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Echo Canyon Recreation Area
4925 E McDonald Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85018, United States
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Er
Review №1

I decided to catch the sunrise last Saturday. The hike up is about an hour. So, plan accordingly and get there early as I quickly found out I wasnt the only one who had this in mind.Six others cars pulled in after I parked. I regret not bringing a flashlight.Its a daunting trek up to its pinnacle, but well worth your efforts. Ill definitely be back to do this again.Bring your loved one, friend or a date! Something worth experiencing with others, for sure.

Su
Review №2

Great hike for a good workout! There is a rail to help get up and down steep parts. Plenty of boulders to climb over.

Ca
Review №3

One of my favorite challenging hikes....its not for beginners but still manageable....

Ch
Review №4

Beautiful views from the top of Camelbak Mountain! Trail is not for the faint of heart though. It is well maintained, but it is steep and Rocky. Double the time you think it will take you. Bring lots of water, and if you have one, use a hydration backpack. Its handy to have both hands free on this scramble!

Jo
Review №5

Not an Easy trial first and foremost, but it has it all.The best and most fulfilling hike Ive had in a long time!

He
Review №6

Fantastic hike. Rigorous but doable. Not good for children or those with sensitivities to the sun. Bring lots of water... And then bring some more

Ma
Review №7

Great hike. As others have said, It was very busy. But I was there on a Sunday morning at 7:00 a.m. so I think the weekends are busier. I found out that there are two trails to the top. The trail on the west side is tougher than the trail on the east side. I took the trail on the west side and the bonus was that it was in the shade almost the entire time. There was probably about 10 minutes of sun on the way down. Very difficult but rewarding. Took meabout 50 minutes up and 45 minutes down. Was not breaking speed records but had a steady pace.

Ry
Review №8

Challenging but rewarding hike to the summit. Requires 2 hands, so hydration backpack is recommended. There is a section with a pole that had a 60 degree incline and lots of rock scrambling. Most of it is exposed to the sun so mind the temperature before going

Za
Review №9

Awesome! Beautiful views make sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring water!

sh
Review №10

The terrain is from moderate beginners to double black diamond. There are plenty of lower trails to hike and experience the beautiful scenery and views. The rock formations and colors are very beautiful with some cactus growing in some pretty cool spots. You will see some homes built on the base area of this mountain as well as the adjacent mountains. The elevation is not extreme but some of the advanced hikes can get a bit steep and slippery. Definitely a hike worth going to if you are in this area, be sure to go early morning if possible and bring plenty of water.

Mi
Review №11

Definitely recommend for a workout, not for those who havent been hiking or beginners. A nice view of the valley at the top. Be proud of yourself once you get to the top, its not easy and many are helicoptered off or quit. Bring tons of water, do not think you are different than everyone else, Arizona is a desert, be smart.

da
Review №12

Great hike. Good workout. Plan about 2 hour total hike with rest and enjoy views from top. Bring water with you or at least a refillable bottle. Water and rest rooms available at bottom of trail . Best part its free! About 45 minutes travel from down town on transit. 4 bucks all day pass

Jo
Review №13

Had a great Run/Hike/Bear crawl up the mountain hahaha. Just know if your patient you will find a parking spot.

Ki
Review №14

Not an easy hike, but great cardio! Take your time. Gets steep. Wear good shoes and bring water. Clean bathrooms at entrance.

H.
Review №15

Lovely hike, definitely difficult but well worth the effort.Need proper shoes and enough water if hiking in summer.Short, took me hour and half or 2 hrs to complete it.Gorgeous view!!!

Se
Review №16

An awesome hike that can be done in around 2 hours. Lots of steep climbs that combined with the heat put this hike in the extreme category. Bring plenty of water

Ni
Review №17

Parking is a challenge on weekend mornings. Water,water,water. Great challenging hike pass mummy rock or the praying monk then hand rail assistance up the east side to scale the ascent to the camels hump at the summit.

Na
Review №18

Great hike. I did not make it to the summit, but a couple of family members did. Many people run this trail!! Amazing to me given the rocky terrain.

