Things You Should Never Do in Arizona, According to Scottsdale Local

Failing to properly prepare for a hike can have disastrous consequences.

Camelback Mountain is one of the most famous hikes in the Scottsdale area.

Jill Schildhouse


Scottsdale is known for its miles of incredible hiking trails, many of which lead travelers through stunning desert reserves or on steep mountains.

But one of the biggest mistakes tourists make is thinking that hiking in the desert is the same as hiking in the woods. It’s not.

There is often very little shade, if any, so you will want to wear a hat and lots of sunscreen. You will also need to wear proper footwear which means no flip flops as the landscape is rocky and dusty.

Arizona’s dry air and brutal temperatures mean you’ll need to bring a lot more water than you think. A good rule of thumb is to always turn back when you’ve run halfway through your water supply, advice you’ll likely see posted at some starting points.

On the trails, be on the lookout for rattlesnakes, as they blend into the landscape, and avoid brushing against the sharp cactus needles.

Camelback Mountain Hike, one of the most emblematic monuments in Scottsdale, is like a badge of honor. However, few visitors realize that both trails, Echo Canyon and Cholla, are very difficult. You have to climb on your hands to climb to the top.

Once at the top, the view is well worth the climb. If you choose to do the camel trek in the summer, start at sunrise and finish by mid-morning to avoid heat exhaustion.

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