Imagine climbing into a rugged Hummer, ready for an adventure that takes you off the beaten path into the wild beauty of Prescott’s National Forest. For around $120 per person, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring pine forests, crossing rivers, and soaking in breathtaking views. This tour, offered by Angry Ape Off-Road, is a private experience—meaning only your group will be along for the ride—and includes pickup from Prescott’s downtown area.
What draws us to this tour is its blend of adventure and scenic beauty. The off-road driving is designed to get your adrenaline pumping—think steep climbs, descents, and water crossings—yet it’s balanced with plenty of opportunities to pause for photos at Goldwater Lake. We also appreciate how guides like Tom and John seem to make the experience both informative and fun, enhancing the trip with local insights and humor.
A possible consideration is that this tour is about 90 minutes long, which might leave some travelers wishing for a slightly longer adventure or more time to soak in the views. Also, it’s best suited for those comfortable with off-road driving, as the route involves some adventurous ascents and descents.
This tour suits travelers who want a taste of Prescott’s natural terrain in a comfortable, controlled setting. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, it’s perfect for those seeking a fun, scenic, and memorable experience without the hassle of planning their own off-road trip.
Key Points
- Scenic route in Prescott National Forest offers stunning views and photo opportunities.
- Private tour ensures a personalized experience with just your group.
- Adventurous driving with steep ascents, descents, and water crossings for thrill-seekers.
- Expert guides like Tom and John make the trip informative and entertaining.
- Approximate duration of 1.5 hours provides a good taste of the forest without being overly long.
- Includes pickup and mobile tickets for easy planning.
A Closer Look at the Prescott Off-Road Adventure
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Starting Point and Logistics
The tour begins at 212 N Montezuma Street in Prescott—an easy spot for most travelers staying downtown. Since the tour is private, you won’t be sharing the experience with strangers, which adds to the comfort and flexibility. You’ll be picked up directly from this location, making logistics smooth, especially if you’re staying nearby.
What’s Included
For $120 per person, your ticket covers the full 90-minute adventure, guided by knowledgeable and friendly drivers. The tour is quite popular, with most bookings made about two weeks in advance, so planning ahead is wise. The private nature means your experience is tailored, and you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions about the local landscape and history if you’re curious.
The Itinerary: A Mix of Thrills and Views
The route takes you from Ponderosa through some of the most picturesque parts of the forest, ending at Goldwater Lake. This particular trail is praised as one of the favorites by the guides because it balances excitement and scenery well. You’ll encounter steep ascents and descents that will get your heart pounding, along with water crossings that add an extra splash of fun.
Bryan G. describes it as a “great experience,” praising Tom’s guiding skills and the scenic route. The trail is mostly surrounded by tall pines, with occasional water crossings that keep the drive lively. The highlight for many is the 15-minute stop at Goldwater Lake, where you can take photos of the reflective waters and surrounding mountains.
What You’ll Experience
The off-road driving involves some adventurous ascents and descents—think of it as a roller coaster through the forest, but in a sturdy Hummer. The guides emphasize safety, but don’t expect a leisurely ride—this is about getting a little dirt on your tires and enjoying the thrill of action-packed driving. The reviews highlight that guides like John and Tom are not only knowledgeable but also entertaining, adding humor and local insights that make the trip engaging.
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Photo Stops and Rest Breaks
The spotlight is on photo opportunities—the lake view is a favorite, with reviewers like Patricia D. calling it “absolutely amazing.” The 15-minute stop allows everyone to stretch, snap some pictures, and soak in the scenery. Some reviews mention the added bonus of snacks, drinks, and even s’mores at the lake, though these details are not officially listed in the itinerary.
Who’s This Tour Best For?
This adventure is ideal for adventure lovers who enjoy active travel and scenic landscapes. It’s also perfect for those who want to see Prescott’s wilderness from a unique perspective without needing their own off-road vehicle or extensive planning. Because it’s a private tour, it’s a good choice for small groups, couples, or families with kids who are comfortable in a vehicle with some off-road action.
Considerations
While the adventure level is generally suitable for most travelers, some may find the steep ascents and descents a bit daunting. Also, the absence of child car seats means families with young children need to plan accordingly. The tour operates in good weather, with a full refund if canceled due to poor conditions, so keeping an eye on the forecast is wise.
Why We Love This Experience
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of thrilling off-road driving with spectacular views—something that’s hard to find in a typical sightseeing trip. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly demeanor turn what could be just a bumpy ride into a personalized adventure you’ll remember. Plus, the chance to capture photos at Goldwater Lake ensures you’ll have visual mementos of your journey.
Another plus is the small group/private setting—it feels more like a friends-and-family outing than a commercial tour, allowing for flexible conversation and a more relaxed pace.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Sign Up?
If you’re visiting Prescott and want to add some adventure and excitement to your trip, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable if you’re interested in scenic landscapes, off-road driving, or photography. The experience offers genuine value through its personalized approach, expert guides, and stunning scenery.
Travelers who appreciate authentic outdoor experiences—without extensive time or effort—will find this tour a worthwhile addition to their Prescott itinerary. It’s a great way to see the forest from a different perspective and enjoy some good old-fashioned fun.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, there are no child car seats provided, so families with young children should plan accordingly and consider whether their children are comfortable with off-road vehicles.
How long is the tour?
The adventure lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable experience, especially if you’re looking for a shorter outdoor activity.
What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided off-road adventure, the use of a Hummer, and pickup from Prescott. It’s a straightforward price for a personalized, private tour.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made within 24 hours are not refunded.
Are there any safety concerns?
Guides prioritize safety, but expect some adventurous driving with steep climbs, descents, and water crossings. Travelers should be comfortable with off-road conditions.
Is there an opportunity for photos?
Absolutely. The stop at Goldwater Lake is a prime photo spot, and many reviews mention taking memorable pictures during the tour.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for outdoor activity, including sturdy shoes and layers, as weather can change in the forest.
Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from Prescott’s downtown area, making it convenient to join without additional transportation arrangements.
How many people can join this tour?
It’s a private experience for your group only, so group size varies based on your booking, but it’s designed to be intimate and personalized.
In all, this Private Off-Road Adventure in Prescott National Forest offers a memorable blend of thrill, scenery, and expert guidance. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking a fun, authentic outdoor experience that’s easy to book and tailored to your group. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to explore Prescott’s wild side, this tour delivers on adventure and stunning views.