Exploring the Five Best Hikes Near the Super Bowl in Phoenix

The Super Bowl is one of the biggest events in the world, and this year it is being held in Phoenix, Arizona. If you're a fan of outdoor adventures, then you're in luck! Phoenix is home to some of the most stunning hikes in the country. Here are the top 5 hikes near the Super Bowl in Phoenix.

Top 5 Hikes Near The Super Bowl

• Camelback Mountain - Camelback Mountain is a popular hike for locals and visitors alike. The hike is strenuous, but the views from the summit are breathtaking. You can see the entire Phoenix valley from the top, making it the perfect place to enjoy a sunrise or sunset. The Echo Canyon Hike is 2.5 miles round trip and takes about 1.5 hours to complete.

  • Pinnacle Peak Park - Pinnacle Peak Park is a great hike for families and beginners. The hike is 1.75 miles round trip and takes about 1 hour to complete. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. The views from the top are stunning, and you can see the entire valley below.

  • South Mountain Park - South Mountain Park is the largest city park in the country, covering over 16,000 acres. The park offers many different trails, making it a great place for all skill levels. The park has trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, making it a great place to spend the day.

  • Tom's Thumb Trail - Tom's Thumb Trail is a popular hike in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The hike is 3.75 miles round trip and takes about 2 hours to complete. The trail is strenuous, but the views from the top are worth it and you can see for miles in all directions, making it a great place for a sunrise or sunset hike.

  • Papago Park - Papago Park is a great place for a scenic hike. The park offers many different trails, making it a great place for all skill levels. The park has trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, making it a great place to spend the day. The park also has a beautiful lake, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a picnic.

Enjoy The Super Bowl and The Desert

In conclusion, Phoenix is home to some of the most stunning hikes in the country. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, there is a trail for everyone in Phoenix. So, if you're in town for the Super Bowl, take a break from the excitement and enjoy one of these beautiful hikes!

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The Best Hike and Hotel in Scottsdale

The first installment of our Hike and Hotel Series takes place in the sunny valley of Scottsdale, Arizona. The Hike and Hotel series is a collection of the best hotels that are close to our favorite hikes around the world. We put together the top picks for food, drinks, hikes, lodging and so much more.

From the stirring beauty of the lush Sonoran Desert to ultra-luxury resorts, chef-driven restaurants, and exciting activities and attractions, Scottsdale is bursting at the seams with the makings of a memorable getaway. What's even better? It's surrounded by some of the most unique and incredible hikes in the Southwest.

Where to Stay in Scottsdale

Iconic in nature, unrivaled in service. Capture the moment as well as the imagination at Arizona's premier luxury resort destination The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort by Marriott.

About the Phoenician Resort

The Phoenician is a 250-acre luxury resort and convention facility in Phoenix and Old Town Scottsdale. It is located at the base of Camelback Mountain. This Arizona landmark had a luxurious makeover thanks to a three-year, $90 million refurbishment that included the pool area, lobby, and all 643 guest rooms (including casitas and suites). There are seven tennis courts, an amazing spa with a rooftop pool, and a restaurant and bar complex with 18 holes of golf. The kids will have a blast at this resort thanks to the water play area, water slide, kids' club, and game room, but adults will appreciate that they won't feel crowded out.

What's the best hike in Scottsdale?

Our favorite hike is one of two trails that weave their way up the "spine" of Camelback Mountain. Part of the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, Camelback gets its name from its two rock formations that resemble the head and back of a kneeling camel. The most popular trail is on the west side of the mountain called Echo Canyon Trail. If you have time, definitely check this hike out as well.

However, our favorite hike is located on the east side of Camelback Mountain and has just reopened after a full trailhead renovation - thanks in part to the Phoenician Resort. Cholla Trail is a fantastic hike that every visitor needs to try on their visit to Scottsdale, Arizona. It's a very challenging hike that climbs 1279 feet over the course of 1.2 miles each way. Just before the summit, the trail traverses the south side of the Camel. There are steep drop-offs and the trail is dotted with towering saguaro cacti and huge boulders. The hike terminates with a steep scramble to the top which is sure to get your adrenaline pumping.

