Summit the Sonoran: A Day on Camelback Mountain
Short, steep, and spectacular—how to summit Phoenix’s most iconic peak with confidence
At first light the mountain looks like a sleeping beast—red-brown ribs of granite rising from the scrub, shoulder-to-shoulder with luxury homes and golf courses. You thread a narrow trailhead parking lot, shoulder your pack, and within minutes the city’s hum drops away. The Sonoran Desert announces itself in sharp, tactile ways: brittle mesquite, the sing of cicadas, and a warm wind that seems to push you up the slope. Camelback Mountain rewards the effort with a view so immediate and broad it flattens time—scrubland and tile roofs below, distant mesas like folded paper, and the valley’s grid glowing when the sun clears the eastern horizon.
Trail Wisdom
Start at dawn
Temperatures are lowest and crowds smallest if you begin before sunrise; aim to be off the summit by mid-morning in summer.
Hydrate smarter
Carry at least 1.5–2 liters per person for a short hike; electrolyte snacks or a sports drink help replace salts lost in dry heat.
Choose your route
Echo Canyon is steeper and more technical; Cholla is longer and steadier—pick the route that matches your fitness and comfort with exposure.
Wear trail shoes
Sturdy shoes with good traction are crucial for scrambling on granite and navigating loose scree on descent.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The quieter mid-week sunrise views from the Cholla saddle
- •Arcadia’s coffee shops for a post-hike brunch and local atmosphere
Wildlife
cactus wren, desert cottontail (rabbit)
Conservation Note
Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion and cactus damage; pack out all trash and avoid disturbing wildlife to protect this fragile desert ecosystem.
Camelback is part of the Sonoran Desert landscape long traversed by Indigenous peoples; the mountain’s shape has been a navigation landmark for centuries.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: wildflower blooms, mild temps, photography at golden hour
Challenges: crowds on weekends, sporadic pollen, occasional high winds
Spring balances mild temperatures and desert blooms—ideal for hikers wanting good conditions and dramatic photos, but expect more weekend traffic.
summer
Best for: early-morning sunrises, training in heat, fewer crowds at dawn
Challenges: extreme heat, risk of dehydration, trail closures if temperatures spike
Summer is hot and unforgiving; only attempt very early starts, carry extra water, and plan for heat-related risks.
fall
Best for: stable hiking weather, clear skies, post-monsoon green-up
Challenges: variable temperatures between morning and afternoon, shorter days
Fall is one of the best seasons—cool mornings and pleasant afternoons make for great climbing windows and clearer summit views.
winter
Best for: crisp air and long views, comfortable daytime hiking, less sweat and cooling needs
Challenges: cold mornings, occasional icy rock after rare freezes, short daylight hours
Winter brings cool, clear days that are perfect for hiking—dress in layers for chilly starts and shorter daylight.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
2L hydration reservoir or 2 x 1L bottlesEssential
Plenty of water to prevent dehydration in dry desert conditions.
Trail shoes with good gripEssential
Sturdy traction protects your feet on granite slabs and loose scree.
Sun protection (hat, SPF 30+ sunscreen, sunglasses)Essential
The desert sun is intense even on cool days—protect skin and eyes.
Lightweight insulated layer
Mornings can be cold; layer up and shed as the day warms.
Common Questions
How long does it take to hike Camelback Mountain?
Most hikers take 2–3 hours round-trip depending on route, fitness, and how long you linger at the summit for photos.
Which trail is harder: Echo Canyon or Cholla?
Echo Canyon is steeper and involves more exposed scrambling; Cholla is longer but generally less technical—choose Echo for a short, strenuous climb and Cholla for a steadier ascent.
Is Camelback Mountain safe for beginners?
Beginners can do Cholla with caution, but should avoid Echo Canyon unless comfortable with steep, exposed terrain and have appropriate footwear and water.
Are dogs allowed on the trails?
Dogs are not recommended on Echo Canyon due to steep sections; local rules vary, so check signage at the trailhead and carry water for pets if allowed.
Can I book a guided hike?
Yes—local operators like Mad Desert Trekking offer guided summit hikes that include water, sunscreen, snacks, and certified guides for added safety and local insight.
When is the best time of day to hike?
Early morning—before or around sunrise—is best to avoid heat and crowds; late afternoon can work in cooler months but watch daylight and temperature drops.
What to Pack
Water (2 liters), sun protection (hat + sunscreen), sturdy trail shoes, electrolyte snacks—keeps you hydrated, protected, stable, and energized.
Did You Know
Camelback Mountain’s name comes from the mountain’s profile, which local people early in Phoenix’s development likened to the hump of a kneeling camel; the peak’s elevation is 2,704 feet above sea level.
Quick Travel Tips
Start early to avoid crowds; park at designated lots to avoid towing; bring cash/card for post-hike cafes in Arcadia; hire a guide if you’re unfamiliar with desert conditions.
Local Flavor
Finish a hike with Sonoran-style breakfast—try huevos rancheros and a strong Mexican coffee in Arcadia or Old Town Scottsdale; local shops often sell prickly pear jams and salsas made from desert fruit.
Logistics Snapshot
Trailheads at Echo Canyon and Cholla; free but limited parking; early start advised; bring 1.5–2L water; avoid summer midday heat; guided options available; restroom access at some nearby parks.
Sustainability Note
Stick to established trails, pack out all waste, and respect posted signage—high foot traffic threatens desert soil and cacti; consider a guided tour that donates to local conservation programs.