The new entranceway to Camelback Mountain's Echo Canyon Trail won't be finished in time for a planned November 30 opening, a Phoenix official said on Tuesday.
The city had previously announced a "firm" date for the re-opening of the trailhead, which has been closed since January 28 for the $5 million renovation project. David Urbinato, Phoenix parks and recreation spokesman, had told us at the time it was possible weather or some unforeseen factor could delay the hoped-for target date.
As it turns out, the problem is "due to delays in shipments of steel for the new restroom and ramada at the trailhead," according to an email sent to the news media by Urbinato.
See also: Camelback Mountain's Echo Canyon Trail and New Parking Lot to Re-Open on November 30, City Says
It'll take until the end of the year to finish up work on the project, he added. When the city's done, park users will have twice as many parking spots, improved restrooms, and a reformed start to the 1.2 summit trail.
"End-of-the-year" goal or not, the city's being more cautious now with its guesstimated E.T.A.: "To avoid further confusion regarding opening dates, we will announce a definitive opening date when the project is substantially complete."
Thousands of hikers jonesing to get back on one of the Valley's most-used trails will have to cool their heels a while longer. But as Urbinato points out, the city still has about 180 miles of recreational trails to explore.
See also: 5 Easy Hikes for Beginners in Metro Phoenix 8 Reasons Hiking in Phoenix Is Awesome