What's New with the Cholla Trail?

One of the biggest challenges the community has faced is complaints from the neighborhood residents that surround the trailhead. The Phoenician Resort solved this issue by allowing the trail to wind through a portion of its property instead of going through the neighborhood. However, the parking situation has not changed much. There will be a section that is designated for Ride Share Apps for drop off and pick up. Most hikers will still need to arrive early and search for parking along Invergordon.

The new improvements include the removal of unstable boulders and an improved trailhead that has a bathroom, sinks, and a drinking fountain available for hikers.

What to Bring On Your Cholla Trail Hike

One of the best parts of Arizona is its weather. Well, for most of the year. For the majority of the year, the valley of the sun finds itself in sunny, warm weather. Most hikers wear athletic shorts and a moisture-wicking short sleeve shirt with some sturdy hiking boots on this trail. For those who are comfortable in sandals, Chacos are perfectly at home on these trails. Be prepared for loose sand, boulder hopping, and sharp rocks along the Cholla Trail. For hikers either getting an early start for sunrise or staying out late to watch the sunset, it's a good idea to bring a mid-layer weight shirt. In the desert, once the sun goes down, the temps are soon to follow.

Taking in the views from the summit of Camelback Mountain

Stay Hydrated and Keep it Clean

On average, there is about one rescue every other day on this mountain. Most of the time, the main reason is due to dehydration. Since many visitors are from out of state, they aren't accustomed to the incredibly dry, arid climate of the desert. This can give someone the falls idea that they are not sweating as much. In reality, they are sweating just as much if not more, and evaporate very quickly. It is easy to get behind on your hydration, so make sure you come prepared and sip all the way through your adventure. The best solution is to bring a hydration backpack with 3L of water. it is also a good idea to throw in an electrolyte mix into your hydration bladder.

Always, always always, please, please, please practice Leave No Trace ethics in the outdoors. Our trails and outdoor spaces are precious, sensitive areas that can easily become damaged from neglect - either intentional or not. Pack in what you pack out. Stay on the trails. Leave it cleaner than you found it. Be a boss and #appreciateAZ!!

7 Essential Keto Hiking Snacks You Need to Pack

It is possible to stay in ketosis while hiking. There are a ton of ways to keep your belly full and boots marching along without sacrificing your diet. We have compiled a simple list of keto hiking snacks that could be picked up at most local grocery stores. If not, there is always Amazon to the rescue.

Not only does this list focus on keeping all of the snacks low carb, but it also keeps a prioritized eye on protein which is crucial for a succesful and active hikers diet. High protein hiking snacks not only keep the h-angers at bay, but are super beneficial for your body. Protein helps hikers regulate their metabolism, repair tired muscles, and boost their immune systems. Plus, you're not yourself when you're hungry - I should coin that line. 😂

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Keto Beef Jerky

Jerky made from beef is ideal for hiking. It's easy to carry and high in protein and one of the best high protein hiking snacks. The high salt content found in beef jerky is actually beneficial for hiking because it aids with hydration regulation. This keto hiking snack is packed with protein as well.  Any other snack option can't compare to the quantity of protein you get from even a little strip. Protein is good for your body and provides an energy boost while also satisfying hunger rapidly.

The question is, is jerky good for you? The quick answer is that it is debatable. Jerky can be healthy if it suits your dietary objectives and the sort of product you select. Dried meat snacks can be a good source of protein when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

Jerky skeptics can be a little out of date. With additional MSG, nitrates, and chemical preservatives, many individuals warn that they're rich in sodium. The truth is that jerky is no longer made in this manner.

Sodium, on the other hand, is a valid cause for concern. Although sodium is a necessary nutrient, it is far too easy to consume too much in the average American diet. According to the FDA, the daily recommended dosage for the average individual is 2,400mg, which is just over a teaspoon of table salt. 

How to Choose a Healthy Jerky

1. Look for jerky with fewer than 500mg sodium content per serving
2. Opt for brands that have no more than 5g of added sugar

Our Favorite Beef Jerky: People's Choice | Country Archer | Tillamook Country Smoker

Alternatives: Salmon Jerky | Turkey Jerky | Vegan Jerky | Mushroom Jerky

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Salami or Sausage

Find the hard salami brands with zero carbs and a paper casing. This method tastes better and keeps fresh longer. Summer sausage is another great option.

