Camelback Mountain Hike: Echo Canyon Trail

While visiting family in Phoenix, my kids and I wanted to take a hike. I’d read articles about “Things to do in Phoenix” and often stumbled upon the hike to Camelback Mountain. So we made it a point to hike to the top one morning.

It was a tough hike. More of a bouldering climb in many spots along the trail. But it’s totally worth it. So if you’re looking for something to do with your family in Phoenix, here’s your guide to hiking Camelback Mountain.

Know Before You Hike Camelback Mountain

Before writing about the “What to Expect” portion of the article, I need to stress a few things about hiking in Arizona.

First: It’s BLAZING HOT! You need to have plenty of water with you for each hiker. At the Echo Canyon Trailhead, there are numerous warning signs about water and heat. Arizona’s temperature can get 110-degrees mid-day. That’s not when you want to be out hiking. Especially if you don’t have adequate water with you.

Second, you’ll want to wear a hat. There isn’t a lot of shade along the trail. Sunscreen is also a must. Unless you’re okay looking and feeling like fried chicken.

Now that I’ve stressed how important water and the preparing for the heat are, let’s continue with the article.

Two Hiking Options: Cholla or Echo Canyon Trailhead

The hike to the top of Camelback can be accessed from two different trailheads: Cholla or Echo Canyon. Regardless of the starting point you choose, get there early. Parking at either location fills up quickly, especially during the summer months.

I’ve been told that if you aren’t there by 7:30 a.m., parking may become an issue. At Echo Canyon trailhead, there is no on-street parking. So when the lot’s full, you may need to head over to the Cholla trailhead.

Echo Canyon Trail is only 1.25 miles each way. However, you ascend about 1,000 feet from trailhead to peak. That’s a lot of elevation. It means there are several steep parts of the trail. We took Echo Canyon trail, so I’ll share a little more about that shortly.

Cholla Trail isn’t quite as steep. While you ascend a similar distance, you do so over 1.5 miles instead. But it’s still a workout.

If you’re afraid of heights, then I would think twice before taking either of these hikes.

What to Expect Along Echo Canyon Trail to Camelback Mountain

The trail from Echo Canyon Trailhead starts out like any typical trail. The well-worn trail has a few switchbacks. After hiking for a pretty short period of time, you get to a little area of the trail with some additional warnings about having adequate water.

In fact, there’s a sign there warning people of other dangers. Stay on the trail. One young man was playing off the trail and ended up falling to his death.

After heeding that danger, you begin the double black diamond portion of the Echo Canyon Trail. Are you ready?

The Climb Up Camelback Mountain – Literally!

The first experience you get with the uphill climb is a set of stairs. The steep stairs are sandwiched between a chainlink fence and a rock wall. Be mindful of the rock wall and don’t hit your head on the overhangs.

The next portion of the trail has you holding a metal railing as you climb your way up. Having long legs is helpful, too. So not sure this hike is for young kids.

After two different sections with the handrail, the uphill climbs become a true climb. We made our way up and over and around large boulders. The gravel on the rocks can make it slippery. Be careful as you step. A few hikers told us there’s an average of three deaths per year along this trail – either from falls or heat.

Don’t give up on the hike. You can make it up to the top. From the peak, you’re able to get a 360-degree view of the Phoenix valley. You can see the Sky Harbor Airport, downtown Phoenix, and all the other nearby cities: Scottsdale, Mesa, Gilbert, San Tan Valley, etc.

After enjoying the views, start your way down. Don’t rush it. Take your time so you don’t slip. If needed, hike down backwards so you can keep yourself lower to the ground and control your footing better.

When you reach the trailhead, breath a sigh of relief and feel the sense of accomplishment. Then be sure to drink water and replenish your energy with a good meal. We were all beat!

Enjoy hiking? Get more ideas here for your next family vacation or adventure.

The Details

Address: Find Echo Canyon Trailhead or Cholla Trailhead on Google Maps

Cost: There is no cost to hike. But make sure you’re parked in a legal parking spot so you don’t have to pay a parking ticket or for towing.

Hours: The trailheads are only accessible from sunrise to sunset. Plan on anywhere from 1-3 hours for the hike.

Website: I didn’t find an official website, but this one was helpful: http://climbcamelback.comP

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