Camelback Mountain, located near Scottsdale, Arizona, is a prominent landmark and a popular outdoor recreation destination. The mountain's name is derived from its shape, resembling the hump and head of a kneeling camel. Just 20 minutes away from downtown Phoenix, it draws thousands of visitors each year, many of whom come to hike its challenging trails.

The mountain features two demanding trails, Echo Canyon and Cholla Trail, that ascend 1,420 feet to the summit. From the peak, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding Phoenix and Scottsdale areas, including a mountain-ringed horizon and the diverse neighborhoods stretching out in all directions. These trails are not for the faint-hearted; they're considered strenuous due to their steep grades. The average hike takes about 1.5 to 3 hours, covering distances of 1.14 to 1.4 miles depending on the trail chosen.

Camelback Mountain's Echo Canyon Recreation Area also hosts a 2.6-mile out-and-back trail near Scottsdale, which is particularly popular among hiking enthusiasts. The best times to visit are from October through April, avoiding the scorching summer heat.

Besides its hiking trails, the mountain offers rock climbing opportunities, with the Praying Monk—a red sandstone rock formation—as a notable spot for climbers.

The history of Camelback Mountain is rich and deep-rooted. Evidence, such as a cave on the northern side, suggests that the area was considered sacred by the prehistoric Hohokam culture before they abandoned it in the 14th century. The mountain was included in a reservation for the Salt River Pima and Maricopa American Indian tribes in 1879, a designation later reversed to allow non-Indian area residents access to Salt River water. Efforts to protect the mountain as a natural preserve began in the early 1910s, culminating in its designation as a Phoenix city park in 1968.

Moreover, Camelback Mountain's geological profile is fascinating, with a mixture of Precambrian granite and red sedimentary sandstone from the Oligocene epoch. The park at 4707 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, opens from sunrise to 10:30 PM, offering ample time for visitors to explore and enjoy its natural beauty.