The Christmas spirit has run into some conflict at the summit of Camelback Mountain. The agitator is a tree that includes holiday decorations.
Supporters say it’s a unique way to celebrate the season, while others are concerned about its effect on the environment — with the idea that hikers shouldn’t be leaving anything along the trail.
In fact, the city of Phoenix has a policy that prohibits leaving items in parks.
Ray Stern of Phoenix New Times — who has been hiking Camelback for years — decided to chat with the man known as Camelback Santa and other hikers. The reaction to Stern’s questions was mostly negative. He’s with me to talk more about it.
