Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Distance: 2.5 Miles Out and Back Time: 2 Hours
Difficulty: Strenuous/Challenging
Elevation Gain: 1,300 Feet
Season: Year Round (Summer can be unbearably hot)
Foot Traffic: Heavy
Date Hiked:
Overview
For anyone that has visited the Phoenix area, unquestionably, the striking features of Camelback Mountain is something that they are familiar with. As famous as the backdrop of Camelback Mountain is, the hike up it is possibly just as iconic. Crowds flock here and the parking area can often fill up during peak season (October-May).
There are two trails that will lead hikers to the summit of the famed Camelback Mountain. The Cholla trail is a 3 mile, out and back trail, which many people seem to think offers the better views of the two trail options and while just a bit longer, isn’t nearly as steep. The second trail to access Camelback Mountain, is the nearly 2.5 mile, out and back, trail up Echo Canyon. This is the more popular of the two trails and the trail that I choose and the one I will describe here.
For most seasoned hikers, the Echo Canyon Trail shouldn’t present many problems. However, this trail shouldn’t be taken lightly and for lesser experienced hikers and those with lower skill levels, this may not be the trail for you. The trail up can be extremely steep, with multiple areas requiring the aid of a handrail that has been placed right up the middle of the trail in spots and a few areas of the trail have minor exposed spots that those with a fear of heights may not enjoy or be obliged to take part in. The majority of the trail is entirely exposed to the sun as well. This is a phenomenal, fun hike, although hikers should treat it with the respect that it deserves and be aware that it can be pretty challenging for a lot of hikers.
Trail Description and Scout’s Story
In May of this year (2023) our two year old daughter, Scout, reached a huge milestone in her battle against stage 4 cancer, being placed into remission the day after turning two years old. For the first time in over a year, our family would be leaving our state of residency and hitting the road. Before stopping in Prescott to see Scout’s grandparents, we would be stopping to enjoy a few days in the Phoenix area.
With tons of sights and activities planned for the few days we were in Phoenix, hiking Camelback Mountain wasn’t one that was on our list. If there is one thing that I truly dislike, it’s adventuring without Scout and my wife. The temperature was hovering right around an unseasonably October high of 100 degrees. Clearly, taking Scout up the Echo Canyon trail didn’t seem like a very rational or safe choice. As my wife put Scout down for a nap I decided to make the short 10 minute drive from our hotel to trail run the Echo Canyon trail by myself, in order to get some exercise.
Starting on the Echo Canyon Trail
After arriving at the Echo Canyon Trail, I grabbed my water and nothing else. The incredibly obvious trail at the back of the parking area, started off with a short dip downhill. I hit the downhill section running, following around a quick bend and planning to make quick work of the short 1.2 miles to the summit. Almost immediately, I reached a signed junction with the Bobby’s Rock Loop, which headed right. I stayed straight along the Echo Canyon Trail, and this is where the trail started to get down to business.
A few short switchbacks led to some nice views of the rock formations in front of me.
In almost no time I had reached a large canyon wall to my right and a fence leading up the left side of the trail.
The First Steep Section
Railroad ties lead up the initial portion of the steep climb and I was thinking that I was making pretty good time.
Then I started breathing a little harder and realized that this trail was gonna take me a little longer than what I had anticipated.
The trail gets rather steep in this first section and just after starting up it, the railroad ties disappear and a metal pole has been installed to aid hikers in proceeding further.
I opted to follow along the fence line instead of using the middle pole. Whichever way you choose, take it slow, watch your step and make sure you are comfortable.
To be completely honest, I had looked at pictures of this section the day before and pictures truly do not put into perspective exactly how steep this section is. The trail briefly levels at the end of the metal pole and then another steep climb begins. Another metal pole is in place along this section as well.
At this point I was feeling a little embarrassed and couldn’t believe that I thought that I was just gonna blow through this trail. Hands on my hips, and taking a rest, I knew my small hydroflask wasn’t sufficient to be doing this trail in 100 degree heat. I knew I would be fine, but this is a great lesson, that somehow I constantly don’t seem to learn. There is no reason to suffer and not have enough water. I urge everyone to be prepared and be smart. I clearly had underestimated this trail and was now gonna have to hike the next two miles with about a quarter of my small hydroflask left.
