Frequently Asked Questions
What to Expect
How difficult will the hike be?
The difficulty of the hike will be entirely up to you and your group! Within the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, we have so many trail options available to us - each offering different distances, elevations and terrains. On Camelback Mountain, there is absolutely no pressure to reach the top and there are beautiful vistas and viewpoints at every turn. Guests are encourage to hike and climb within their comfort level.
Even within a large group, we can break off into smaller teams and ensure that everyone gets something that’s challenging, enjoyable, and above all - safe!
What might I see/encounter?
In regards to plants, cacti, flora & fauna, the Sonoran desert has some of the most unique specimens in the world. Our guides will point out and offer explanation for almost everything we will see. No matter the time of year, we’ll help make the desert come alive!
When it comes to wildlife, we cannot make any guarantees. However is it common to see a handful of animal life, as well as nests and dens. Birds, coyotes, jackrabbits and javelina are just a few of the deserts common inhabitants. Not to worry - snake encounters are VERY rare. And everything we see is at a safe distance.
How long will the hike take?
For our hikes in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, experiences tend to last between 2-2.5h. Hikes on Camelback Mountain can be up to 3h. However this is only a rough estimate/guideline. We are sensitive to other scheduling commitments and prior planned activities and can customize the length of a hiking accordingly. We can accomplish anything from a short scenic tour, to a full summiting experience.
What to Bring
What should I wear?
It’s recommended to dress according to the weather, and your comfort. Temperatures can change quickly, so layers are encouraged. Moisture wicking fabrics, and anything that you don’t mind getting a little dirty! Hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are also highly encouraged.
What about shoes?
Close-toed shoes are HIGHLY recommended. There are a lot of ‘pokey’ things on trail. Try to avoid flip flops and sandals. Hiking shoes, with high ankle support are awesome, but we understand if heavy hiking boots don’t make the cut in your carry-on luggage. Sneakers and runners will be more than OK!
What should I bring?
Our guides will provide all the necessary equipment. We’ll have lots of water, snacks, a first aid kit and backpacks to carry any valuables or personal belongings. But whatever you’re used to bringing, or feel comfortable carrying with you, by all means! And while we do carry sealed bottled water for our guests, we love when hikers bring their own reusable/refillable water bottles!
What is Included
Who will be on my hike?
All of our hikes are private. Only you & your group will be present during the experience.
How will I get to the trailhead?
All hikes originating from the Arizona Biltmore (approx. 5 min driving time each way), or hikes going to the Phoenix Mountain Preserve from the OMNI Montelucia Scottsdale, or Mountain Shadows Resort (approx. 15 min driving time each way) will include transportation. A guide will accompany you and your group the whole way; from lobby pick up, to post hike drop off. If you are staying at the OMNI or Mountain Shadows and plan to hike Camelback Mountain we will be walking to/from the trailhead (approx. 20 min each way). In any case, service will be door to door!
How do I pay for my experience? Tax? Gratuity?
Payment is collected prior to, or directly after your experience. The price quoted is all inclusive; including taxes. Gratuities are always appreciated by our guides for a job well done, and are at the discretion of our guests. We accept all major credit cards (3.5% processing fee), PayPal, Venmo & in some cases for large groups, excursions can be added to Master Accounts established with respective Resorts.
Miscellaneous
What about going to the bathroom?
There are washroom & bathroom facilities available at the trailhead! Newly renovated in 2021, they will be accessible right before and right after our hike.
What about Covid?
All of our guides are double-vaccinated and boosted. We also have face/neck gators, and will be happy to wear them if that makes you feel more comfortable. We have no special vaccine requirements when it comes to our guests. If you are feeling ‘sick’, or experience flu-like symptoms, we ask that you do not attend the hike and we will be happy to reschedule.