Our Favorite Picks: Criminelli Whiskey Salami | Dukes Shorty Sausages

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Hard Cheese Snacks (k)

Wrap the cheese to keep it from getting too greasy in your bag. You can also find cheese snacks that are freeze-dried and can be eaten like chips!

Another tasty one of our high protein hiking snacks that is easy to consume on the trail is string cheese. String cheese is high in protein and comes in a number of flavors, including Colby Jack, cheddar, and the most popular, mozzarella. It's great on its own or with meat or fish for a quick trail supper that doesn't require any preparation!

Cheese that is good for hiking typically has the following characteristics:

• It is a Firm or semi-firm cheese
• It has been aged
• It has a low moisture content

Our Favorite Picks: Horizon Organic | Mini Babybel

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Keto Protein Bars

What hiking snack list would be complete without energy bars? Just keep in mind that some of these protein bars contain a lot of sugar alcohols, which each body processes differently; we've found that eating more than half a bar per day has a significant impact on our ability to hike up the hills we need to. We've identified a handful that keep the sugar alcohols to a minimum and allow us to go on with our hike.

Our Favorite Picks: Perfect Keto Bars | Quest Bars

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Fatty's Beef Sticks (k)

There isn't much to say about these hefty sticks o'beef other than they are just what you need and want! They are the O.G. BIG meat snack. Packed with protein. Low in Sugar. Crafted with real ingredients. Cut out all of the marketing lingo and fancy packaging, Faty's serves up a fantastic chunk of meat, that's relatively healthy and keeps you moving on the trail!

Our Favorite Flavors: Jalapeno | Original | Pepperoni

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Avocado

These packable veggies provide a much needed bit of green into your daily diet and are such a great source of fat (and low net carbs).

Avocados are another great way to get plant-based healthy fats in your diet. They are crammed with vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B6, C, and E. Their anti-inflammatory properties will keep your body feeling fresh on mile ten.  

To make this a trail-friendly snack, bring a pocket knife and a small spoon. Bring a small garbage bag with you to pack out the pits and peels. Although fruit scraps may appear innocent, they can attract wildlife and disrupt the local environment.

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Keto Trail Mix

We put together our own mix of dark chocolates, almonds, and macadamia nuts. It keeps it simple, delicious and nutritious.

– 2 squares (1/6 a bar) Theo's dark chocolate
– 1 oz almonds
– 1 oz Macadamia nuts

This mixture was crunchy, salty, and chocolatey, and it was exactly right. Place this on the outside of your bag to melt the chocolate on hot days, then massage the bag to mix the nuts and coat them in chocolate. You've got a chocolate-covered nuts snack if it cools down! Grab a spoon and dig in if it stays melted.

Keto Hiking Snacks Wrap-up

We hope this helps navigate the grocery aisles with ease when loading up before your next hiking adventure. This is a simplified list of keto hiking snacks that shold serve as a starting point or baseline for any adventures, including backpacking.

If you are not keto, or hiking on a cheat day, check out our 7 High Protein Hiking Snacks artcile to make sure you're still getting the proper nutrients.

How to Hike to Cathedral Rock in Sedona, Arizona

So you're thinking of visiting Sedona? You're about to go on an incredible journey. The red pillars are among the most spectacular sights I've seen while hiking. It's one of the most beautiful spots I've ever seen. One of the best things to do in Sedona is hike Cathedral Rock which is why it made our Top 6 Hikes in Sedona.

Sedona is a place where you simply must go outside. Cathedral Rock Trail is one of my favorite Sedona hikes due to it's challenges. 

Everything you need to know about climbing Cathedral Rock in Sedona is right here!

Details of the crazy trees along this hike

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO HIKE THE CATHEDRAL ROCK TRAIL?

The greatest time to hike Cathedral Rock Trail is without a doubt in the hours leading up to dusk. There are great views of Sedona from the top, and it is even more magical at sunset.

If you plan on lingering at the summit until sunset, carry a headlamp to assist you in descending the trail. You'll need your hands to get down the trail's steeper sections.

