Camelback Mountain is one of greater Phoenix's most popular trails. This short, steep trail leads hikers to some of the best views in all of Phoenix. The trail itself is entirely exposed to the elements and difficult at best. Those able to reach the summit are rewarded with sweeping views of Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe, Fountain Hills and beyond.

The Camelback hump is comprised of Precambrian granite

Barrel cactus can be found among basalt boulders on the Camelback Mountain Trail

Views of downtown Phoenix from the summit of Camelback Mountain

The Cholla Trail route to the summit is entirely exposed to the elements

A Palo Verde tree offers a small oasis of shade along the Cholla Trail

Rock scrambling is required to reach the summit of Camelback Mountain

Looking towards the Camelback Mountain summit from the Cholla Trail

Basalt - rock of volcanic origin is prevalent not only on Camelback Mountain, but throughout Phoenix

Camelback Mountain in a hazy morning - seen from the McDowell Sonoran Preserve