The desert trails that climb Camelback Mountain are home to countless animal and plant species. Echo Canyon is a colorful trek—one best approached by experienced hikers. At 2,704 feet above sea level, the 2.5-mile summit trail turns through red sandstone cliffs, its terminus overlooking Phoenix. Layered sandstone composes the head of Camelback Mountain; the hump is mostly granite. Over the years, the area has been claimed by many, designated as an Indian Reservation in the late 1800s and held by private owners from 1940 to 1960.

Rabbits, lizards, snakes, and squirrels find solace in their respective nooks on the mountainside. Palo verde trees, which burst with fiery yellow blossoms during their flowering season, shade the mountain's cacti in summer and warm its prickly plants in winter.

Visitor Information

Contact Away