The best time of year to hike cathedral rock is fall to early spring for cooler temps and less crowds.

HOW TO GET TO THE CATHEDRAL ROCK TRAILHEAD IN SEDONA

Cathedral Rock is one of the most popular Sedona hikes. There are multiple trailheads that lead to Cathedral Rock but we found Cathedral Rock Trailhead No. 170 to be the closest.
Cathedral Rock Trail Head Coordinates: 34°49’30.7″N 111°47’18.3″W

The parking lot is a lot busier during the more popular hiking times. Typically, the earlier you are there, the easier parking will be.

There is overflow parking further down on Back O’Beyond Road.

DIRECTIONS TO THE CATHEDRAL ROCK TRAILHEAD

Head south on the junction of 89A and 179. Drive 179 south for about 3.5 miles until you reach Back O’ Beyond Road on the right. Then go approximately .6 miles. The parking lot turnout is on the left.

Note: There is a $5 cost for the Red Rock Pass for parking. The America the Beautiful Pass is also a valid parking pass.

CATHEDRAL ROCK VIA THE BALDWIN TRAILHEAD

There is an alternate way to get to Cathedral Rock if you want a longer and more scenic hike. It starts from the Baldwin Trailhead. The trail is 3.7 miles round trip, and it takes about 1.5 hours to get to the top of Cathedral Rock.

This route will have wonderful views of the west side of Cathedral Rock as you start your hike.

CATHEDRAL ROCK HIKE

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO HIKE CATHEDRAL ROCK IN SEDONA?

Cathedral Rock in Sedona will take 30-40 minutes if you hike at a moderate to fast pace. It will take roughly 60 minutes to hike to the top if you hike slower, if you are hiking with children, if you take some breaks along the route, or if you stop to take photos.

I would recommend planning for about 3-4 hours for the entire adventure.

TRAIL STATS –

• Length: 1.2 miles
• Elevation Gain: 744 feet
• Route Type: Out & Back
• Difficulty: Moderate

CLIMBING CATHEDRAL ROCK IN SEDONA

In general, the Cathedral Rock route is simple to follow. Along the trail, there are basket cairns packed with rocks to direct you. The trail begins with a dried-up creek, followed by a short ascent to a plateau.

The plateau region offers stunning views over the Sedona area and is an excellent location for photographing Cathedral Rock in the background.

You'll climb up through the scramble from there. It's a little crag that you'll have to climb on your hands and knees to get to. This is the most difficult section of the hike, but if you go slow and steady, you'll be OK. The crack is about 40 feet long and has a 45-degree incline.

After the scramble, you'll come to another plateau, which is an excellent area to pause and snap photos if you want to. You'll continue climbing Cathedral Rock from there. There are few stone steps at the summit that will lead you to the top.

The end of the trail has a sign saying, “End of Trail”, but the views alone will tell you that you are there!

HOW DIFFICULT IS THE CATHEDRAL ROCK HIKE?

Although the hike to the summit of Cathedral Rock is short, it does include some steep sections. The Cathedral Rock Trail has certain sections where you must scramble over the rocks using your hands and feet.

For most people, it is not too much of a challenge to climb over the boulders, but this could be difficult depending on the physical abilities of those you are hiking with. The trail is well broken in with places for hand and footholds in the rock making the climb a little easier. Make sure you are wearing sturdy shoes or even better ---> CHACOS!!!

AT THE TOP

At the summit, there is a ledge that wraps around the top making a lot of places to explore and room for everyone. There is a very large drop-off at the top, but the ledge is pretty wide to have safe places for kids to sit.

The highlight and favorite viewpoint is off to the far right after you have reached the summit viewing area. There is a fun ledge that is a great place to take pictures and enjoy the views. It is known by some as the Edge of the World. There is a high and steep drop-off here so be careful.

HEADING DOWN THE TRAIL

There are some spots you will need to slide down on the rocks, but overall, the hike down is pretty easy going and simple to follow - just keep an eye out for the baslets of rocks that you passed by on the way up.

As you head down Cathedral Rock be sure to notice the beautiful views in the distance. Courthouse Butte will be visible as well as Sedona.

