The 8 Best ATV & Quad Bike Tours in Phoenix
Phoenix isn’t just about cactus and desert sunsets; it’s a prime place to get your adrenaline pumping with ATV and quad bike adventures. The sprawling Sonoran Desert offers rugged trails, deep canyons, and mountain vistas that are best explored on four wheels. Thanks to the area’s dry climate and varied terrain, off-road riding here isn’t just fun—it’s a chance to see wildlife, Native American petroglyphs, and stunning desert scenery up close. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rider, these tours deliver different ways to experience the landscape, from guided trips to self-drive rentals.
If you want a mix of professional instruction and off-road exploration, Phoenix has some excellent options. For those seeking a guided experience that combines training and adventure, the Sidewinder ATV Training & Centipede Tour Combo is a top pick. Prefer to control your own vehicle? The Phoenix Self-Drive ATV/UTV Rental puts you in the driver’s seat for a personalized ride. Ready to explore? Read on as we compare the best options to help you decide which tour suits your style and budget.
1. Sidewinder ATV Training & Centipede Tour Combo – Guided ATV Training & Tour
Rated a perfect 5.0/5 from over 400 reviews, this combo offers a full 3-hour experience blending professional training and an exhilarating desert tour. It’s perfect for beginners and those new to ATV riding, thanks to a friendly Sidewinder test track where you can practice turns, bumps, and hills. Once confident, you’ll move on to the more challenging Centipede trail, which winds through Arizona’s Sonoran Desert with deep canyons and mountain views. Guided by experienced staff, safety is a priority with helmets, goggles, and masks provided.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on training and safety for first-timers, combined with a scenic ride through the Bradshaw Mountains. Many reviewers mention how helpful the instructors are—one called the guide “awesome, entertaining, patient, and knowledgeable.” The tour covers about 30 miles of off-road trails, offering a mix of challenging terrain and breathtaking vistas. For $179.65, you’re getting a balanced experience that’s great for families, beginners, or anyone wanting to learn before tackling more rugged trails.
Bottom Line: If you’re new to ATV riding but want a full desert adventure, this tour combines safety, instruction, and scenic riding — all led by helpful guides.
2. Sonoran Desert: Guided UTV or ATV Desert Tour
Coming in with a 4.9/5 rating from more than 260 reviews, this 2-hour guided UTV or ATV tour offers a quick, action-packed escape from Phoenix. Depart directly from the city and explore the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert, with its dusty trails and mountain backdrops. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who shares insights on local flora and fauna, including deer, coyotes, and even bobcats or snakes, adding an educational twist to the ride.
What makes this trip appealing is its focus on the natural environment and the ease of control—it’s suitable for beginners and families alike. The tour is priced at $204 per group up to two, making it a good option for couples or small groups. Reviewers rave about guides like Sam and Jesse, praising their professionalism and humor. The experience is fast-paced but manageable, with opportunities to soak in the stunning desert vistas.
Bottom Line: This guided tour offers a well-rounded, scenic off-road experience in the Sonoran Desert, perfect for those wanting a short but memorable adventure.
3. Phoenix: Self-Drive ATV/UTV Rental in the Sonoran Desert
Rated 4.8/5 from 41 reviews, this self-guided rental provides freedom for you to explore the Sonoran Desert at your own pace. For $102, you get a top-of-the-line ATV or UTV along with a trail map, safety gear, and a quick training session with a professional instructor. This setup is ideal if you prefer to plan your route and spend as much time as you like exploring the Bradshaw Mountains.
Guests highlight how easy it is to learn the vehicle with guidance, and many praise the quality of the equipment. One reviewer shared, “Jesse was AMAZING…it was definitely a good time and thrilling experience.” The freedom to choose your own trail means you can focus on the scenery, wildlife, or challenge yourself with more difficult terrain if you’re experienced. This option suits those who are confident in their driving skills or want a more personalized adventure.
Bottom Line: If you’re comfortable driving and want control over your own itinerary, this self-drive rental provides a flexible and high-quality option in the desert.
4. Box Canyon and Pinal Mountains Half-Day ATV Tour
This 4-hour tour, rated at 5/5 with a small group of 21 reviews, takes you through the northeast corner of Florence, Arizona, with a focus on scenic diversity and Native American history. You’ll ride through 30 miles of dirt trails, including narrow canyon routes of the Box Canyon, and bump over the rugged terrain of the Pinal Mountains. Along the way, you’ll see ancient petroglyphs and an old stagecoach way station, adding a touch of history to your ride.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of scenic beauty, cultural history, and challenging terrain. Guides like Bill and Ray are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. The ride challenges you with steep climbs and narrow canyon paths, making it suitable for more experienced riders seeking variety. The price of $233 includes a comprehensive 4-hour adventure, offering good value for those wanting a deeper exploration of Arizona’s backcountry.
