Camelback Mountain is one of the largest landscape features in the valley, laying right in the middle of the Phoenix skyline. Just minutes from the Phoenix Airport, CamelBack Mountain has some of the most intrepid climbing, with routes carved on the surface of sedimentary sandstone.
On the North side of the Mountain you will find Echo Canyon, it’s Praying Monk formation (90 ft) dominating the skyline. The large head walls below also offer an expanse of climbing from 5.2 all the way to 5.10d. But beware, these routes are stout, ask for a belay on Suicide Direct!
Areas Within CamelBack Mountain:
- Headwall
- The Neck
- Gargoyle Wall
- Praying Monk
To Access:
Hike up main echo canyon trail to the saddle, then break off right to the obvious head wall (4 bolts) and proceed up the hillside to the east side of the formation.
Our Favorites Include:
- East Face 5.3 Praying Monk
- Donamatrix 5.7 Lower Head wall
- Suicide Direct 5.) Western Head wall
- Hart Route 5.4 Gargoyle Wall
TIP:
Two hiking trails ascend 1,280 feet (390 m) to the peak of Camelback Mountain.
The Echo Canyon Trail is 1.2 miles (1900 m) and the Cholla Trail is 1.4 mi (2300 m).
Both trails are considered strenuous with steep grades. The hiking path has dirt, gravel,
boulders, and some handrail-assisted sections.
The average hike requires a round trip time of 1.5 to 3 hours (Depending on how fit you are)
BOULDERING:
Although not a well-known Bouldering destination, the rocks around the bottom of the Echo Canyon in Camelback Park are varied and challenging. With thin moves and the typical gritty edges of the area, the bouldering is delicate in areas and spotters are recommended.
Bobbies Rock
Echo Canyon Trail Boulders
West Boulders