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Camelback Hike
4.8 ★★★★★ 262 Google reviews · Running trail in Phoenix, Arizona · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Camelback Hike's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Popular mountain hike featuring challenging terrain and scenic vistas, including city panoramas.
What runners say about Camelback Hike
“The views are STUNNING and throughout - you don’t have to get to the top to have your breath taken away (also the steep climb will do that too).”
Amazing views at the top! It is a very challenging hike! Be sure you have your hands free when doing this hike! I met a few people who brought drinks and no pack to carry their drink. I saw some people carrying their drinks but a good chunk of the hike is sprawling.
Could be one of the most challenging hikes in the area. About 1.3 miles to the peak, 1,296 elevation gain. Our hike started at 11AM. I used 64 oz water with temps in low 70's and sunny. Boulder scrambling, slick rock, sand, gravel. Hiking boots recommended. There are runners along the trail.
This is a good hike but as others mentioned have your hands free you need them a lot. Even some thin gloves would help. I went on a Sunday and it is very crowded. The parking lot fills quickly but I was there at 8:00am and after 5 minutes they let more cars in. Careful of the little rocks on the big rocks.
Amazing hike, please go up prepared. This is for experienced hikers. I am a moderately paced hiker in reasonable shape. Here’s my best guidance for a safe and optimal time.
Trail conditions & character
“Very tough to climb but worth it Bring good hiking shoes and try to avoid the sun the best time would be sunrise would recommend you bring gloves to protect your hands”
“The views are STUNNING and throughout - you don’t have to get to the top to have your breath taken away (also the steep climb will do that too).”
“The parking lot fills quickly but I was there at 8:00am and after 5 minutes they let more cars in.”
“Bathrooms at the beginning of the trail and a nice amount of people hike it on the regular.”
Plan your run at Camelback Hike
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitephoenix.gov
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 5 AM–8 PM |
| Tuesday | 5 AM–8 PM |
| Wednesday | 5 AM–8 PM |
| Thursday | 5 AM–8 PM |
| Friday | 5 AM–8 PM |
| Saturday | 5 AM–8 PM |
| Sunday | 5 AM–8 PM |
Running trails near Phoenix
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Echo Canyon Trailhead
4.9 ★★★★★ 2,830 reviews
Trailhead featuring a parking lot, restrooms & the start of a trail leading up Camelback Mountain.
Echo Canyon Recreation Area
4.8 ★★★★★ 2,966 reviews
Sizable park housing Camelback Mountain & its 3 hiking trails, free parking & recreation area.
Camelback Mountain
4.8 ★★★★★ 2,062 reviews
Rocky hiking destination with two major trails featuring steep elevation gains & sweeping views.
Quartz Ridge Trailhead (#8A) Phoenix Mountain Reserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 141 reviews
Peak with scenic trails popular for hiking.