SEDONA GUIDED TOURS

Sedona is a lovely destination with plenty of options for independent exploration. However, with so many energy vortexes and gorgeous sites to visit, it can be tough to determine where to spend your time and easy to overlook many of Sedona's unique attractions.

If you want the best Sedona tour with a lot of flexibility, I suggest booking a guided tour with Sedona Spirit Journeys.

During this highly recommended tour, an experienced guide will teach about the area’s sacred nature and energy vortexes as well as the history and geology of the area. This is a great way to see everything Sedona has to offer.

The best part of it all? You pick your stops and then sit back and relax!

HIKING TIPS FOR CATHEDRAL ROCK IN SEDONA

• PLAN TO HIKE EARLY IN THE MORNING OR AT SUNSET - These two times of day will give you the best lighting and will help you beat the crowds.

• CHECK WHAT TIME SUNSET IS - Check to see what time sunset is expected for that day if you want to be there for sunset. To reach to the summit, you'll want to give yourself plenty of time. Depending on how quickly you hike, it normally takes 30-60 minutes.

• If you are planning on staying at the top of Cathedral Rock until sunset, make sure to bring some sort of flashlight to get down. Headlamps are the best so you can have your hands-free climbing down the rock.

• USE YOUR AMERICAN THE BEAUTIFUL ANNUAL PASS - The American the Beautiful Pass is honored for the daily pass for parking for all the Sedona trails.  If you do not have a pass, you can purchase a pass for $5.00 at the fee machines at designated trailheads.

• BE PREPARED - This includes sunscreen, plenty of water, and snacks. Don’t be fooled into thinking the hike is only a mile. The pathway is steep and narrow in places making it more difficult. There is also little to no shade on the trail.

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CAN YOU SEE CATHEDRAL ROCK IN SEDONA WITHOUT HIKING?

Whether you can see Cathedral Rock without hiking depends on what you are wanting to see. You can see the Cathedral Rock formation from below. Hikers will not be able to see the panoramic valley views or cradle of Cathedral Rock. You can only get to those by hiking to the top.

If you want to see Cathedral Rock from a distance, the Templeton Trail is a good alternative. Also, you can climb to the first plateau for a great picture area without making the steep ascent through the crack.

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IS CATHEDRAL ROCK TRAIL DOG FRIENDLY?

Cathedral Rock is dog-friendly if the dogs are kept on a leash. There are some big steps and boulders to climb through, so it is recommended that your dog have hiking experience. In my opinion, once you get to the rock-climbing portion it really is not an ideal hike for dogs unless your dog has a high level of physical abilities.

LET'S TALK ABOUT THE VORTEX

Sedona is a lovely destination to visit where you can easily connect with nature. Some visitors travel to Sedona in search of powerful vortex encounters. Cathedral Rock is said to be one of Sedona's four vortexes.

This vortex energy is one of many reasons why people hike the Cathedral Rock Trail. This energy is meant to calm, inspire and ground you.

No matter what your beliefs, Cathedral Rock is a place that will make you feel something. Whether it is outer-worldly spirits or awe and appreciation for the beautiful world we live in, a climb to the top is well worth your time.

OTHER HIKING TRAILS IN SEDONA

Hiking Cathedral Rock in Sedona is my favorite trails in the area but there is still plenty of other fun and beautiful hikes to explore in the area. We recommend picking a hike or two every day because it is such a beautiful area to enjoy.

BIRTHING CAVE

• Hiking the Birthing Cave in Sedona is another family-friendly hike that we enjoyed. The trail is pretty flat until the final descent into the cave. The cave is a fun place to play and has beautiful views of the Sedona area. Be sure to download the coordinates of the cave before heading out before cell coverage is limited.

BELL ROCK TRAIL

• This is a fun area to explore, especially if you’re hiking with kids in Sedona. The Bell Rock Loop is about a mile long with lots of fun places to explore along the way. You can climb all over Bell Rock with great views of the Sedona area.

DEVILS BRIDGE

• The Devils Bridge hike is another great and popular photo opportunity in Sedona. It is a natural sandstone bridge with great views of Sedona. The trailhead is easy to access with an easy hiking trail. The only downside is the trail is about 4.2 miles roundtrip.

