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Camelback Mountain

4925 E McDonald Dr · Phoenix, AZ

Why you should go…

The Echo Canyon and Cholla trails climb roughly 1,300 feet to the summit of this landmark, making it one of the most photographed peaks in the Valley of the Sun. Trails are steep and exposed, so an early start is essential in warmer months.

  • #hiking
  • #mountain
  • #views
  • #desert

Good to know

General sport & outdoor guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Weather calls the shots

    Check the forecast the morning of and keep an indoor backup in your pocket for the day it turns.

  • Shoes, water, sun cover

    The three things that decide whether you last the whole outing or cut it short after an hour.

  • Parking and launches fill early

    On a nice weekend, lots and trailheads are often full by mid-morning.

  • Daylight shrinks in shoulder season

    Spring and fall visits need an earlier start than the same trip in July.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Camelback Mountain, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Museums
    History Buff

    Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West

    $25–$50

    Smithsonian affiliate museum in Old Town Scottsdale devoted to Western American art, history and culture.

    2.3 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums

  • Shopping
    Local Gem

    Old Town Scottsdale

    Free

    Western-themed storefronts, art galleries, and patio bars packed into a walkable historic district.

    2.4 mi awaySwitch it up: Shopping

  • Nightlife
    Quirky Fun

    Rusty Spur Saloon

    Free

    A former saddle shop turned honky-tonk, with live country music and sawdust on the floor every night.

    2.4 mi awaySwitch it up: Nightlife

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Iconic

    Desert Botanical Garden

    $25–$50

    140 acres of cactus, wildflowers, and desert trails in the heart of Papago Park.

    3.4 mi awayMore like this

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Local Gem

    Papago Park (Hole-in-the-Rock)

    Free

    Red sandstone buttes and an easy scramble up to a natural window with views over the whole valley.

    3.6 mi awayMore like this

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Outdoor Adventure

    South Mountain Park and Preserve

    Free

    One of the largest municipal parks in the country, laced with more than 50 miles of desert trails.

    14 mi awayMore like this