Eight hikers were treated by emergency crews Monday morning after a large swarm of bees attacked people near Camelback Mountain in Phoenix, according to the Phoenix Fire Department.
The incident led officials to launch a larger mountain rescue response as calls came in from multiple locations around the popular hiking area.
Incident
Phoenix fire crews received reports around 9:15 a.m. that several hikers had been stung near the base of the Cholla Trail.
As additional emergency calls came from different parts of the mountain, the Phoenix Fire Department upgraded the situation to what officials described as a “greater alarm mountain rescue.”
Emergency personnel responded to both the Cholla Trail and Echo Canyon Trail areas to locate and assist hikers affected by the bee swarm.
| Incident Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Camelback Mountain, Phoenix |
| Time Reported | Around 9:15 a.m. |
| Number of Hikers Treated | 8 |
| Hospital Transports | 1 |
| Trails Affected | Cholla and Echo Canyon |
| Response Type | Greater alarm mountain rescue |
Response
Fire crews worked alongside Phoenix Police and deployed the FireBird helicopter to assist with locating hikers and monitoring conditions on the mountain.
Officials said all eight hikers were eventually located, medically evaluated, and safely guided down from the trails.
One hiker was transported to a hospital for further evaluation, though authorities did not release details about that person’s condition.
No life-threatening injuries were immediately reported.
Closure
Following the attack, officials temporarily closed the affected trails while emergency crews assessed the area.
The Phoenix Fire Department stated that a bee specialist was being sent to Camelback Mountain to evaluate the swarm activity and determine when the area could safely reopen.
Authorities have not yet announced how long the closures may remain in place.
Camelback Mountain is one of the busiest hiking destinations in the Phoenix area, attracting large numbers of residents and tourists, especially during morning hours.
Bees
Bee swarm incidents occasionally occur in Arizona, particularly during warmer months when colonies become more active.
Africanized honey bees, sometimes referred to as “killer bees,” are present in parts of Arizona and can become aggressive when disturbed or when protecting their hives.
Experts generally advise hikers and outdoor visitors to leave the area immediately if bees begin swarming and to avoid swatting at them, which can intensify aggressive behavior.
Emergency officials also recommend seeking shelter in a vehicle or enclosed structure if attacked by a swarm.
Safety
Phoenix firefighters frequently respond to mountain rescues involving heat exhaustion, dehydration, falls, and wildlife encounters on popular desert trails.
Officials encourage hikers to carry water, stay aware of surroundings, and check for trail advisories before beginning hikes, especially during warmer weather conditions.
The temporary closure at Camelback Mountain remained in effect while specialists continued assessing the bee activity near the trails.
Further updates regarding reopening plans are expected once authorities determine the area is safe for visitors.
FAQs
Where did the bee attack happen?
Near Camelback Mountain in Phoenix.
How many hikers were treated?
Eight hikers received treatment from crews.
Was anyone hospitalized?
One hiker was taken for evaluation.
Which trails were affected?
Cholla and Echo Canyon trails were involved.
Are the trails currently open?
No, officials temporarily closed the trails.