The Boulder Section
At the end of the metal pole sections, I couldn’t believe that I had only gone a half mile. An entirely flat area leads left and over a little rock face before veering back to the right. A little hidden cave is located in this area just off trail to the left. The trail took me back down before I eventually reached the boulder section. There is no fence or metal poles to aid hikers on this section. Although steep, I found this section relatively easy and it’s more or less boulder hopping to advance.
Again, I put my hands on my hips and laughed. I thought to myself how my sole purpose of coming here was to get exercise. Well, that is exactly what I was getting.
The boulder section didn’t last too long and before I knew it the trail leveled.
I took the opportunity at this point to check my phone and see how I was doing time wise. My phone wasn’t lighting up and at this point I realized that it was in power saving mode and that I was at less than 5 percent battery. With no camera, I was bummed and irritated. Hoping that I could reach the summit to take a picture before my phone died, I quickly and exhaustedly, pushed forward. I proceeded up a few more tiny climbs before the trail veered left. I knew I was getting close to the summit at this point.
Reaching the Summit
The last push towards the summit had arrived and finally, the huge open area presented itself to me. I took out my phone and of course, it was completely dead. In so many ways I had not adequately prepared to hike on this day. The reality is that the summit is not that impressive. The views are more sweeping in all directions but in my opinion the views along the hike up are comparable to those at the summit. The summit is flat, with lots of room to roam. I took in the views for a few minutes, but had become super bummed that I hadn’t charged my phone. I was growing increasingly thirsty at this point as well. With no water at this point, and feeling irritated, I began my descent back towards the trailhead.
Finishing the Hike and Final Thoughts
I made my way down rather fast. On two separate occasions my ankle turned a little bit and I slowed my pace a bit. Don’t let up on the way down and absolutely take your time and watch your step. The route down went by quickly and at this point I was no longer thirsting for water. By the time that I finished, I was glad that I had taken the time to hike this trail. I was also glad to be done and to be out of the heat.
This was a huge reminder to me that over confidence and unpreparedness often lead to a less than opportune hike. I still had a good time but for the second time in less than 2 days I hadn’t fully prepared myself, causing my experience to suffer. Had I not rushed and just taken the time to prepare a little more thoroughly, this would have been a much more satisfying day out for me. Instead, I was left feeling a little humbled.
Echo Canyon is a great trail. I would highly recommend staying away when the temperatures are high. It really is no joke. I hope everyone that comes out here to hike has a fun time. Take it slow, bring plenty of water and know your limits. There is no reason to make this trail harder than it already is, such as I did. Safe hiking and enjoy the journey!
Getting to the Echo Canyon (Camelback Mountain) Trailhead
4925 E McDonald Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85018
Notes, Questions and Thoughts
Park Hours:
- Sunrise to Sunset
Is this a fee area?
- No, there are no fees to park at or to hike the Echo Canyon trail to Camelback Mountain.
Are dogs allowed on the trail?
- No, dogs are NOT allowed on the Camelback Mountain trails. Even if they were, the trail just isn’t very suitable for animals and wouldn’t be any fun to bring them on.
Are there restrooms at the trailhead?
- Yes, restrooms and water are available adjacent to the trailhead.
Amplified music is PROHIBITED.
Although the Echo Canyon trail is open year round, hikers should be very cautious of hiking this trail in the often severe heat of Phoenix. The vast majority of the trail is exposed to the sun and has very little shade. Come prepared with plenty of water and try to avoid hiking here on days with excessive heat. Know your limits and never hesitate to turn around if need be.
Please recreate responsibly. Respect hikers, and all visitors and wildlife. Help make everyone’s experience better by keeping the nature experience as authentic as possible. Leave no trace and pack out everything that you pack in. Please remember that we are visitors and stewards of these special places. Help keep these places as wild as possible while not diminishing the outdoor experience of others.
Standing and/or waiting for parking spaces is PROHIBITED.
Please be careful and know your limits. Hikers have differing levels of fitness, skills and experience and the Echo Canyon trail may possibly be above some hikers skill levels. Never hesitate or be ashamed to turn around if you don’t feel comfortable or have doubts.
