Scottsdale & Tonto: Sunset Desert Jeep Tour with Lookout

Summary

Sunset jeep ride through Tonto’s wild trails and desert colors

You’ll bounce through rugged Tonto National Forest trails in an open-air Jeep from Scottsdale, guided by locals who know every saguaro and story. Expect sunset views over Pinnacle Peak, a stop at a panoramic lookout, and small moments—like red dust on your hands—that linger long after you’re back in town.

What’s the experience like?

We were already bouncing along the dusty trail north of Scottsdale when I realized my hat was hanging on for dear life. The sun wasn’t down yet but you could feel it starting to cool off, that dry Arizona air slipping under your sleeves. Our guide, Mike, had this way of talking about the saguaros like they were old friends — he even pointed out one with a “bad haircut,” which made everyone laugh. The Jeep itself rattled so much I nearly lost my water bottle twice (they give you one at the start, thankfully), but honestly, it just made it feel more real than any museum tour ever could.

I didn’t expect how quiet it would get when we stopped at the lookout above the Great Western Trail. Even with a group, there was this hush as the sun started dipping behind Pinnacle Peak and everything turned gold and purple. Someone tried to take a selfie and dropped their phone in the red dirt — they got it back, no harm done, but their hands looked like they’d been finger-painting. Mike told us stories about the old western town ruins nearby and how some of these trails connect all the way up through Tonto National Forest. You could smell creosote in the air after a breeze kicked up — kind of sharp and earthy, not what I expected from “just” desert.

The ride back felt colder than I thought it would — if you go between November and February, trust me, bring a jacket. There’s something about watching headlights snake back toward Scottsdale while your teeth are still buzzing from all those bumps that sticks with you. I still think about that last bit of sunlight catching on someone’s cowboy boots as we climbed out of the Jeep. Not sure if I’ll ever look at cactus flowers the same way again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset Jeep tour in Tonto Forest

• Depart from Scottsdale office
• Drive to Tonto National Forest trailhead
• Explore off-road Jeep trails
• Pass Pinnacle Peak viewpoint
• Pass old western town buildings
• Stop at panoramic sunset lookout
• Learn about desert flora and history
• Return to starting point

Top questions

How long does the sunset desert jeep tour last?

The tour lasts between 2 to 3 hours depending on time of year.

Is hotel pickup included for this jeep tour?

No, but public transportation options are available nearby.

Are there health restrictions for this off-road jeep tour?

Yes; not recommended for those with spinal injuries, neck problems, poor cardiovascular health or motion sickness. Pregnant individuals cannot join.

What should I wear for the Sonoran Desert jeep tour?

Closed-toed shoes are mandatory; bring a coat or jacket from November to February as temperatures drop after sunset.

Will we be driving the jeep ourselves?

No; this is a guide-led tour only—guests do not drive.

Is bottled water provided during the tour?

Yes; bottled water is included for all guests.

How rough is the ride on this jeep tour?

The ride is low-speed but very bumpy and jarring due to rough terrain.

Where does the sunset lookout stop take place?

The panoramic lookout is above the historic Great Western Trail near Pinnacle Peak Park in North Scottsdale.

What’s included

Your evening includes a bumpy open-air Jeep ride led by local guides through Tonto National Forest’s wild trails north of Scottsdale, with bottled water provided along the way and a stop at a scenic sunset lookout before heading back into town together.