SOLDIERS PASS

• This is a relatively easy trail until the final descent into the cave. It is a heavily trafficked trail with plenty to see along the way like the Seven Sacred Pools and sinkhole. This is a popular hike for families.

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MORE TO SEE!

Also, don’t forget that Sedona is only a two-hour drive to the Grand Canyon. You could easily add this in as a day trip during your time in Sedona! Visiting the Grand Canyon is a must-see in Arizona!

If you are going to be exploring the area around Sedona, Page is a fun city to visit. The Horseshoe Bend overlook and Antelope Canyon are fun places to explore.
How to Visit Horseshoe Bend in Arizona
Lower Antelope Canyon – Visiting the Famous Slot Canyon

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The 6 Best Hikes in Sedona You Need to Do

Here is a list of the Top 6 hikes in Sedona. Beautiful hikes can be found all throughout Sedona.

On my list of the top 6 hikes in Sedona, you'll find everything from a simple walking route to a heart-pumping hike up a mountain.

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Check out this Web Story!

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Top 6 Hikes in Sedona

Let's Get Into it

Cathedral Rock Trail

Cathedral Rock Hike (SEE TRAIL GUIDE HERE)

One of the best hikes in Sedona is Cathedral Rock. This hike is short and quick, and it's a lot of fun from start to end, with some rock scrambling and jaw-dropping views.

Expect no solitude on this trail due to its popularity. The hike to Cathedral rock and the reward of panoramic vistas are the highlights of this adventure.

On a much greater scale, it's very similar to the bell rock climb. You'll hike and scramble your way up to Cathedral rock from the trailhead until you reach the saddle between the sandstone massive spires. 

Pro Tip: This is one of the most popular hikes in Sedona and getting a parking space can be a real challenge, so get there early.

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Devils Bridge

In Sedona, this is a very popular hike. Hundreds of people hike to the bridge every day to take photos of the vistas and even propose.

Devils Bridge is only a 2-mile round-trip hike from the trailhead. It's largely level and fast, with a few series of inclines and stone steps right before reaching the bridge.

Getting to the trailhead is the tricky part. The Devils Bridge Trailhead is located on a dirt road that requires a high clearance vehicle to access. If you don't have a 4x4, you'll have to walk down Dry Creek Road from the Mezcal Trailhead.

Devils Bridge is the largest natural sandstone arch located in the Sedona area of Coconino National Forest.

Views from Broken Arrow Trail

Broken Arrow

The Broken Arrow Trail is one of the busiest short hikes in the area, because to its convenient location on the south side of Sedona, just off Highway 179, and its proximity to a popular jeep track.

Both routes rise gently up a large valley with colorful, jagged, eroded red cliffs and buttes on both sides, terminating at a low pass (Chicken Point) with good views south to Oak Creek Canyon and north to Sedona and the high mountains beyond.

The standard $5 Red Rock Pass is required for all parked vehicles.

Bell Rock

One of Sedona's most well-known features is Bell Rock. Hiking up to Bell Rock is a lot of fun, which is why it's one of Sedona's most popular climbs.

The ascent begins with trail signs and wire baskets filled with boulders for the first.25 miles. The wire baskets vanish as you go further up Bell Rock, but you can continue hiking higher by figuring out your own route.

Rock scrambling up to the top levels of bell rock is part of the fun of this hike. It's entirely up to you how far you want to go. You won't be able to climb all the way to the summit of the rock, but you can get quite close.

It is quite clear how it received its name; it looks like a giant red bell melting into the landscape.

Soldiers Pass

There are a number of reasons why the Soldier Pass Trails is one of Sedona's top hikes. For one thing, it's a short and simple hike. But it also passes along some rad features like the seven sacred pools, the Devil's Kitchen Sinkhole, and if you can find it, the famous Soldier Pass Cave.

West Fork Trail

The super-easy and insanely picturesque hike follows Oak Creek. Because of its shady route and tranquility, this hike in Sedona is unlike any other in the area.

You stroll along the creek for virtually the entire hike and get to see how the creek chiseled away the canyon walls. It resembles the subway in Zion National Park in a lot of ways.

