A new study has revealed that Camelback Mountain is among the top U.S. peaks to conquer.
The study conducted by family vacation experts Family Destinations Guide, analyzed Instagram hashtag data, TripAdvisor ratings and TripAdvisor reviews of 600 prominent mountain destinations across America. Each location was assigned a “peak score” to reveal the best mountain climbing destinations in the country.
Coming in at fifth place is the Valley’s very own Camelback Mountain with a peak score of 17.2 points out of 30. The mountain accumulated 2,548 reviews and a 4.5-star rating on TripAdvisor, including climbers expressing their experience as “excellent and rewarding”. There were 221,091 posts on Instagram with the hashtag #camelbackmountain, showcasing photos of people in activewear gear as well as the landscape of rocks and cacti.
Mount Rainier in Washington ranks first, scoring 22. The mountain has a 5-star rating on TripAdvisor and 439,039 Instagram posts containing the hashtag #mountrainier. The 14,410-foot-high peak has 1,796 reviews on TripAdvisor with most travelers describing the climbing experience as “a must-do”.
“‘The U.S. is spoiled for choice with beautiful scenery, and mountain climbing is a popular year-round activity which allows you to immerse yourself in the country’s natural beauty,” says a spokesperson from Family Destinations Guide. “With spring just around the corner, it is a great opportunity for families, couples or solo travelers to explore the natural sights and landscapes that come with mountain climbing.’
“This research provides a useful guide into the country’s most popular peaks to climb for potential tourists or lovers of mountain climbing.”
Top 10 Best Climbing Destinations in the United States, according to Family Destinations Guide:
- Mount Rainier
- Haleakala Crater
- Lookout Mountain
- Grand Teton
- Camelback Mountain
- Mount Washington
- Maroon Bells
- Cadillac Mountain
- Mauna Kea Summit
- Clingmans Dome