Camelback Mountain Near Phoenix AZ

Camelback Mountain Arizona is the famous landmark icon near Phoenix and the surrounding areas of Scottsdale and Paradise Valley. This prominent monument in the center of Phoenix Valley is part of the Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Recreation Area.

For many local Arizona residents, this area is a point of pride symbolizing a resting camel keeping constant watch high above the Phoenix horizon. In fact, this natural sandstone formation, was named after its resemblance to the head and hump of a kneeling camel.

As vacationers fly into the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport they cannot help but notice this massive prominent landmark. Camelback Mountain overlooks the Valley of the Sun, which is shared by Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley.

History of Camelback Mountain

Some say it took tens of millions of years for wind and weather to sculpt this masterpiece made of sandstone and granite. The Mountain rises to over 2700 feet in elevation and is the highest peak in the Phoenix mountain ranges.

Early exploration discovered a ceremonial cave nestled into the north side of the mountain suggesting that the Hohokam Culture lived in the area. The Hohokam considered this to be a sacred site. Although they abandoned the area around the 14th century, today the religious Hohokam cave and its purpose cause many people to still refer to Camelback as Sacred Mountain.

Over the years several key political leaders have made efforts to preserve and protect this mountain monument as a natural landmark. Recommended laws to prevent any building and development above the 1,600-foot mark have yet to succeed however. In 1965 US Senator Barry Goldwater secured higher elevations of Camelback Mountain in Phoenix for natural activities and the area became an official Phoenix City park in 1968.

Despite legislative restrictions, there are now some luxury resorts and golf courses in the area. These were designed to blend into the natural settings and help make this area a great vacation destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking the Mountain

Camelback Mountain trails attract more than 300,000 avid recreational hikers from around the world each year. In fact, the area is famous for its ultimate urban hiking experience.

There are two hiking trails that lead to the Peak of the Mountain. The ascent is 1,280 feet and the hikes are not for the beginner hiker, as both trails are strenuous with steep grades. Climbing Camelback Mountain, the summit hikes take between 1.5 and 3 hours, round trip.

Echo Canyon Trail (Summit Trail)

1.2 Miles with a 1,262 Feet Elevation Gain – Hike among spectacular sandstone rock formations with unrivaled views from the summit overlooking all of Greater Phoenix.

Cholla Trail

1.4 Miles with a 1,200 Feet Elevation Gain – Hike up steep rocky sections and navigate through trails with drop-offs on both sides. Trail consists of dirt, gravel, and boulders, with some handrails.

Camelback Mountain can also accommodate beginner hikers. The easier trails are equally enjoyable and take less than an hour to complete.

These include:

Bobby’s Rock Trail – 0.25 mile with a 200 feet elevation gain.

Ramada Loop Trail – 0.123 mile with a 100 feet elevation gain.

Praying Monk Camelback Mountain

A natural point of interest situated on the northern slope is a natural rock formation known as The Praying Monk. This natural red sandstone formation is popular among rock climbers. It is also equally enjoyable to view from below as the outline looks like a monk kneeling in prayer and facing the mountain peak.

Other Activities

There are a lot of things to do on Camelback Mountain since it is also a cultural hub. You’ll find a wide array of activities such as exciting nightlife, world-class shopping, and outdoor activities including horseback riding, mountain biking, river rafting, kayaking, and Arizona desert eco-tours.

Resorts – Several resorts located near or on the Mountain host vacationers during their stay; popular hotels include Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain, Camelback Inn, Royal Palms and The Phoenician.

Golf – For the golf enthusiast there are several golf courses in the area as well including Camelback Golf Course, Indian Bend Golf Course, and Camelback Golf Club.

Grand Canyon Tour Includes Camelback Mountain

Caravan Tours is world renowned for our fully guided all inclusive tours. Since 1952, our family owned and operated tour company has been offering low cost guided tours throughout the USA, Canada, and Central America.

We offer the absolute best value for all inclusive Grand Canyon tours. For one low tour price your Caravan vacation includes all itinerary activities, ground transportation, airport transfers, accommodations, meals, and even gratuities.

Come join us on a Caravan Grand Canyon tour that also includes a sightseeing drive along Camelback Mountain before visiting Sedona, the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Park.

Visit Caravan’s Grand Canyon tour reviews page to read what other vacationers have said about our Grand Canyon tours.

Call Caravan toll free at 1-800-CARAVAN (227-2826) to reserve your spot today and book early as our Grand Canyon tour is always very popular.