Phoenix is a natural choice for ATV and quad bike tours—its sprawling Sonoran Desert, rugged mountains, and scenic canyons create a perfect backdrop for off-road exploration. Whether you’re a first-timer wanting a gentle introduction, or an experienced rider craving a challenging trail in the Bradshaw Mountains, Phoenix offers something for all. We’ve especially liked the Sidewinder ATV Training & Centipede Tour Combo because it combines beginner-friendly instruction with a breathtaking desert tour, ensuring a safe yet exhilarating experience. Plus, the professional guides and emphasis on safety make you feel confident from the start. If you’re into a full mixed experience, the 3-Hour ATV and Shooting Combo is a unique way to combine off-road riding with shooting practice at a private range, appealing to those who want a taste of adventure and skill-building.
In this guide, you’ll find a variety of options ranging from guided tours to self-drive rentals, each with its own distinct appeal. Whether you prefer a quick introductory session, a multi-hour trek through ancient petroglyph sites, or the freedom to explore on your own, Phoenix’s ATV scene has you covered.
1. Sidewinder ATV Training & Centipede Tour Combo – Guided ATV Training & Tour
At number 1, this 3-hour guided adventure combines professional instruction with a scenic ride through the Sonoran Desert. It’s designed with beginners in mind, offering a test track to practice turns, hills, and bumps until you’re comfortable. After mastering the basics, you’ll head out on the Centipede tour, which explores deeper into Arizona’s stunning canyons and mountain scenery. The guides here are praised for their helpfulness and patience, making this tour suitable even if you’re new to ATVs. Helmets, goggles, and masks are provided, along with bottled water, emphasizing safety and comfort. What sets this tour apart is the thorough training session combined with a captivating desert landscape that features deep canyons and rugged mountains.
Guests consistently rate this experience 5 stars, celebrating the knowledgeable guides and the chance to learn while having fun. One reviewer mentioned, “The staff was great, and the views were amazing,” underscoring the balance of instruction and adventure. It’s particularly good for newcomers who want to build confidence before tackling more challenging trails.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beginners and those wanting a guided experience with expert instruction, this tour offers excellent value at $179.65 for three hours of fun.
2. 3-Hour ATV and Shooting Combo
Securing second place is the 3-Hour ATV and Shooting Combo, which mixes the thrill of desert riding with the precision challenge of firearms training. For $229.84, you get up to 4 hours of action—starting with guided off-road riding and then moving to a private shooting range where an NRA-certified instructor helps you fire Glock 9mm and AR-15 rifles. This is genuinely a one-of-a-kind experience, blending adrenaline with skill development. The guides here are known for their knowledge and humor, making the experience both fun and educational. The tour’s flexibility, with multiple departures, makes it easy to fit into most schedules.
Reviewers rave about the beautiful desert scenery and the diversity of activities. One said, “This was the best tour I’ve ever taken,” highlighting the seamless combination of riding and shooting. The inclusion of gear, ammunition, and bottled water makes it straightforward to just show up and jump in.
Bottom Line: For those who want a full-throttle adventure that combines off-road riding with shooting, this combo offers excellent value and a memorable day out.
3. Sonoran Desert: Guided UTV or ATV Desert Tour
Coming in at number 3, this 2-hour guided UTV or ATV tour is ideal for those seeking a shorter, immersive experience in the Sonoran Desert. It’s perfect if you want to escape the city for a quick taste of Arizona’s rugged landscape. Your guide will lead you along off-road trails, revealing incredible views of the Bradshaw Mountains, and pointing out local wildlife such as deer, rabbits, and coyotes. The small-group format helps ensure you get personalized attention, and driving your own UTV gives you a sense of adventure that’s both manageable and exciting.
Guests mention the thrill of conquering dusty trails and the spectacular scenery, making it a solid choice for travelers short on time but eager to explore. It’s suited for first-timers and seasoned riders alike looking for a quick desert fix.
Bottom Line: Short, scenic, and guided, this tour offers a quick but rich off-road experience at a reasonable price of $204 per group.
4. Sidewinder ATV Training Session – Guided ATV Training
Number 4 is the Sidewinder ATV Training Session, a 1-hour beginner-focused course. This is perfect if you’re new to ATVs and want to learn the basics in a safe environment. The session covers safety operations and includes riding on the challenging “Sidewinder” test course, filled with turns, bumps, and hills. Guides tailor their instructions to your pace, helping build confidence before heading onto more rugged trails.
Guests love the personalized attention and mention that German, the guide, made their first ride memorable. It’s an affordable way to try out ATV riding without committing to a longer tour and is especially suited for families or first-timers.
Bottom Line: Great for absolute beginners, this quick session teaches essential skills and builds confidence at just $57.49 per person.
5. Box Canyon ATV Tour in Florence, Arizona
The Box Canyon ATV Tour ranks fifth, offering a 4-hour journey covering 34 miles through Arizona’s scenic landscapes. It’s a deep dive into history and nature, featuring petroglyphs from Native Americans, an old post office, and remnants of the Butterfield Overland Stage Coach Company. Riding past the Tortilla Mountains and through rugged box canyons, the trip is packed with visual interest and historical intrigue.
Many reviews highlight the informative guides and the variety of sights, including old miner’s buildings and petroglyphs. This tour appeals most to history buffs and those wanting a longer, more immersive experience, with enough time to take photos and soak in the scenery.