This is a nice hike to do on a hot day in Sedona because you're in the shade of the trees.

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What to Bring on your Top 6 Hikes in Sedona Adventures

• Footwear – Chacos
• Hydration – Camelback Hydration Backpack (Bring lots of water!)
• Camera – Canon EOS R
• UV - Sunglasses / Hat / Sunscreen

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Echo Canyon Trail on Camelback Mountain - What You Need to Know

Hike Echo Canyon Trail - Camelback Mountain

Camelback Mountain via Echo Canyon Trail is a 2.5 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Scottsdale, Arizona that offers scenic views and is rated as difficult.

Getting There:

 

The parking lot is off Squaw Peak drive and leads to many more hiking trails in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. The route starts on a short connector trail and then goes straight up to the summit.

The Trail:

The trail begins from the top of the parking lot, just beyond the restrooms and benches. An easy incline at first, the path passes a smaller rock formation, then approaches the base of a larger one known as the “Praying Monk”. If you look up from the Echo Canyon trail, you may see roped-up rock climbers scaling the face above you. And if you turn around and look the other way, you can see Piestewa Peak rising up behind you.

At around 0.4 miles the trail picks up with a set of wooden stairs. Soon after this, the route becomes so steep that there are metal railings anchored into the mountain to safely assist hikers in this potentially dicey situation.

At first, a metal pole will only be on your left-hand side but soon after there will be a pole in the middle and then to the right. From my experience, the pole on your left (as you are going up) is the best pole to hang onto. There are carved out foot notches in the rock that will help your feet up. The other poles will not have these little notches, so it feels a little uncertain to walk on since it’s so steep and smooth you can easily slide on it, even with good gripping shoes.

Once at the top of this steep section, you might think the tough part is over — but it’s only just begun! The trail now will require scrambling pretty much up all the way to the top. For this reason, you might want to consider bringing gloves along, although it isn’t completely necessary.

There are steep piles of bigger rocks that you will need to hike up. At times, it feels as if you’re back in that aquarium climbing up big pieces of gravel to get the relief of freedom up at the top. There is a small dip just before the one mile mark, then the trail rises steady and even steeper as it nears the summit. It’s easy to get a little off track in the last section – just keep looking for the path of least resistance.

The trail makes one final bend to the left as it leads you to the top! Take in the awesome 360-degree view of the valley, with Piestewa close by to the northwest. But make sure you pay attention to which way you came up – it’s easy to mistakenly go down the wrong trail. When you are done soaking in the views, return down the way you came up.

Echo Canyon Trail Map:

Nearby Adventures

• Hike Pinnacle Peak

• Mountain Bike Pemberton Trail

• Top 5 Hikes in Phoenix

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Camelback Mountain Hiking Resources

• Overview of the Camelback Mountain Trails from Phoenix Parks and Recreation. Best resource for the latest information on closures, maintenance and other official notices.

• Visit Phoenix’ guide to Camelback Mountain

• Please #RecreateResponsibly and Leave No Trace

The 5 Best Hikes In and Around Phoenix

Here is my list of the Top 5 hikes in Phoenix. Beautiful hikes can be found all throughout Phoenix. You don't even have to leave the city boundaries!

Within a short drive of the Greater Phoenix area, there is a terrific trail for every skill level.

On my list of the top 5 hikes in Phoenix, you'll find everything from a simple walking route to a heart-pumping hike up a mountain.

Check out this Quick Web Story!

Top 5 Hikes in Phoenix - Let's Get Into it

Echo Canyon Summit

Echo Canyon Summit

Echo Canyon - Camelback Mountain

This short yet picturesque hike in Scottsdale is the most well-known and popular hike in the Phoenix area.

This trail is an intense and difficult anaerobic hike the entire 1.23 miles to the summit. It ascends approximately 1,280 ft, from 1,424 ft above sea level to 2,704 ft.

Bring lots of water, and if you're not a seasoned hiker, enlist the help of a local guide or a buddy to show you the ropes. The trek will take around 2 to 3 hours round trip.

Only experienced hikers or those in the company of someone who understands what to anticipate should undertake this trip. It's steep, with portions where you'll have to rely on your hands and feet. On the harder/steeper sections, there are handrails. These help many hikers but also add points of congestion.

