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| - It's been three years my last review of Camelback Mountain so it's definitely time for an update since they've improved a few things.
* Added more parking spaces ( there are now double the amount parking space and double the amount of traffic.)
* Added great restrooms! No more porta-potty's!
* There are now 4 water fountains!
* Bike racks for about 20-30 bicycles.
* Banned dogs on the Echo Canyon Trail. (not all dogs are friendly or able to take on the grueling hike. Also, new vegetation in the parking area and the 1st 1/4 mile of the hike/climb require time to get deep roots.
* Ranger station at the entrance.
* Private drive for the Echo Canyon residents.
* New round-about for flow of traffic onto McDonald Drive.
And now for a few of the new challenges that have come with these previously mentioned improvements.
* Residents of Echo Canyon still have difficulty accessing their homes from traffic backing up onto McDonald Drive, especially on weekends and holidays.
* Parking is still an issue due to the iconic status of Camelback Mountain to both residents and tourists.
* The parking opens at sunrise, which is far too late for many residents that would often hike to the summit and be done by sunrise, thus alleviating some of the parking challenges.
I enjoy the hike / run / climb of Camelback and do it about 3 days per week. While the renovations were going on last year, I started hiking Piestewa Peak at the Phoenix Mountain Preserves and do appreciate it when there are time constraints.
Please plan ahead. Bring plenty of water ( 1 quart for every hour.) Most people that are in fair shape require 2-3 hours for the entire hike. Wear a hat. Apply sunscreen prior to the hike. Stay on the trail. Stay to the right. Don't stop in the middle of the trail to converse. If you can make it to the summit in under an hour for your first, that is an impressive accomplishment.
Camelback Mountain's Cholla trail near The Phoenician is more often an easier access point and although it is a tad longer, the elevation changes are much more gradual. You can bring your canine friends there, as long as they are on a leash. There isn't a restroom, parking lot or even a water fountain at the Trailhead due to it's location in a residential neighborhood.
Plan your time wisely for parking, hiking and enjoying Camelback Mountain, it is definitely worth it.
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