Each time we pass through Arizona, we always stop for a visit to Mitch’s mom.  We were here for two weeks and enjoyed the various attractions in the area. A visit to Old Scottsdale was one of the many stops.  The town was packed with people as it was several days before Easter.  The city has various shops, restaurants, and wine-tasting rooms.  Statues of cowboys and old west feel can be seen as one walks around.  When visiting, a trip to the Sugar Bowl is a must.  Be prepared to wait; it is one of the most popular spots in town, especially on a hot Phoenix Day.  The ice cream is delicious, but they serve food as well.

Of course, we can’t miss any hiking opportunities that may arise, and this time, Mitch chose a hike on Camelback Mountain.  You know it’s problematic when the Rangers ask if you’ve ever hiked this before, if you have enough water, and if you realize this is the most challenging hike in the area.  I have so many expletives for this hike, but I will leave what they were up to your imagination.  Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Tail has an elevation gain of 1,264 ft, and the trail length is 1.4 miles and is rated extremely difficult.  In many spots, you feel like you are a rock climber.  It’s tough when you are only 5 feet, and your leg stride isn’t wide enough to get to the next boulder.  We started this hike at 1 pm. (Probably not the best time to start). 

Honestly, this was the most challenging hike I had ever done, and I had every intention of making it to the top.  But this time, the mountain won, and I was done right before the last quarter of the hike, which was the steepest.  On the next visit to Mitch’s mom, I challenge myself to persevere and enjoy my victory to the top.  The mountain will not win again.

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