Bottom Line: For travelers craving a mountain and canyon adventure coupled with Native American history, this half-day tour hits the mark.
5. From Phoenix: Sonoran Desert Guided ATV Training
At just $55 for a 1-hour session, this personalized ATV training is perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to refine their skills. Led by professional instructors like Christian, you’ll learn how to operate an ATV safely on a dedicated test course. The session includes up to an hour of actual riding, with safety gear and personalized guidance.
This experience is unique because it focuses solely on training and skill-building, ideal for those who want to gain confidence before embarking on more challenging rides. Many reviewers mention how instructive and fun the experience is, praising the instructors’ approachability and expertise. It’s an excellent way to get comfortable on an ATV without the pressure of a full tour.
Bottom Line: Best suited for beginners or those needing a quick refresher, this training session offers personalized instruction in a scenic desert setting.
6. Sonoran Desert: Beginner ATV Training & Desert Tour Combo
Rated 4.8/5 from six reviews, this combo experience lasts about 3 hours and is ideal for absolute beginners. It begins with a hands-on training session on a dedicated course, then takes you through canyons and over mountains with panoramic views of the Bradshaw Mountains. The focus here is on learning the basics so you can confidently handle an ATV in the desert.
What’s notable is the personalized instruction combined with a scenic ride, making it perfect for those new to off-road riding. The price of $170 makes it a good value, especially considering the comprehensive nature of the experience. One reviewer called it “very adventurous,” noting the beginner-friendly approach and stunning scenery.
Bottom Line: If you want a friendly introduction to ATV riding paired with a scenic desert tour, this experience offers excellent value.
7. 3 Hour Guided TomCar ATV Experience in Sonoran Desert
Rated at an outstanding 5.0/5 from nearly 1,850 reviews, this TomCar guided tour is a highlight for its military-grade vehicles and immersive desert experience. Lasting about 3 hours, you’ll traverse rugged terrain in a four-seater open-air vehicle, stopping at scenic points to learn about the desert’s plants and animals.
The Tomcar offers a challenging yet accessible ride, with large wheels and robust design making it suitable for families or adventurous individuals. Reviewers emphasize the knowledgeable guides and the exciting, real driving experience. The price is $218.62, but many find it worthwhile for the combination of comfort and rugged exploration.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or travelers seeking a more challenging, guided off-road experience in Arizona’s iconic desert.
8. Guided Arizona Desert Tour by ATV – Centipede Tour
With a 5/5 rating from over 1,290 reviews, this 2-hour guided ATV tour is highly popular. You’ll ride in the Bradshaw Mountains and cross the Aqua Fria River, enjoying a scenic route with plenty of off-road riding. The tour includes safety gear, helmets, and bottled water, with multiple departures throughout the day.
Guests highlight the experienced guides and the balance of riding time and scenery. Many reviewers mention how they appreciated the helpful instruction and how the tour was suitable for all levels. At $107.74 per person, it offers great value for a fast-paced, engaging desert ride.
Bottom Line: If you want an intense, guided ATV experience with plenty of off-road riding and excellent reviews, this tour deserves a spot on your list.
How to Choose the Best ATV & Quad Bike Tour in Phoenix
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, time availability, and experience level. If you’re new to off-road riding, a guided training session like the Sonoran Desert Guided ATV Training or Sonoran Desert: Beginner ATV Training & Desert Tour Combo might be best. For those wanting total control, the Self-Drive ATV/UTV Rental provides flexibility to explore independently.
If your goal is an immersive guided experience with scenic highlights, the TomCar ATV or the Guided Arizona Desert Tour by ATV – Centipede are excellent choices. Budget travelers might lean toward shorter or group-focused tours like the Sonoran Desert UTV or ATV Guided Tour.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak months, to secure your preferred time slot. Consider the ride difficulty, group size, and whether you prefer a guided or self-guided experience when making your decision.
Final Thoughts
From training-focused tours to self-driven rentals, Phoenix offers a wide range of ATV adventures. For first-timers, the Sidewinder ATV Training & Centipede Tour Combo provides a safe and scenic introduction. More experienced riders or those seeking flexibility might prefer the Self-Drive ATV/UTV Rental for a personalized exploration.
Families and groups that want a reliable guided experience should consider the TomCar ATV or the popular Centipede Tour. Whatever your choice, booking early and choosing an experience suited to your skill level will help ensure a memorable desert ride in Phoenix.