The Sonoran Desert around Phoenix serves up excellent ATV adventures for both beginners and experienced riders. First-timers should consider the Sonoran Desert Beginner Training & Tour Combo, which includes essential instruction before hitting the trails. I’m impressed by Desert Wolf Tours‘ accessible 3-hour TomCar experience – it’s well-organized and accommodates up to 40 people, including those with mobility challenges.
My favorite is the 4-hour Arizona Desert Tour, crossing the Agua Fria River with stunning desert vistas. The Box Canyon Half-Day Tour offers something special too, combining off-road thrills with fascinating Native American petroglyphs. Every tour provides proper safety equipment and thorough briefings.
Let’s explore the top ATV tours Phoenix has to offer.
Key Points
- Desert Wolf Tours offers a thrilling 3-hour guided TomCar ATV tour in the Sonoran Desert, accommodating up to 40 travelers with a 99% recommendation rate.
- The 3-hour Guided Arizona Desert Tour provides 2 hours of riding on rugged trails, crossing the Agua Fria River and showcasing stunning desert scenery.
- The Box Canyon and Pinal Mountains Half-Day ATV Tour covers 30 miles of dirt trails, featuring a scenic 6-mile trek through Box Canyon with ancient petroglyphs.
- Beginner ATV training options, such as the 1-hour guided training near Phoenix and the Sonoran Desert Beginner ATV Training & Desert Tour Combo, provide personalized instruction for safe operation.
- Tours emphasize comprehensive safety measures, including required safety gear, pre-tour briefings, and regular maintenance checks, with a minimum age of 15.5 years and a valid driver’s license required.
3 Hour Guided TomCar ATV Tour in Sonoran Desert
Embarking on a 3-hour guided TomCar ATV tour in the breathtaking Sonoran Desert, adventurous travelers can expect an exhilarating off-road experience led by knowledgeable and sociable guides.
Operated by Desert Wolf Tours in Phoenix, the tour offers memorable moments, thrilling driving, and educational insights about the desert’s flora and fauna.
With a maximum of 40 travelers, the experience caters to most participants, including those in wheelchairs or with service animals.
While reviews praise the guides and scenic views, some note the ride’s roughness and equipment condition.
The tour’s high satisfaction levels and 99% recommendation rate make it a popular choice for those seeking an adrenaline-fueled desert adventure.
Read our full review: 3 Hour Guided TomCar ATV Tour in Sonoran Desert Review
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From Phoenix: Sonoran Desert Guided ATV Training
Those seeking an introduction to off-road adventure can embark on a guided ATV training experience in the stunning Sonoran Desert near Phoenix.
The 1-hour activity provides personalized instruction from professional guides, covering safe ATV operation and off-road navigation. Participants will practice on a test course featuring turns, bumps, and hills, all while taking in the desert’s scenic beauty.
The experience, priced from $54.54 per person, includes ATV usage, safety gear, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
With a 4.7/5 overall rating, this is an excellent option for thrill-seekers aged 16 and up who want to learn the ropes of ATVing in a controlled and guided environment.
Read our full review: From Phoenix: Sonoran Desert Guided ATV Training Review
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Guided Arizona Desert Tour by ATV
Nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, the Guided Arizona Desert Tour by ATV, also known as the Centipede Tour, offers adventure-seekers a thrilling off-road experience.
This 3-hour tour provides 2 hours of riding on rugged trails in the Bradshaw Mountains, crossing the Agua Fria River. Participants can expect to see stunning desert scenery, including saguaro cacti and glimpses of local wildlife.
The tour includes all necessary safety gear and a knowledgeable guide who shares stories about the area’s history and natural features.
With a 94% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this ATV adventure is a must-do for those seeking an exhilarating outdoor activity in Phoenix.
Read our full review: Guided Arizona Desert Tour by ATV Review
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Sonoran Desert: Beginner ATV Training & Desert Tour Combo
Adventurers seeking an exhilarating ATV experience in the Sonoran Desert can embark on the Sonoran Desert: Beginner ATV Training & Desert Tour Combo.
This 3-hour (up to 4 hours on busy days) excursion includes personalized, hands-on training on the Sidewinder ATV Training Course and a guided Centipede Tour through canyons and over mountains.
Participants can enjoy panoramic views of the Bradshaw Mountains and learn about desert wildlife, history, and survival techniques.
The tour is suitable for those 16 years and older, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Participants must bring a passport or ID card and closed-toe shoes, as sandals, flip-flops, and open-toed shoes aren’t allowed.
Read our full review: Sonoran Desert: Beginner ATV Training & Desert Tour Combo Review
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Sidewinder ATV Training & Centipede Tour Combo – Guided ATV Training & Tour
Embarking on the Sidewinder ATV Training & Centipide Tour Combo, adventurers can expect a guided ATV experience that combines personalized instruction and an exhilarating desert exploration.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, this tour offers a more intimate setting, led by professional guides. After up to an hour of check-in, you will enjoy 3 hours of training and riding on ATVs, traversing the stunning Sonoran Desert landscape.
Safety is a top priority, with provided gear and a requirement for moderate fitness levels.
With 380 glowing reviews and a 100% traveler recommendation, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an adventurous yet safe ATV experience in Phoenix.
Read our full review: Sidewinder ATV Training & Centipede Tour Combo – Guided ATV Training & Tour Review
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Box Canyon and Pinal Mountains Half-Day ATV Tour
Thrill-seekers can explore the rugged terrain of the Pinal Mountains and navigate the narrow routes of Box Canyon on this half-day ATV tour.
