Phoenix: ATV Training & Sonoran Desert Centipede Tour Combo

Summary

Atv training meets wild sonoran desert trails near phoenix

You’ll start with hands-on ATV training near Phoenix before heading into the wild Sonoran Desert on the Centipede Tour with a local guide. Expect real off-road adventure through canyons and mountain trails, plus small group vibes and plenty of laughs along the way. If you want both confidence and adrenaline in one day—this is it.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was a little nervous when we pulled up just north of Phoenix — I’d never driven an ATV before, and the Sonoran Desert looked way bigger in person than on Instagram. The morning air was dry and already warm, but not too bad (our guide said early tours are best for that). We got our helmets and goggles on, and my friend tried to joke about looking like astronauts, but honestly I was mostly focused on not messing up the first turn.

The Sidewinder training course is no joke — lots of bumps and those twisty little hills that make your stomach drop for a second. Our guide, Mark, had this calm way of explaining everything without making you feel dumb. He showed us how to lean into corners and what to do if you hit a patch of loose sand. I caught myself grinning after nailing a curve. There’s this smell out there — kind of dusty-sweet from the creosote bushes? Hard to describe unless you’ve been.

Once we finished training, it was straight onto the Centipede Tour. That’s where it got real: weaving through rocky canyons, climbing up parts where you can see forever across the Bradshaw Mountains. Mark pointed out some tiny lizards darting under rocks (I nearly missed them), and he told us stories about people surviving out here ages ago — apparently rattlesnakes don’t like mornings much, which felt reassuring at the time. The sun kept shifting colors over the mountains as we rode. My hands were buzzing from holding the handlebars so tight but in a good way.

I didn’t expect to feel so proud by the end — or to laugh so much when my friend stalled out trying to show off. It’s weird how quickly you go from nervous to kind of addicted to that desert silence between engine roars. I still think about that view at the top before we headed back down, all dust in my teeth and sun on my face… worth every awkward gear shift.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — ATV training and desert tour

• Attend safety operations briefing
• Practice riding on Sidewinder course
• Begin Centipede Tour in Sonoran Desert
• Explore deep canyons and mountains
• Enjoy views of Bradshaw Mountains
• Observe Sonoran Desert wildlife
• Learn from certified guide

Top questions

Is this ATV tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, it includes beginner-friendly ATV training on the Sidewinder course before heading into more adventurous terrain.

How long does the ATV tour last?

The experience includes up to 1 hour for check-in followed by up to 3 hours of training and riding combined.

Where does the tour take place?

The tour runs just north of Phoenix in Arizona’s Sonoran Desert, including parts of the Bradshaw Mountains.

What’s included in this combo tour?

Your day includes safety gear (helmet, goggles, face mask), bottled water, professional guide, ATV training session, and guided Centipede Tour.

Are there age or health restrictions?

You must be at least 16 years old with valid ID to drive; not recommended for those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Is pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests should arrive at the starting point north of Phoenix.

What should I wear for this ATV tour?

Avoid skirts or dresses; wear closed-toe shoes as open-toed shoes are not allowed.

Do I need prior experience driving an ATV?

No prior experience is needed—the Sidewinder training prepares beginners before heading out on trail.

What’s included

Your day includes all required safety gear like helmet, goggles, and face mask along with bottled water throughout. You’ll get professional guidance during both your initial Sidewinder ATV training session and while riding deeper into Arizona’s Sonoran Desert on the Centipede Tour—no need for previous experience as everything’s covered once you arrive onsite.