Popular Phoenix hiking trail Cholla Trail at Camelback Mountain will reopen to the public on Sept. 30, 2022. The trail has been closed due to construction and a trailhead realignment that moves the trailhead from Cholla Lane to Invergordon Road. The new trailhead will now offer hikers amenities such as a drinking fountain, restrooms and bike racks.
Since the closure of Cholla Trail in 2020, Park Rangers, Park Stewards and a trail contractor have completed hundreds of hours of trail work to improve the upper reaches of the trail. This work included the removal of unstable boulders, significant improvements to the trail tread and the addition of trail posts and wayfinding efforts – important safety improvements for the trail.
“Knowing the public interest and popularity, I’m excited for the reopening of Cholla Trail as a safer trail experience for hikers and nearby residents,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said. “This project is a win-win for residents and hikers alike. Yet, it is important to remember that – even with these wonderful new amenities – it is still very important to hike safely by taking the necessary precautions to avoid heat illness and hiking injuries.”
“Our Cholla Trail is now ready to open. After an extensive public and development process we are now open as one of the best local trails in Arizona, if not in the United States. I want to personally thank local residents and hikers for their patience in the construction of Cholla Trail,” Phoenix City Councilman Sal DiCiccio said. “The new trail will reduce foot traffic on Cholla Lane, as well as provide new amenities to hikers with a drinking fountain and bathroom.”
Completing the Cholla Trail Realignment Project was a joint effort between the Parks and Recreation Department, Street Transportation Department, Phoenix Fire Department and the Town of Paradise Valley. All parties played a crucial role in making this project safe and accessible for first responders, hikers and surrounding residents.
What to Expect
Beginning Sept. 30, the trailhead will open at sunrise and close at sunset. Drinking water will be available but due to nearby residential construction, there will be no chilled water or restroom lights until power can be provided, which is expected to occur by late 2022.
Parking
Parking for Cholla Trail will continue to be along Invergordon Road which now includes dedicated spaces for ride-share services to pick-up and drop-off hikers.
Additionally, in preparation for the opening of Cholla Trail, the Phoenix Fire Department will be doing some staging as part of training exercises along Invergordon Road in the coming weeks.
Take a Hike, Do it Right
More than 200 hikers are rescued annually from City of Phoenix desert and mountain parks and preserves. This simple checklist can help keep you from becoming a statistic. Before you hike, follow the Take a Hike, Do it Right guidelines to ensure a safe hike. Learn more at Phoenix.gov/parks/trails/
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