff

Jeff Bonaldi
Founder & CEO
The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi
Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE.

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