Nestled in the midst of Paradise Valley, Arizona, Camelback Mountain is one of the most famous landmarks in the entire Phoenix metropolitan area. This majestic mountain sprawls across some of the most expensive Paradise Valley real estate, providing a dramatic backdrop for luxurious homes, stunning estates and sumptuous resorts.
Here are a few “fast facts” about this beloved hallmark of the Valley of the Sun.
History: During the late 1800s, the federal government reserved Camelback Mountain for an Indian reservation, but by the 1940s, most of the mountain had fallen into private hands and remained so for the next two decades. Efforts on the county, state and federal level to restrict development above the 1,600-feet level largely were unsuccessful, including failed efforts in 1963-64 in the state Legislature to arrange land exchanges.
Barry Goldwater to the rescue: In 1965, the Preservation of Camelback Mountain Foundation, led by local resident and United States Senator Barry Goldwater, was created to spearhead community efforts to save as much of the summit as possible. Ultimately successful, this effort was capped off by a ceremony in 1968 marking a land exchange that then-President Lyndon Johnson and then-Secretary of the Interior Stewart Udall attended.
Geology: The “head” of Camelback Mountain, which comprises the area of Echo Canyon Recreation Area, is made up of layered sandstone. The “hump” is primarily composed of granite that, in geologic terms, is much older than the sedimentary rock that makes up the head section of the mountain.
Flora and Fauna: Because of urban encroachment, large mammals are not normally found on the mountain, however a number of smaller animals typical of the Sonoran Desert populate the park including cottontail rabbits, lizards, Harris antelope squirrels and a variety of birds. In addition, rattlesnakes are common on the trail; the best advice is that if you see one, allow it space and time to escape. Cactus species on the mountain include saguaro, barrel, hedgehog, pincushion, jumping cholla, christmas, staghorn, cholla and prickly pear. Tree species include palo verde, mesquite and ironwood.
Highest Point: The summit of Camelback Mountain is at 2,704 feet above sea level. Elevation gain from the two summit trails is approximately 1,200 feet.
Brian Dunshie - 480.522.6818 Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty Scottsdale Waterfront Office
http://BiltmoreLiving.com http://ArizonaParadiseLiving.com http://ScottsdaleUrban.com http://UrbanPHX.com
Brian's Trade Mark Slogan " Specializing In YOU...and Your Next Castle!!! "
Comments(0)