Camelback Mountain - Cholla Trail
Phoenix Metro · Hard
The Camelback Mountain - Cholla Trail is a hard hike in Phoenix Metro, Arizona: 2.6 miles round trip with 1,264 ft of elevation gain, typically completed in 2-3 hours. No dogs allowed. No entry fee. Best hiked October through April.
About Camelback Mountain - Cholla Trail
Cholla Trail is the eastern approach to Camelback Mountain's summit, and while many locals consider it the "easier" route, that reputation is misleading. Yes, the first mile is more gradual than Echo Canyon's brutal opening, but the final push to the top involves some of the most exposed and technical scrambling you will find on any urban trail in the country. The trailhead sits in a residential area of Scottsdale, and parking is extremely limited.
The city added a small lot that holds maybe 30 cars, and street parking is restricted. The trail begins on a wide, well-graded path that winds through typical Sonoran Desert landscape. Saguaros, barrel cactus, palo verde trees, and brittlebush line both sides of the trail.
This opening stretch gives a false sense of ease as you gain elevation gradually along the hump of the camel. About a mile in, the trail narrows and you hit the ridgeline. This is where Cholla gets serious.
The path becomes a narrow spine of rock with steep drop-offs on both sides. On windy days, this section can feel genuinely intimidating. You are walking along the backbone of the camel with nothing but air on either side and sweeping views of the Arcadia neighborhood, Scottsdale, and the McDowell Mountains.
The final quarter mile to the summit is where Cholla earns its "Hard" rating. You face a near-vertical rock scramble that requires using your hands constantly. There are no handrails on this side like Echo Canyon has.
The rock is smooth in places and can be slippery, especially if there is any moisture. You will see painted arrows and dots on the rock to guide you along the correct route. Follow them closely because taking a wrong line here can put you in a sketchy situation.
The summit experience is identical to Echo Canyon since both trails meet at the top of Camelback's 2,704-foot peak. The views are spectacular in every direction, and on winter mornings the air is often clear enough to see mountain ranges fifty miles away. A few tips from a regular: the Cholla side gets afternoon shade slightly earlier than Echo Canyon, making it marginally better for late afternoon hikes in the cooler months.
However, the ridgeline section is fully exposed and brutally hot in summer. Bring grippy shoes, at least a liter of water, and be honest about your fitness level. This trail has a deceptively gentle start that lures people in, only to present serious technical terrain that has resulted in numerous rescues.
If you have never scrambled on rock before, consider starting with Piestewa Peak to build your confidence first.
Getting There
Trailhead Address: 6131 E Cholla Ln, Scottsdale, AZ 85253
Best Time to Hike
Best Season: October through April
For the most comfortable experience on Camelback Mountain - Cholla Trail, plan your hike during the recommended season. In the warmer months, start early in the morning to avoid peak heat, especially on exposed desert trails. Always check current weather conditions and trail status before heading out.
What to Bring
Based on the hard difficulty rating and Phoenix Metro location, here is a recommended packing list for this hike:
- Plenty of water (at least 1 liter per hour of hiking)
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good traction
- Trail snacks and energy bars
- First aid kit with blister care supplies
- Fully charged phone with downloaded trail map
- Trekking poles for steep terrain
- Extra layers for elevation changes
- Headlamp in case of delayed return
- Emergency whistle and signaling mirror
- Electrolyte packets or sports drink mix
- Cooling towel for extreme heat