Fi
Review №19

Took this hike as my first experience after arriving in Phoenix. Its a nice hike around beautiful rock formations, steep enough to get a good workout.

Ni
Review №20

An amazing short but intense hike. Only the first part of the hike involves hiking up a steep incline. Most of the hike consists of scrambling up rocks which test both your endurance and leg strength. Its basically like performing lunges till you reach the top.Avid hikers would be able complete the ascent in around the 45 minute mark, and the descent takes about 30 minutes. Add 10 minutes to both if taking it easy.

An
Review №21

Greatest place to watch the sun drop in front of your eyes. Rangers are watchful and helpful.

Bo
Review №22

I have been hiking this beautiful mountain since moving here in 1985!!!

Je
Review №23

Parking spaces near the top are limited and very small. I like walking up and down the road for a good cardio session.

Mi
Review №24

Havent completed the entire hike yet - but this area in Paradise Valley is special. I found this while driving by - knowing I would return to check it out.

Ju
Review №25

Do not leave you car in the lot for a night hike, its extremely dangerous coming down at night than going up more time is needed, as I learned, I got my ticket 5 minute before I had got to my car, no where on Google does it say a time they close, or that theres a after hours, the cops are just waiting to give tickets.

SL
Review №26

This is not for the weak person. Slow and steady. Take PLENTY of snacks, water, and electrolytes

Sl
Review №27

This hike definitely lands on the harder side. Not impossible but you will be dripping sweat by the time you get up.

Je
Review №28

This hiking trail offers all difficulties and the people who hike the trail and kind. All age groups and hiking experience are welcome.

Ma
Review №29

This was a hard hike but super fun at the same time. Going up was harder then coming down and it had the right amount of challenges such as incline, a little scrambling, steep rocks, and youll burn those leg muscles. Then when you reach the top the view is all worth it. There are restrooms at the trail head but parking sucks. It does get very crowded so Id hike it again but prob wont go as often due to the parking situation.

Ha
Review №30

Great hike, good base parking area with bathrooms, etc. Bring water and good shoes! Im a pretty fit non-climber and I got to the top in 39 minutes.

sh
Review №31

I loved this hike every minute of it. It was intense workout. I would do it all over again.

Jo
Review №32

When i tell you that this is a great hike, thats a complete understatement. You got an easy beginner trail that you can start off with, and then there are other trails that become a little more strenuous and fun. Theres a little climbing involved, not just hiking, so this trail turns into a full body workout. Make sure you pack plenty of water and dont push yourself too hard if youre just a beginner. There are thing to hold on to as you climb, so dont worry. There are two poke gyms and a pokestop or two. One of the gyms is an ex gym. And they both are pretty great spawn points for pokemon.

Ch
Review №33

Clean,safe and challenging environment... Great trails....

Fr
Review №34

Great hikes, remember to bring enough water!

Mi
Review №35

Amazing climb. Bring at least 32oz of water and plan on 3 hours. Definitely worth it but be prepared to work if you are going to the top!

Pa
Review №36

Challenging trail, beautiful mountain. However, 90% of the people you encounter on this trail have no idea what theyre doing. Litter, loud music, people taking breaks in the middle of the trail. I even saw someone with 2 young children, probably younger than 5, on the trail when it was 97° and they were wearing masks. I think this will be my last hike on this trail

Ky
Review №37

Beautiful and nice hike for sunrise since you won’t get much sun even after it rises cause the mountains position

Ru
Review №38

Man! The hardest mountain I have ever climbed. Once you get to the top, uff breath taking. Beautiful! When you catch your breath back and you are ready to come down just be careful you dont slip in one of those rocks. It can get dangerous.

Ju
Review №39

I loved this hike so much! It was a challenge for sure! I recommend going here! Its a fun hike that gets difficult very quick! The view at the top is worth it though! You feel incredibly accomplished once you reach the top and get to see Phoenix from up there!

De
Review №40

This is a really fun hike, but its extremely difficult. this hike required a decent amount of upper body strength.bring tons of water, youll need it!

