This was my first hike in the AZ winter Series.  I'm staying/basing out the North Phoenix area so I wanted to get both Piestewa and Camelback out of the way before I leave this weekend.  The Camelback trail is aptly labeled as Hard.  The bottom of the path well groomed and wide enough for 2-3 people side by side.  When make the turn to go up the back side of the mountain that little amenity pretty much goes out the window.  The gets pretty steep and in the speepest parts the have put in permanent railing to help you up the trail.  Going up and going down the rail is your friend.  I started at 0610 and it was already pretty crowded and when I was on my way down is was getting awfully cramped on the trail.  Great Views at the top and I'm pretty sure you will be feeling a sense of accomplishment for getting up this trail.