ATV Riding in Scottsdale: 2-Person UTV Desert Adventure

Drive through Sonoran Desert terrain and swap seats halfway through

A 2-hour guided UTV adventure in Tonto National Forest near Scottsdale where you operate your own 2-person buggy across rock gardens, sandy washes and desert canyons while your guide leads the route. Both driver and passenger can switch roles at the midway break. The operator provides the UTV, helmet, water, snacks and fuel.

Step-by-step itinerary

Stops and time spent at each4 stops

1. Tonto National ForestEntry included2h
2. Saguaro Lakepassing by
3. Salt Riverpassing by
4. Sonoran Desertpassing by

Guided off-road desert adventure

• Climb into 2026 UTV Trail Sport
• Follow expert guide on desert trails
• Conquer rock gardens and sandy washes
• View Four Peaks Mountain Range
• See Saguaro Lake
• Stop for water and snacks
• Swap driver and passenger roles
• Learn about Sonoran Desert flora and fauna
• Possibly cross river in rainy season

The experience

Tonto National Forest sits minutes from Scottsdale, close enough that you skip the long drive but far enough into the Sonoran Desert that the terrain feels genuinely remote. You'll climb into a 2026 UTV Trail Sport buggy, a two-seater you control yourself, and follow your guide across rugged ground. The route takes you through rock gardens where you pick your line, sandy washes that shift under the tires, and twisty canyons with views of Saguaro Lake and the Four Peaks Mountain Range opening up as you climb.

The guide leads from their own vehicle and calls out the line through each section, sharing details about the Sonoran Desert's plants and animals as you go: saguaro cactus, wild horses, eagles, and the creatures you might spot if conditions are right. Halfway through, you stop for water and snacks (both provided), and this is when driver and passenger can swap seats so both of you get time at the controls. The whole thing runs rain or shine, and in rainy season you may cross the Salt River on the way.

Everything you need is included: the buggy, helmet, fuel, water, snacks and a professional guide who speaks English. You just bring a valid driver's license and the willingness to steer through terrain that doesn't forgive hesitation. The operator has been running this route for over 27 years, and the two-hour window is tight enough that the day stays focused on the driving itself.

What’s included

• Professional guide leading the route.
• 2026 UTV Trail Sport buggy with fuel.
• helmet.
• bottled water and snacks at the midway break.
• photos during the adventure.

Information

Lasts 2h, runs every day, 4 start times, from US$ 175 per person, with a live guide in English and with free cancellation up to 24 h before.

Days and timesEvery day except Friday: 09:00, 12:00 and 15:30Friday: 09:00, 12:00, 15:30 and 15:45Another time? ›

GroupUp to 30 · max 2 per booking1 private ›

Live guideEnglishOther languages ›

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (8 and older) · Under 8: can't be booked

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Desert Dog Offroad Adventures

Is this one for you?Book this if you want to drive the terrain yourself rather than ride along. You're at the wheel for the whole two hours, and the midway swap means both driver and passenger get equal time operating the UTV. The tight two-hour window keeps the focus on the driving and the desert itself, not on a long itinerary of stops.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What kind of terrain will I actually drive on?

Tonto National Forest terrain includes rock gardens where you navigate between boulders, sandy washes with loose ground that shifts, and narrow desert canyons. You'll also see views of Saguaro Lake and the Four Peaks Mountain Range as the route climbs through the landscape.

Can both the driver and passenger take turns at the wheel?

Yes. At the midway break, the driver and passenger can swap seats, so both of you get time operating the UTV during the two-hour adventure.

What do I need to bring or know before I book?

You must have a valid driver's license to operate the UTV, and you need to be in at least moderate physical fitness. The activity is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or pregnancy. Passengers must be at least 8 years old, and there is a 400-pound weight limit per buggy.

What's included and what do I need to pay extra for?

The UTV, helmet, fuel, water, snacks, photos and a professional guide are all included. Tips for your guide are not included and are left to your discretion. Transportation to the trailhead can be arranged for an additional fee if you need it.

Does the tour run if the weather is bad?

Yes, the tour runs rain or shine. In the rainy season, the route may include a crossing of the Salt River, which adds an extra element to the drive.

How far is Tonto National Forest from Scottsdale?

Tonto National Forest is located just minutes from Scottsdale, making it the closest desert trail system to the city. You spend minimal time driving to the trailhead and maximum time on the terrain itself.