Ch
Review №41

Great place great views beautiful

Za
Review №42

Beautiful hike which traverses a few peaks with spectacular views of Scottsdale and Phoenix. There is ample parking, restrooms, and a water fountain at the base. The trail ascends quickly and parts of the trail can be relatively challenging to maintain footing. In those areas, you’re likely to find a handrail to assist. The trail is up and back and open during daylight hours only. Definitely recommend for the views and interesting terrain. Be sure to bring water and allow for the descent prior to sunset!

Ja
Review №43

Great hike. Double black diamond so be prepared for a tough one.

Ry
Review №44

So many grumpy girlfriends and unprepared tourists. Makes for a highly enjoyable stroll with plenty of people watching. Great way to start the day.Bring water and adequate footwear. Don’t be a dummy.

Do
Review №45

I only disliked this place because no where else on the web did it say it was temporarily CLOSED! It would have been very helpful since I could have started my hike earlier at the Echo trailhead instead of wasting time going here first!

Mi
Review №46

Very challenging, but rewarding to stand at the top and enjoy the great view. Recommend early in the day as it started to get hot. Bring enough water and maybe even a light snack.

Mi
Review №47

Great hiking trails but not for inexperienced people. Be in shape, all trails are steep.

B
Review №48

Parkings kinda limited but great trail

Ma
Review №49

1st time in Phoenix... Was not prepared to hike this mountain but I did it with Jeans and button down shirt all the way to the top. Not trying to brag but to recommend and warn everyone to NOT do what I did. This hike is very very difficult and should not be under estimated, make sure you take lots of water and go with a buddy... there is lots of rattlesnakes so watch out. dont go up if is late cuz it gets pitch back... I ended up hiking back in the dark by the time I was close to the bottom(not fun). But overall an excellent hike I would definitely do it again next time Im in town but this time Ill be prepared with shorts and t-shirt

An
Review №50

Great hiking and scenic view

Ku
Review №51

Free entry and parking make this iconic Phoenix hiking trail always busy... great for a relaxing picnic too. You can even rock climb and rappel in certain spots. Hiking can be pretty tough in some spots, but Ive seen all ages make it the summit. Great views of the city, friendly outgoing crowd and easy to get to from anywhere. Any Phoenician or visitor needs to hike this at least once.

Sa
Review №52

Difficult Hike. Parking is a issue. Make sure you have good boots. Carry backup. Good luck and have fun.

Br
Review №53

Great hike tough on your legs but makes you feel great once youre at the peak! I would recommend it to anyone Ive been hiking this mountain since I was a small boy! Trust yourself! Become a legend in your mind!

Ja
Review №54

First time visiting Phoenix. I’m so glad we decided to do this hike! It was intense, but totally worth it. Good hiking shoes is a must and gloves if you have sensitive hands. You will be using your hands often to pull yourself up or stabilize yourself going down. Don’t forget plenty of water and sunscreen!

Ra
Review №55

I love this challenging hike/scramble up camelback. It is a well travelled hike with some challenging climbing over a lengthy boulder field. Take plenty of water and proper foot wear. great 360 view at the top.

Da
Review №56

Parking was challenging. They had people waving cars into a parking lot that was full. If the lot is full, dont allow people in until spaces become available. Once we pulled in, we had to sit and wait while cars in front of us stopped to wait for someone to finish up their hike and leave. When we finally got out, we asked them where else we could park and they directed us to the Omni Resort down the street. We had to valet so at the end of the day we had to pay $15 to park. That aside, the hike was challenging and fabulous!!! Beautiful views the whole way up. It was a busy trail but not so crowded that it impeded us in any way. Other hikers were all friendly and it was a great experience to share with my son and our friends. I would definitely do it again.

Jo
Review №57

Love this trail its agreat leg workout and the view up top is totally worth it

Re
Review №58

Great hike and a fantastic work out Please be safe out there

Ra
Review №59

Great hiking trail for experienced hikers. Do not think you can hike in summer heat without water. If you are not a seasoned hiker this trail is not for you. There is climbing and rugged terrain. Great views of the valley at the top.

Za
Review №60

Awesome get away. Multiple trails that range from double black diamond to a trail thats handicapped accessible.

