Camelback Mountain via Echo Canyon Trail – Scottsdale, Arizona

The tour up to Camelback Mountain is a classic among the hikes around Scottsdale and Phoenix! From the back of the camel-shaped mountain - hence its name - you have a first-class view of the buzzing city without having to venture far out of it or to great heights. A perfect excursion at sunrise too! Incidentally, people of the Hohokam culture lived on the mountain, which was sacred to them, until the 14th century. One of their caves was found on the north side of Camelback Mountain.

You start in the heart of Scottsdale at the Summit Trail parking lot. Only the first few steps are through flat terrain, then the climb begins into the small mountain world that rises above the landscape surrounded by residential areas. You pass the first mountain, the Praying Monk. Here on the saddle between Camelback Mountain and Praying Monk you can take a break before tackling the last steep section to the summit of Camelback Mountain.

The second kilometer is really tough. There is a climb of almost 200 meters. Once you have done that, you will be treated to a wonderful 360-degree view. Phoenix and its striking skyline stretch out beneath you and, if the weather is good, you can see the rugged peaks of the Superstition Mountains. After a well-deserved break between towering saguaro cacti, you descend from Camelback Mountain along the same path to get back to the starting point.