Guided Camelback Mountain Summit Hike in Phoenix, Arizona

Tour Highlights

• Summit Success: Reach the 2,707-foot peak for the highest vantage point in the city.
• Technical Scrambling: Navigate the famous hand-over-hand sections on the upper mountain.
• Expert Navigation: Follow a professional guide to ensure the safest and most exciting route.
• Sonoran Scenery: Observe unique desert flora including saguaro cacti and creosote bushes.

Tour Itinerary

We meet at the trailhead for a brief safety orientation and gear check before beginning the steep ascent. Your guide sets a sustainable pace as we transition from groomed switchbacks into the technical rock sections. We will utilize hand-over-hand movements to navigate the upper boulders while discussing the local geology. Along the way, explore the world-famous Echo Canyon Trail, including the warm-up saddle with Paradise Valley and Scottsdale views, the 75 railroad ties, the 50-degree Twin Rail sections and the upper boulder fields. On the descent, discover Secret Cave, Surface of Mars Butte, Red Rock Slope, the Hohokam ceremonial grotto, Giant Beehive and Hidden Chopper Pad.

The summit provides ample time to enjoy 360-degree views of the Valley of the Sun and surrounding ranges. After a rest and water break, we begin the controlled descent back down the same route. We conclude the tour back at the parking area, ensuring everyone is hydrated and accounted for.

Pricing

Solo Hiker: $220 (one guide)
2-3 Hikers: $145/ea (one guide)
4-10 Hikers: $120/ea (1:6 guide ratio)
Pricing includes all permitting and land use fees.
For groups 11+ please reach out through our contact page.

Requirements

• Skill Level: Very Strenuous; requires good balance and physical stamina.
• Minimum Age: This hike is suitable for children 10+
• Walking: 2.5 to 3.0 miles on extremely steep, uneven terrain.
• Elevation: Approximately 1,300 feet of vertical gain.
• Special Requirements: Sturdy, closed-toe athletic shoes or hiking boots are mandatory.

What's Included

• Professional Guide: Every adventure is led by a Wilderness First Responder or EMT certified expert and local hiking guide.
• Hydration: Bottled water.
• Snacks: Healthy, energy-dense trail snacks; we can accommodate dietary preferences.
• Gear: Lightweight backpack for each hiker (or use one of ours if you don't have your own).
• Fees: All required park entry and commercial permits.
• Refreshments: Beverages and trail snacks following your adventure.

What to Bring

• Closed-toe footwear such as running, cross-training or hiking shoes with good tread and grip.
• Long-sleeved layers for sun protection and in case it's chilly.
• Sunglasses.
• Hat or cap.

Season & Departure Times

This tour operates year-round. Rendezvous times vary by season - departures are between 5:00 AM and 7:00 AM during the warmer months to avoid the midday heat, with 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM departures during the cooler months. Typical duration is 3-4 hours.

Important Notes

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED: Please book at least 48 hours in advance to secure your preferred date and guide. This is a physically demanding activity; please ensure all participants are comfortable with heights and steep grades.

Please note that the parking lot is sometimes full and you may have to wait for a spot; getting a ride to the trailhead is highly recommended. Uber and Lyft drop-off and pick-up service are available.

WEATHER: Check conditions before you go - see the National Weather Service forecast for Camelback Mountain.

Cancellation Policy

This tour has a 72-hour cancellation policy. Please read your confirmation email for details.