
moderate
2–2.5 hours
Light-to-moderate fitness; able to stand and walk on uneven ground for up to an hour and pedal with intermittent effort on an e-bike.
Cover ground on an electric bike, then stretch your legs on the Cholla Trail of Camelback Mountain. This 2.5-hour guided loop blends easy hiking with quiet neighborhoods, canal-side riding, and skyline views of Scottsdale.
The sun is already high and warm when the guide clips a helmet onto the first rider; the Greenbelt bike path glints like a thin river of light as the group sets off. E-bikes hum beneath you, making the Phoenix sprawl feel suddenly compact — a few effortless pedal strokes and you’re past canals and manicured fairways, the suburban hush giving way to the rugged shoulder of Camelback Mountain. At the Cholla Trailhead the bikes are parked, water bottles topped up, and the hike begins: short, rocky, and honest, with the mountain itself seeming to watch every step.

Book a morning slot — temperatures in summer spike quickly and morning light is best for views and photos.
Guides provide bottled water, but carry a 1–2L refillable reservoir if you sweat heavily.
Cholla Trail has loose rock and short scramble sections — sturdy closed-toe shoes improve comfort and safety.
Familiarize yourself with pedal-assist before the tour; it makes climbing and traffic crossings easier.
Camelback Mountain's rock formations are remnants of ancient volcanic activity and were later a landmark around which Scottsdale and Paradise Valley developed.
Stay on designated trails to protect fragile desert soils and native plants; carry out trash and minimize single-use plastics where possible.
Keeps you hydrated during rides and the desert hike; refillable options reduce plastic waste.
summer specific
Closed-toe shoes with tread make the rocky Cholla Trail safer and more comfortable.
The desert sun is intense even on cooler days; protect skin and eyes for the entire tour.
summer specific
Morning can be cool, but activity heats you up quickly — breathable layers balance comfort and sun protection.
spring specific