Tour Overview
Climb Echo Canyon's hand-over-hand scramble to Camelback's 2,707-foot summit, with a certified guide setting the pace and 360-degree Valley views as the payoff.
Summit at 2,707 Feet
Reach the highest point in Phoenix, with 360-degree views across the Valley of the Sun and surrounding ranges.
Guided Scramble
A Wilderness First Responder or EMT guide sets a sustainable pace and coaches the hand-over-hand sections.
Water, Snacks & Permits
Bottled water, trail snacks, a lightweight backpack, park permits, and post-hike refreshments are included.
The Experience
Take on one of Phoenix’s most challenging hikes with a guided ascent of Camelback Mountain, climbing to its 2,707-foot summit for sweeping views across the Valley of the Sun. Your guide will meet you at either the Echo Canyon or Cholla Trailhead, depending on your booking, for a safety briefing and gear check before the climb begins. The route follows steep switchbacks before reaching exposed rock sections that require hand-over-hand scrambling. Along the way, your guide will help you navigate the terrain and share insights into the mountain’s geology and distinctive desert environment. This is a demanding hike, with approximately 1,300 feet of elevation gain over 2.5 to 3 miles round trip.
At the summit, take a break to enjoy the 360-degree views of Phoenix, Scottsdale, and the surrounding mountain ranges before retracing your route back down. The experience lasts approximately three to four hours and includes a professional guide certified as a Wilderness First Responder or EMT, bottled water, energy-dense trail snacks, a lightweight backpack, required permits, and post-hike refreshments. This very strenuous hike is suitable for active hikers ages 10 and older who are comfortable with heights, steep grades, and scrambling over uneven rock. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good traction are mandatory; bring sunglasses, a hat, and sun-protective layers. Early departures are scheduled during warmer months to avoid the midday heat.
Pricing & Group Rates
- Solo Hiker (1 guest) $220
- Per Person, Groups of 2 to 3 $145
- Per Person, Groups of 4 or More $120
- Booking note: staging is directly at the trailhead. Roundtrip resort transportation is available for select private groups at $295, subject to vehicle availability; contact us to arrange. Prices do not include 8.1% sales tax.
- Private & Large Groups: Contact us for groups over 10, custom group pricing, and private departures.
Essential Tour FAQs
Where do we meet for the Camelback summit hike? ▼
Your guide meets you at the Echo Canyon or Cholla Trailhead parking area, with the specific lot confirmed when you book. Parking fills early, so arrive ahead of your start time or take a rideshare to the trailhead. Your guide calls the afternoon or evening before the hike to confirm timing and answer questions.
How hard is the scrambling? ▼
The route covers 2.5 to 3 miles round trip with about 1,300 feet of gain, including hand-over-hand sections on the upper mountain. It is strenuous and best for active hikers ages 12 and up with good balance and stamina. This hike is not recommended for guests with a fear of heights, heart or knee conditions, or poor balance.
What about heat, weather, and exposure? ▼
Tours run year-round, with morning starts only because the upper mountain is fully exposed. October through April departs at 8 AM; May through September moves to 6 AM. Lightning, heavy rain, or excessive-heat warnings can delay or reschedule a tour, and 360 Adventures makes that call. Start hydrating 24 hours ahead and carry electrolytes for the climb.
What footwear and gear are required? ▼
Sturdy closed-toe athletic shoes or hiking boots with good tread and grip are required; sandals are not allowed. Wear moisture-wicking layers and bring sunglasses, a hat, and a camera that stows easily, since your hands are needed on the scramble. Bottled water, trail snacks, and a lightweight backpack are provided.
What is this tour's cancellation and rescheduling policy? ▼
Strict 72-hour window. Send cancellations or changes in writing through our contact form; replies to your confirmation email cannot be processed. More than 72 hours out, you receive a full refund minus card processing fees; inside 72 hours or a no-show, the booking is charged in full. If 360 Adventures cancels for severe conditions, you receive a 100% refund including fees.
Do you have more questions? Click HERE for more details.
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