Camelback is the most famous hike in the Phoenix area, and the summit view is worth it. It is also a genuinely hard climb, with steep rock, handrails in places and very little shade. Before a group sets out, it helps to know what the city itself says about it.
Back to the estate| Echo Canyon | Cholla | |
|---|---|---|
| City rating | Extremely difficult | Extremely difficult |
| Distance to summit | About 1.5 miles one way (estimate) | About 1.5 miles one way (estimate) |
| Notes | Steep and rocky, handrails in places | Long climb that turns into scrambling near the top |
Distances vary by source. Trail status, hours and heat restrictions change; check the City of Phoenix Camelback Mountain page.
Camelback is in Phoenix, a drive from North Scottsdale. Paradise Reserve has six bedrooms for up to 16 guests, five of them king suites with their own bathroom, plus a pool and spa, a golf simulator, a putting green and a pickleball court. Events and parties are not permitted at the house, and quiet hours apply. For more trails, see hiking near North Scottsdale.
The City of Phoenix rates both summit trails, Echo Canyon and Cholla, as extremely difficult.
Up to about three hours round trip for most hikers, depending on fitness and conditions.
From sunrise to sunset. Check the City of Phoenix page for closures and heat restrictions.
Trail ratings, hours and the Echo Canyon reopening from the City of Phoenix; distances from Visit Arizona, checked October 2026.
Your Home Base
Six bedrooms, a heated pool and spa, pickleball court, golf simulator, and putting green: the perfect retreat after a day exploring Scottsdale.
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