Camelback Mountain

Trailhead hours: Sunrise to sunset

Both Cholla Trail and Echo Canyon Trail are rated extremely difficult, challenging hikers with exposed rock, strenuous climbs and sections of hand-over-hand climbing. Dogs are prohibited at all Echo Canyon and Cholla Trail areas.

Echo Canyon Trail

Distance: 2.5 miles out-and-back

Time: 2-3 hours roundtrip

Trailhead: 4925 E McDonald Dr, Phoenix. This trailhead has restrooms, benches and water. The parking lot is busy and will typically remain full from early morning throughout the day on weekends

What to expect: This steep and rocky ascent requires assistance of handrails and climbing to reach the top, but the 360-degree views from the summit are worth it.

Cholla Trail

Distance: 2.6 miles out-and-back

Time: 2-3 hours roundtrip

Trailhead: Invergordon Road. This trailhead has a drinking fountain, restrooms and bike racks. The parking lot is busy and will typically remain full from early morning throughout the day on weekends

What to expect: This trail starts off with traditional hiking in the first mile, but the remainder of the hike is a series of climbing and maneuvering through heavy rock at the point known as "The Saddle." Once you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with views of Phoenix and Scottsdale. 

Phoenix's desert preserves, including Camelback Mountain, are home to native species such as the desert tortoise, Chuckwalla lizard, cottontail rabbits, and rattlesnakes (hike with caution). Plant species include the saguaro, cholla and prickly pear cacti, as well as native trees such as mesquite and palo verde. Learn more about the Sonoran Desert here, or if you're looking to see more of the desert's birds, check out some top bird watching spots. 

If you'd rather gawk at the Phoenix landmark from the ground (preferably with a cocktail in hand), there are plenty of restaurant patios and resort pools with views of Camelback Mountain, including The Phoenician, Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia, Chelsea's Kitchen, and Steak 44. Find some hotels and resorts to stay at here.