Az
Review №61

The Camelback Mountain is absolutely beautiful. I just loved the hiking and the view

Ti
Review №62

If you want to have a good hike with spectacular views then this is the place for you. Sometimes parking can be tough to find but what the heck. Its a beautiful place. See you there!

Ma
Review №63

I cannot comment on the intensity of the hike itself as I have not yet done it but I was up there just to look around and I can say it is beautiful. There is plenty of parking which is very rare so take that as your first reason to go. I can imagine the views from the top would be breath taking as the views just from the bottom or enough to make me pull out my camera. The parking lot was clean, it’s safe as there is a guard but you’re in a good areas as well. I will definitely be going back to try this one soon.

Jo
Review №64

Beautiful place to enjoy a nice day! Very difficult to climb after halfway. Recommend great shoes and lots of water! Make sure to take breaks and not to over do it. Listen to your body!

Da
Review №65

Camelback Mountain is a great hike during the cooler months. In some of the tougher areas there are actually handrails to pull yourself up or guide yourself down. I highly recommend for those that are looking for a interesting adventure. There is no water so bring your own and for the trip back down pack a couple of protein bars. Youll need the energy and your legs will be somewhat weak going down. Bring no less than a liter of water. I saw far too many people walking back down with empty 20oz water bottles. Have fun and be safe.

Lu
Review №66

Just as I remember it when I lived there with some nice improvements. The scenic views at any part of the various trails are simply beautiful!

Jo
Review №67

Great day for a hike as cool morning to start. I made it to the top. It was an intense hike. Need hiking shoes as did it with sneakers. Awesome views on the way up and at the top. Took about one hour and 20 minutes to the top.

Is
Review №68

Such a great place to hike and take amazing photos of these beautiful nature gifts.

Ed
Review №69

Great place to go for a hike and enjoy nature. I would definitely recommend showing up early the parking lot can get full especially on weekends.

Br
Review №70

Very beautiful views and somewhat difficult hike. Its easy for me and a female friend from out of town that does not exercise much at all made it to the top with no problem! Great fun workout.

Ka
Review №71

I am 29 years old and fit. This hike was well worth the 360 view at the top. I would classify it as a hard hike with the elevation gain and large rocks to scramble up. I am afraid of heights but this hike did not bother me at all. It took about 2 hours round trip enjoying the hike and not racing up. It was breezy at the top. I recomend some trail runners with grip which made it easier for me than my friend with regular running shoes. bring some water

Ta
Review №72

Difficult hike. You are constantly going up and scrambling over rocks. Its short though, so its nice if you want a good workout in a 2 hour time period. Usually very crowded. I would go on a weekday. Please bring that H2O!!

Ty
Review №73

My fiance and I stumbled upon this place around sunset and we were mesmerized by how beautiful it was. Every direction you look had different scenery and it was all beautiful. It also seems to have popular trails for runners.

Mi
Review №74

This is a great hike but be prepared. It is very difficult and not for inexperienced hikers or those incredibly out of shape. Bring at least a liter and half of water per person.The hike itself has great views and this side is in the shade all morning which is great to avoid the heat. The views from the top are worth the workout.

Ma
Review №75

Great hike. This is not just a path to walk on. There is slick rock options, boulders to scurry up. The views are great. Seemed a little crowded. But still very fun.

Ma
Review №76

Challenging hike but beautiful views! Bring a LOT of water

Cl
Review №77

It was challenging but worth it when we got to the top. The views were beautiful and the sense of accomplishment is great!

Na
Review №78

Very steep hike but the view from the top was worth it. Cant beat the closeness to downtown Phoenix!

Po
Review №79

And once again it was awesome! We really like to come back here. Every time you see something thin new.

Ce
Review №80

The park rangers were very helpful, people were very friendly. The views​ were​ out of this world, if you are a first time hiker, this is the place for you. Where good shoes, take your time and stay on the trails.

Ro
Review №81

Good work out sum parts a little slippery but for the most part an enjoyable hiking trail

Ja
Review №82

This place was awesome! Crowded...but still had a great workout.