Bottom Line: At $234.98, it’s a longer, more comprehensive experience for travelers eager to combine off-road adventure with Arizona history.
6. Phoenix: Self-Drive ATV/UTV Rental in the Sonoran Desert
Number 6 offers self-guided exploration, giving you the freedom to navigate the Sonoran Desert at your own pace. For $102, you can rent a top-of-the-line ATV or UTV for up to 2 hours, with safety gear and instructor guidance included. It’s perfect for confident riders who want flexibility and autonomy, perhaps spending more time in spots that catch their eye or tackling trails that aren’t covered in guided tours.
Guests appreciate the professional instruction and the chance to enjoy sweeping views of the Bradshaw Mountains without the pressures of a group. It’s ideal for those comfortable handling their own vehicle or with some prior experience.
Bottom Line: If independence and customization matter most, this rental option offers a flexible way to enjoy the desert landscape.
7. Box Canyon and Pinal Mountains Half-Day ATV Tour
Number 7 features a 4-hour adventure that takes you through the Pinal Mountains and Box Canyon. Covering approximately 30 miles, you’ll navigate rugged off-road terrain, including narrow canyon routes and mountain trails. The tour features historic Native American petroglyphs and an old stagecoach station, blending natural beauty with a touch of history.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the challenging yet rewarding trails, making this suitable for intermediate riders looking to push their skills further. It’s a longer half-day trip that combines adventure with cultural discovery.
Bottom Line: For around $233, this tour is perfect for those wanting a more physically engaging experience with historical highlights.
8. From Phoenix: Sonoran Desert Guided ATV Training
Number 8 offers a personalized 1-hour training session in the Sonoran Desert. This experience is geared toward beginners seeking professional instruction and confidence-building. Riders learn safety procedures and practice on a test course before heading out. It’s a good way to get comfortable with ATV controls in a scenic setting.
Guests mention the expert guidance and the scenic mountain views surrounding the desert, making it a solid choice for first-timers who want to learn the basics before exploring more challenging trails.
Bottom Line: Costing just $55, this is an excellent starting point for beginners wanting instruction and scenic riding.
9. Sonoran Desert: Beginner ATV Training & Desert Tour Combo
Number 9 combines training and desert exploration in a 3-hour package. It’s designed for beginners and those wanting a guided learning experience, with personal instruction and a scenic drive through canyons and mountains. The tour emphasizes learning driving techniques while enjoying panoramic views of the Bradshaw Mountains.
Guests appreciate the hands-on training and the opportunity to see desert wildlife. It’s suited for travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to ATV riding plus an immersive adventure.
Bottom Line: For $170, this combo offers excellent value for hands-on learning and stunning scenery, ideal for first-time riders.
10. 3 Hour Guided TomCar ATV Experience in Sonoran Desert
Ranking tenth is this TomCar guided tour, which uses military-grade UTVs. Over about 3 hours, you’ll travel through rugged desert terrain, with stops for scenery and insights from your knowledgeable guide. The vehicles’ large wheels and open design make for exhilarating riding and great photo opportunities.
Guests often mention the spectacular views and expert guide, with many appreciating the chance to learn about desert plants and animals during the ride. It’s suited for travelers seeking a more rugged, immersive experience in a family-friendly vehicle.
Bottom Line: At $218.62, this tour offers a uniquely rugged and educational ride perfect for those wanting a durable vehicle with scenic storytelling.
$218.62 per person
11. Guided Arizona Desert Tour by ATV – Centipede Tour
Finally, the Centipede Tour is a 2-hour guided ride in the Bradshaw Mountains. It’s ideal for those wanting a quick yet intense off-road experience in the scenic desert. The tour includes safety gear and plenty of riding time, with guides sharing stories of the region’s flora, fauna, and history.
With over 1,290 reviews rating it 5.0/5, it’s a top-rated option for all skill levels. Reviewers mention the guide Jesse’s helpfulness and the fun pace of the ride, making it a popular choice for solo travelers and groups alike.
Bottom Line: Affordable and exciting, this tour is perfect for those short on time but eager for a memorable desert ride.
$107.74 per person
How to Choose the Best ATV & Quad Bike Tour in Phoenix
When selecting an ATV or quad bike tour, consider your budget, experience level, and interests. If you’re new to riding, the Sidewinder ATV Training & Centipede Tour Combo or the Sidewinder ATV Training Session are excellent for building confidence. For history lovers, the Box Canyon ATV Tour offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural sites. Adventure seekers might prefer the 3-Hour ATV and Shooting Combo or the TomCar Experience for a rugged ride with extra activity.
For those who want flexibility, the self-drive rental lets you explore on your own, while guided tours tend to be more informative and relaxing. Booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons, and consider the duration—a quick 1-hour session versus a full day of exploring.
Final Thoughts
Phoenix’s collection of ATV adventures offers something for all—from beginner training to challenging mountain rides. If you’re looking for a guided experience with safety in mind, the Sidewinder ATV Training & Centipede Tour is hard to beat, especially for first-timers. For more thrill and variety, the 3-Hour ATV and Shooting Combo provides a full day of adrenaline. Meanwhile, history and scenic enthusiasts will appreciate longer tours like the Box Canyon ATV Tour.
No matter which option you pick, these tours promise a memorable way to see Arizona’s iconic desert landscapes. Be sure to book early, prepare properly, and most importantly, have fun exploring this rugged, beautiful terrain on an ATV.