Camelback Mountain

Hiking in Scottsdale: 9 Best Trails

"The kneeling camel profile of this red sandstone and granite mountain is the Phoenix-Scottsdale region's most beloved natural feature — and a challenging must-climb destination for hikers. Two summit trails ascend the mountain: the Echo Canyon Trail, which starts at the 'camel's head' (you can even make out the eyelash) and the less-crowded Cholla Trail beginning at the 'tail.' Either way, steep, rocky terrain and slick patches make the hike difficult. With both trails connecting at the peak, 2,704 feet above sea level, it's possible to traverse the full ridgeline from trailhead to trailhead (or would it be head to tail?)." - Travel + Leisure Editors