Camelback Mountain Tours and Activities

Camelback Mountain
Camelback Mountain
Camelback Mountain
Camelback Mountain
Camelback Mountain


A distinct “hump” in the landscape offers panoramic views over the Valley of the Sun.

Camelback Mountain resembles a camel at rest in the Sonoran Desert. The “head” of the camel is made up of red sandstone. Its “hump”, the peak of the mountain, is a granite formation that rises 2,704 feet (824 meters) above sea level. This makes it the highest mountain in Phoenix with one of the best panoramic views in Arizona.Walking or climbing the trails is a popular half-day trip.

For millions of years the huge landform stood deserted until the Hohokam people took up residence here in the first century. They abandoned the site some 1,450 years later for unknown reasons. The ceremonial cave they left behind gave Camelback its folk name: Sacred Mountain. Today, hundreds of thousands of hikers tackle the slopes each year.

To reach the summit, you have to ascend roughly 1,200 feet (365 meters) from the base at Echo Canyon. Steep narrow paths and rough surfaces can make it a challenge, especially on hot days. The Echo Canyon Summit Trail, a 2.3-mile (3.7-kilometer) round trip, is one of the more strenuous. The longer Cholla Trail is more gradual, but joins up with the final steep section of the Summit Trail. It is worth the effort to get a 360-degree view over the Valley of the Sun. Allow a few hours for the return trip. Watch out for snakes and sharp rocks, wear adequate clothing and carry your water on your back because you’ll need your hands for climbing. 

There are plenty of great ascents for rock climbers. After a relaxing walk with a view, try one of the trails around Camelback’s base. Check out the rugged landscape of cacti, wildflowers, gardens of lichens, and rocks that have been beaten into a myriad of shapes by millennia of erosive forces.

Camelback Mountain is a 25-minute drive northeast of downtown. Come early, because parking near the base is very limited. 

Please note that in January 2013 work began on an upgrade of the Summit Trail, Echo Canyon Recreation Area, parking area and restrooms, making future access easier but closing the trail for a large part of the year.

Plan a trip to see Camelback Mountain

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Westgate Painted Mountain Golf Resort
Hotel Valley Ho
Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale

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Best Lodging Options Near Camelback Mountain

The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale

The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale

5 out of 5
6000 E Camelback Rd, Paradise Valley, AZ
The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale
Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa

5 out of 5
5700 E McDonald Drive, Paradise Valley, AZ
Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa
Royal Palms Resort and Spa, part of Hyatt

Royal Palms Resort and Spa, part of Hyatt

5 out of 5
5200 E Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ
Royal Palms Resort and Spa, part of Hyatt
Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale

Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale

4.5 out of 5
5445 E Lincoln Dr, Paradise Valley, AZ
Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale
Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia

Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia

4 out of 5
4949 E Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley, AZ
Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia
Scottsdale Camelback Resort

Scottsdale Camelback Resort

4 out of 5
6302 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ
Scottsdale Camelback Resort
The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician, Luxury Collection

The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician, Luxury Collection

5 out of 5
6000 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ
The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician, Luxury Collection
JW Marriott Camelback Inn Scottsdale Resort & Spa

JW Marriott Camelback Inn Scottsdale Resort & Spa

4.5 out of 5
5402 E Lincoln Dr, Paradise Valley, AZ
JW Marriott Camelback Inn Scottsdale Resort & Spa
The Global Ambassador

The Global Ambassador

4.5 out of 5
4360 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ
The Global Ambassador
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Camelback Mountain

Camelback Mountain in Phoenix, Arizona, offers a variety of activities for tourists, including hiking trails and desert trails that showcase the stunning landscape. For those seeking more leisurely pursuits, there are nearby golf courses and water parks to enjoy. Additionally, consider taking a virtual tour to explore the area's natural beauty from the comfort of your accommodation. With options for sports and running, Camelback Mountain is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Shopping

Discover the vibrant shopping scene near Camelback Mountain! Scottsdale Fashion Square and Scottsdale Waterfront, both 3.2km away, offer a mix of family-friendly entertainment and great shopping. Biltmore Fashion Park, located 6.4km away, also provides a delightful shopping experience. If you're up for a drive, consider exploring more options beyond that.

Recreation

At Chase Field, immerse yourself in the excitement of live sports just 12.9km from Camelback Mountain. For a serene escape, Tempe Beach Park, located 9.7km away, offers tranquil surroundings perfect for relaxation. Enjoy a round of golf at the Arizona Biltmore Resort Links Course, only 6.4km distant, surrounded by beautiful outdoor scenery.

Adventure

Experience the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park, located 8.0km from Camelback Mountain, offering thrilling slides and wave pools for the whole family. Alternatively, head to Big Surf, 9.7km away, for a fun-filled day of water activities and entertainment that will create unforgettable memories.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Camelback Mountain offers vibrant options. Try your luck at the Talking Stick Resort Casino for a thrilling evening, or enjoy a show at the nearby Celebrity Theater for a taste of culture. For a relaxed family outing, catch a flick at AMC Esplanade 14.

Find the best attractions near Camelback Mountain

If you’re visiting Camelback Mountain, you’ll find a variety of attractions that cater to every type of traveller. From exploring urban parks and modern colleges to enjoying the serene lakes, there's something for everyone. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or family-friendly activities, the area offers a wonderful blend of opportunities to create lasting memories during your vacation.

  • Arizona State University: Explore the vibrant campus of Arizona State University, a hub of innovation and learning, just 11.3km from Camelback Mountain. Enjoy the modern architecture and dynamic city atmosphere, perfect for soaking up the local culture.
  • Tempe Town Lake: A romantic escape awaits at Tempe Town Lake, located 9.7km away. With stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and a beach-like vibe, it’s ideal for a leisurely stroll or a picturesque picnic with loved ones.
  • Desert Botanical Garden: Discover the beauty of desert flora at the Desert Botanical Garden, just 6.4km from Camelback Mountain. This family-friendly destination offers outdoor exploration and romantic settings, perfect for nature enthusiasts and couples alike.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Camelback Mountain

To save money on your visit to Camelback Mountain, consider travelling during the off-peak months of June to August when accommodation prices are lower. Opt for Tuesday stays for the best rates, as Saturdays tend to be pricier. Enjoy the free entry to Camelback Mountain and explore nearby attractions like Scottsdale Fashion Square and Biltmore Fashion Park at no cost. Use Expedia to find affordable hotels by filtering for eco-friendly options and bundling your flight and activities for additional savings. Look out for deals that offer free cancellation and the best rates.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Camelback Mountain are June to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to April, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Camelback Mountain is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Camelback Mountain is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can narrow down your choices by hotel type—by selecting the "Eco-certified" filter, you’ll discover sustainable and eco-friendly accommodations ready for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Camelback Mountain with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.