Due to forecasted storms, free sand for sandbags is now available on a first-come, first-serve basis at nine City of Phoenix Parks.
Cholla Trailhead Trails
Know Before You Go
Camelback Mountain gets its name from the unique silhouette it casts on the Valley skyline. It is considered one of the nation's top hiking destinations and attracts visitors from around the world. However, the two main trails that comprise the vast majority of hiking opportunities are rated Extremely Difficult; subjecting hikers to steep elevation gains, uneven terrain, and a path that is unprotected from the elements. Only experienced hikers, whom are following "Take a Hike. Do it Right" guidelines, during optimal weather conditions, should attempt to hike to the summit that sits 2,704 feet above sea level and provides exceptional views of the Valley.
History and Area Information
Camelback Mountain saw increased encroachment from private development until the 1960s. The Preservation of Camelback Mountain Foundation, led by Barry Goldwater, helped to ensure the area's protection in 1968. By that time much of the mountain was already surrounded by residential development which cut Camelback Mountain off from other natural spaces, thus limiting the number of large animals found in the area today. However, Smaller animals including cottontail rabbits, lizards, Harris antelope squirrels, a variety of birds and snakes (including venomous rattlesnakes) are regularly encountered.
Plant species found at Camelback Mountain are typical of those found in the lower Sonoran Desert and are dominated by the cacti species such as the saguaro, barrel, hedgehog, pincushion, jumping cholla, christmas, staghorn, cholla and prickly pear. Tree species include palo verde, mesquite and ironwood, along with the ocotillo plant.