Echo Canyon Trail Remains Closed as Phoenix Addresses Unstable Boulders

Echo Canyon Trail at Camelback Mountain will remain closed as the City of Phoenix works to resolve safety concerns, including three unstable boulders identified following recent storms. 

In mid-October, the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department temporarily closed Echo Canyon Trail to investigate possible erosion. Since then, the City has consulted with a team of geotechnical and civil engineers and finalized a plan to stabilize and remove three loose boulders. 

Work to address the safety concerns posed by the unstable boulders began the week of November 24 and will continue into the week of December 8.  While there has been progress towards stabilizing the large boulders, engineers have confirmed they remain a safety hazard in their current state. 

Ongoing work the week of December 8 will include:

• Coring multiple holes into each boulder and injecting expanding grout. Under pressure, the grout will cause the boulders to safely separate.
• Restoring the site to its natural state following completion of the work. 

This plan prioritizes public safety and ensures that all work is completed as efficiently and minimally invasive as possible. Due to safety concerns, the Echo Canyon Trail will continue to be closed until further notice. 

We understand how important Echo Canyon is to residents and visitors alike,” said Cynthia Aguilar, Parks and Recreation Director. “We’re taking a careful, methodical approach to restore Echo Canyon, and we appreciate the community’s patience while we ensure the trail is safe again.” 

While trail safety work is underway, the Parks and Recreation Department is also taking the opportunity to complete additional trailhead improvements, including restroom renovations and parking lot maintenance. By coordinating these improvements with the trail safety work, the City will prevent additional closures and ensure the trail is ready to reopen as soon as possible.

Until Echo Canyon Trail is reopened, the Parks and Recreation Department encourages residents to visit other popular hiking destinations, including Cholla Trail at Camelback Mountain, Piestewa Peak, North Mountain, Dreamy Draw, Lookout Mountain and South Mountain Park and Preserve.

To find a hiking destination near you, visit phoenix.gov/parks/trails.