Camelback Echo Canyon Trailhead to Open November 30, 2013

The Echo Canyon trailhead on Camelback Mountain is set to reopen November 30, the Saturday after Thanksgiving, officials say.

The popular trail closed in January for major renovations, to the consternation of many Valley hikers.

“The project manager for Echo Canyon seems very confident that November 30 is very realistic, doable date,” parks spokesman David Urbinato said.

Returning hikers should see new restrooms, a new ramada and more parking, from 68 to 132 spaces, he said.

There also will be an added traffic roundabout at the new, separate entrance to the park, making it safer for crossing pedestrians while appeasing residents in the adjacent neighborhood.

The first 1/4-mile of the trail is being rebuilt and rerouted to eliminate erosion-prone areas, becoming a less steep, 1/2-mile portion.

The parks department does not plan to create much fanfare for the opening date — but they expect crowds.

“It’s probably just going to open,” Urbinato said. “On that Saturday, it’ll be a mob scene.”

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