The initial part of the trek is a moderate ascent to a saddle. The next section is a hard ascent up rocks that follows a wall up a series of stairs. To aid hikers, a handrail runs along the length of this stretch.

The Echo Trail is regarded as extremely tough. This hike has the highest number of rescues and deaths per year of any hike in a major urban region in the United States.

Top 5 Hikes in Phoenix - Piestewa Peak

Summit Trail - Piestewa Peak

Piestewa Peak Park has a variety of trails that range from simple to brutal. Serious hikers go for the Summit Trail. It is considered the cousin to Echo Canyon on Camelback, though they have a very different "feel" to the trail and, obviously, views.

Piestewa Peak is nearly in the heart of Phoenix, and it can be viewed from almost anywhere in the city. As a result, the path to the top is quite popular, so expect large crowds of walkers, hikers, and trail runners.

You'll be rewarded with views of Camelback, the Superstitions, the White Tanks Mountains, and the red slopes of Papago Park.

The route is well-designed, with handrails in certain places to assist with the numerous stairwells. On the way back, you should expect a sequence of knee-jarring steps down.

Parking for the trails is limited. Arrive early in the day. At the trailhead, there are restrooms and drinking fountains.

Top 5 Hikes in Phoenix - Siphon Draw to Flatiron

Siphon Draw Trail - Superstition Mountains

The Flatiron Summit via Siphon Draw is recommended for experienced hikers in good physical condition who want a challenge.

If you're thinking about taking on this hike, keep in mind that it's a 6.2-mile round-trip adventure with nearly 3,000-foot elevation gain, and much of it is in direct sunlight. The roundtrip usually takes 4-6 hours.

At the summit, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree vistas and a profound sense of accomplishment.

White and blue dots indicate the main trail. The path is rough in places, with gravel, and some boulder climbing is necessary.

Lost Dutchman State Park is home to the Flat Iron Summit Trail. There is a daily charge to park here. Camping in the park is a practical alternative if you want to get an early start on this adventure.

Pinnacle Peak - McDowell Mountains

This hike is one of Scottsdale's most popular and busiest. It is filled with beautiful surroundings and relative simplicity. No list of the Top 5 hikes in Phoenix could exist without it!

A slow rise up a boulder-covered ridge studded with Sonoran Desert vegetation, marked by tiny signposts, leads to a breathtaking perspective of the surrounding region. Tom's Thumb, Troon North Golf Club, and the Four Seasons Resort can be seen from the summit.

This is a 3.5-mile out-and-back trek with a 1,300-foot elevation gain. This path attracts a diverse range of hikers, from fully equipped trail runners to those out for a stroll in their flip flops, and even some pausing to practice yoga postures along the way. Depending on the season, you may see some rock climbers attempting to reach the summit.

This trek has almost no shade. It is best to start early in the day to avoid the heat and congestion.

A fully-staffed tourist center with washrooms and information is located at the base.

Top 5 Hikes in Phoenix - Tom's Thumb Trail in the McDowell Mountains

Tom's Thumb Trail - McDowell Mountains

The Tom's Thumb Trailhead is used by a wide range of people as a starting point for their adventures. Explorers enjoy the aerobic exercise that comes with climbing over 1,300 feet in just 2.4 miles (each way). They're rewarded with panoramic city views at the summit, which give them well-deserved bragging rights for months.

This route is 4.9 miles long and has an elevation gain of around 1,374 feet.

Set out early in the morning to beat the heat. A facility with bathrooms, a big covered outdoor space, and information is located at the trailhead.

What to Bring on your Top 5 Hikes in Phoenix Adventures

• Footwear – Chacos

• Hydration – Camelback Hydration Backpack (Bring lots of water!)

• Camera – Canon EOS R

• UV - Sunglasses / Hat / Sunscreen (there is no shade on this entire trail for the majority of the day)

NEARBY ADVENTURES

• Hike Pinnacle Peak

• Mountain Bike Pemberton Trail

• Hike Tom's Thumb Trail

• Hike Carney Springs Trail

• Hike Echo Canyon Trail

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