The 4-hour experience covers 30 miles of dirt trails, including a 6-mile trek through the scenic Box Canyon. Along the way, participants can admire ancient Native American petroglyphs and a historic adobe building from the 1860s.
The tour is limited to 6 riders and includes safety equipment, an ATV tutorial, a live guide, and complimentary bottled water and snacks.
Costing $232.79 per person, the tour earns a 4.9/5 rating from 19 reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable experience.
Read our full review: Box Canyon and Pinal Mountains Half-Day ATV Tour Review
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Sidewinder ATV Training Session – Guided ATV Training
For those seeking a more guided and instructive ATV experience, the Sidewinder ATV Training Session in Black Canyon City offers an ideal opportunity.
Situated in the Sonoran Desert, this 1-hour ride on the “Sidewinder” trail provides comprehensive instruction and safety gear for beginners to experts.
The session includes up to 1-hour of check-in, training, and riding under the guidance of professional instructors.
Riders will learn proper techniques for turns, bumps, and hills.
With a 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this group adventure guarantees an unforgettable and thrilling experience for those with moderate physical fitness and a valid ID.
Read our full review: Sidewinder ATV Training Session – Guided ATV Training Review
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Guided Sonoran Desert ATV & UTV Tour
Visitors to the Sonoran Desert can explore the rugged terrain on a guided UTV or ATV tour. Priced from $204.40 per group of up to 2 participants, the 2-hour adventure departs from Phoenix and explores the Bradshaw Mountains.
Along the way, guests can spot local wildlife and learn about the area’s flora, fauna, history, and Native American culture from knowledgeable guides. The tour includes a UTV ride, safety gear, bottled water, and snacks.
While the minimum age for passengers is 4 years, drivers must be at least 16 with a valid ID. Rated 4.9/5 based on 240 reviews, the tour offers an exceptional and memorable experience.
Read our full review: Guided Sonoran Desert ATV & UTV Tour Review
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Self-Guided Centipede Desert ATV Rental
Adrenaline-fueled adventure awaits with the Self-Guided Centipede Desert ATV Rental.
Offering a 5-star experience, this unguided tour allows you to explore the stunning Sonoran Desert at your own pace.
After a brief vehicle training, you’re free to tackle the trails and take in the breathtaking views of Arizona’s Bradshaw Mountains.
The 3-hour experience includes safety gear and bottled water, with various daily time slots to choose from.
Just be mindful of the safety requirements – you’ll need a valid ID and strong physical fitness.
Though not wheelchair-accessible, this thrilling tour is praised for its flexibility and the helpfulness of the staff.
Secure your adventure today, with a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Self-Guided Centipede Desert ATV Rental Review
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3-Hour ATV and Shooting Combo
The 3-Hour ATV and Shooting Combo offers an exhilarating way to explore the Sonoran Desert and engage in some target practice.
This half-day tour provides all the necessary equipment, including ATVs, safety gear, and firearms. With a professional guide and shooting instructor, participants can navigate the rugged terrain and hone their shooting skills.
The tour accommodates up to 20 travelers and is available in English only. While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the experience caters to various ages and fitness levels.
Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the overall enjoyment of the ATV rides and shooting sessions, though some note the latter feeling somewhat limited.
Read our full review: 3-Hour ATV and Shooting Combo Review
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Box Canyon ATV Tour in Florence, Arizona
Situated in the heart of Arizona’s Sonoran Desert, the Box Canyon ATV Tour whisks adventurers on a thrilling 4-hour journey through the rugged terrain of Florence.
Traversing 34 miles of the Box Canyon, riders witness ancient petroglyphs, explore a historic post office and Butterfield Overland Stage Coach way station, and marvel at the towering canyon walls reaching up to 1,500 feet.
With a 5.0/5.0 rating and 96% recommendation, this tour offers an exceptional off-road experience for thrill-seekers.
Participants must be at least 15.5 years old with a valid license and meet moderate fitness requirements.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour provides essential safety gear and a knowledgeable, friendly guide to ensure a memorable desert adventure.
Read our full review: Box Canyon ATV Tour in Florence, Arizona Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Safety Precautions for the ATV Tours?
Riders must wear helmets, goggles, and protective clothing. They’ll receive safety instructions, follow designated trails, and ride within their abilities. Guides monitor conditions and assist when needed to ensure a safe, enjoyable ATV tour experience.
Do I Need Any Prior Experience to Participate in the Tours?
No prior experience is typically required for ATV tours, though some operators may have age or size restrictions. Participants should follow all safety instructions and wear provided protective gear. It’s best to check with the tour company about any experience prerequisites.
What Are the Age and Height Requirements for the ATV Tours?
The age and height requirements for ATV tours typically vary, but many operators require participants to be at least 16 years old and meet minimum height restrictions, often around 5 feet tall, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Can I Bring My Own ATV or Do I Need to Rent One?
Most ATV tour operators require riders to rent their vehicles. Bringing your own ATV is generally not allowed, as the tour company needs to ensure the safety and suitability of the equipment used. Renters must follow the operator’s guidelines on age, height, and other requirements.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Type of Clothing I Can Wear?
Most ATV tour operators don’t have strict clothing requirements, but they recommend wearing sturdy, closed-toe shoes and weather-appropriate layers to ensure comfort and safety during the activity. Specific dress codes may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour provider beforehand.
Recap
The Sonoran Desert near Phoenix offers a variety of ATV and quad bike tours catering to different skill levels and interests. From beginner-friendly training and guided tours to more advanced self-guided rentals, there’s an option to suit every adventurer. Whether you seek a thrilling off-road experience or a chance to explore the stunning desert landscape, these tours provide an unforgettable way to discover the rugged beauty of the region.