Hike up Camelback mountain using the Cholla trail in Phoenix, Arizona
Camelback mountain is a popular hike, for good reason. The views from the top are spectacular and the hiking is fun. Taking the Cholla trail from the East side of the mountain requires a bit of a walk along city streets through a private neighborhood (no parking here!) to get to the trailhead. Park along the west side of Invergordon Road. and take the short 0.4 miles to the trailhead. Please be respectful of the neighborhood so we can continue to have public access to this trail.
The Cholla Trail is less steep and a bit longer (3.5 miles round trip) than the Echo Canyon trail. From the trailhead, there are excellent views of the Phoenician resort as well as some of the finer houses and resorts surrounding the mountain. As you climb, views abound from right and left. The trail is well marked and easy to follow for the first 1.5 miles. The last 0.25 miles require some scrambling. Follow the blue paint dots and yellow reflectors on the rock to stay on the route. Enjoy the views from the top!