Sa
Review №83

Always an amazing hike?But please make sure to drink a lot of water

Ha
Review №84

Fantastic hiking area with lots of locals taking this hike to enjoy the scenery and looking at the city from up top.

La
Review №85

This hike wasnt bad, but it may be a little steeper for those who arent active on a daily basis. I found myself huffing and puffing when I got to the top. Just make sure to bring water and take breaks when you need them.

Mi
Review №86

Trail is very wide compared to other mountains. Echo Trail is hot in the afternoon to evening-Full Sun!

Ma
Review №87

Do yourself a favor and dont underestimate this hike, take plenty of water. Its one of the more difficult ones and I recommend doing it early if its summer. On that note parking is usually difficult in the mornings. Be cautious on your way down as the rocks are slippery. Oh and beware the of the metal pole you can use to help you on your way up or down as it gets hot baking in the sun. The view at the top is definitely worth it.

Ll
Review №88

The climb is great and the view is fantastic ! almost made it to the last summit...the hikers are really helpful...people helped me get over to the railing when I needed it. BRING PROPER GEAR-gloves, camelpack, and shoes with great grips. Until October, hike early in the morning.

Ce
Review №89

The hiking experience was fantastic. Rangers take care of security. The path has safety equipment on the way. There is a place for refreshments at the bottom. There are stop sites for resting and photo.

Se
Review №90

Its a tough climb. And I mean climb. Its mostly a Scramble over boulders acending to the summit. The first part of the hike is trail hike. The trail is rated Extremely difficult. Worth it when you get to the summit though. Pics cant do it justice.

St
Review №91

Beatiful views of the valley, the paths are neat and tidy, but expect a steep climb in some sections, it is still possible to jog for most of the trail. Bring at least 1L of water per person.

Ca
Review №92

Great challenging trail, limited parking. I recommend getting dropped off when possible.

Ga
Review №93

So much fun and great views. Not an easy climb but if you are active and somewhat in shape you should be able to do it. It challenged me and my wife but glad we did it because the view up top is worth the effort. For travelers a must do, there are two ways up. One trail is much easier, but you should do the hard side if you can!

Bi
Review №94

It was Billy Goat Hiking! So awesome though! Glad we did it and made it to the top. Beautiful view. Trail marked very well. Limited parking helps with volume of people.

D
Review №95

Great experience, took my 9 and 11 year old kids with me. Its definitely a nature experience so dont go without being hydrated, reasonably in shape and with plenty of water. Kids had a blast but we took it slow and took our time hiking up. We took plenty of breaks for water and rest, made it to marker 13 and finally turned around. Ill definitely come back sometime with some peers and get to the top! I was there when fire fighters were heading up as I was leaving to rescue someone so its not something casual to just go do. You can go, but be warned, the desert heat can be very unforgiving very quickly if youre not accustomed to it, you can easily be caught off guard and get yourself in trouble. Great experience, great adventure not too far away.

Ke
Review №96

Simply one of the best kept treasures here in Phoenix, you have a choice of Echo Canyon or Cholla trailhead pick your poison theyre both awesome trails.

je
Review №97

Amazing hike. beginner beware. this is a tough trail to hike. dont go mid day. too hot.

Aa
Review №98

Great trails, updated parking and facilities are great! Amazing views at the top! Youll definitely need your hands to climb some of the steep areas of the trail so make sure you can tuck that water bottle away.

To
Review №99

Hike was great! Really for the intermediate to advanced hikers. I recommend some quality hiking shoes with souls made for rock climbing. As there were two people that day rescued off the mountain for not being well prepared... Definitely go at your pace and listen to your self and your hiking partners. If their not comfortable with the terrain or skill level, please dont push it... You can always train and go a little further another day. Enjoy the climb, take your time, and be safe... Recommended- water, good clothing, shoes, phone, companion if available, patience, and remember bring a smile and have fun.....

An
Review №100

Its worth the struggle, enjoy your view.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.8 Rating
  • Address:4925 E McDonald Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85018, United States
  • Site:https://phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/camelback-mountain
  • Phone:+1 602-261-8318
Categories
  • Tourist attraction
  • Hiking area
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
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