Hiking Camelback Mountain is a right to passage in the Phoenix area. Here are my 11 tips for hiking Camelback Mountain in Phoenix Arizona
1.) Know the Seasons
Knowing the Arizona seasons is one of the most important tips for hiking camelback mountains. Before visiting Arizona and attempting this hike, it’s important to take the weather into consideration. Arizona summers are brutal thus hiking a strenuous mountain may not be the best. You may want to hike Camelback Mountain in late fall to early spring when the weather is cooler.
2.) Start Early
On average, it takes hikers 1.5-3 hours to complete this hike. I recommend starting as soon as there is daylight when it is the coolest. By the time you are done, you will be ready for a nice cup of coffee and breakfast at your local resort.
3.) Know Your Fitness Level
This is a tough hike, no doubt about it so it is important to be honest with yourself. Do you have the physical stamina to complete a hike Camelback Mountain? Can you hike continuously for the 45-minute? You must keep in mind that once you go up the mountain, you have to go back down. During my hike, there were many hikers struggling with their climb. Some continued on after a break, others re-evaluated and turned back.
4.) Choose the Right Trail
There are two trails on Camelback Mountain; the Echo Canyon and Cholla Trail. The Echo Canyon Trail is 1.14 miles while the Cholla Trail is 1.4 miles. While both trails are challenging, the Echo Canyon trail is clearly the harder of the two. Understanding your fitness level is key to success.
5.) Bring Lots of Water
Bring at least two bottles of water per person. It is important to stay hydrated on this trail due to the strenuous nature and the heat. I also recommend carrying your water in a pack as you most likely will need your hands free as you ascend and descend the mountain.
6.) Dress Appropriately
Wear sturdy shoes. The boulders are slick and without appropriate shoes, you can easily slip and injure yourself. Trust me, you want your feet planted firmly on the ground/ boulders. It is also important to dress for the weather. It may be cool in the morning but depending on when you start your hike and how long it takes you, it can quickly warm up. Make sure you also apply sunblock and wear a hat. ( FYI: I got my first ever true sunburn on this mountain. Didn’t use sunblock ( usually don’t) and burned the mess out of my shoulders.).
7.) Watch for Wildlife
Many websites noted that visitors can catch glimpses of foxes, coyotes, raccoons, and maybe a rattle snack. I thankfully didn’t see any wildlife during my hike. Be smart if you do. Do not approach. Do not feed.
Oh, the killer bees. There is a bee problem on the mountain. There are stories of swarms of bees attacking hikers. The city kills hives that are near hiking trails but leaves hives that are off the trail alone. My hiking partner got stung by a bee in the parking lot after we completed the hike and were heading to our Uber. If you are severely allergic to bees, make sure to bring your epi-pen.
8.) Trail Etiquette
Remember your trail etiquette. Hikers going up the mountain have the right-away, so please give it to them if they need it. Also remember it is not a race. Pass others when needed but do so in a safe manner.
9.) Rest and Enjoy the Views
During your hike, there will be moments where you need a break. Take a break and catch your breath. In those moments, take the time to enjoy the views around you. Focus on the moment. Feel the process. Remember those moments.
10.)Take Your Time on Your Way Down
As stated above, the rocks are worn and slippery. Take your time going down. I recommend going down on your butt in some sections, I know I did. ( Just like a toddler going down the stairs)
11.) No Shame in Turning Back
One of the most important of the 11 tips for hiking Camelback Mountain is to know your limits. There is no shame in recognizing that you have had enough of Camelback. While this hike was incredible, its views are not worth risking your life. Safety should be your number one priority. There were many groups who turned back at certain points due to varying reasons. It doesn’t mean that you will never succeed in reaching the summit. Just not today.
These are my 11 tips for hiking Camelback Mountian.
If you are interested in following my solo travel journey in Arizona please take a peek at my other Arizona post.
