Scottsdale , United States

Sonoran Desert Jeep Tour

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(889 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Our rigorous Sonoran Desert Jeep Tour is a low-speed, bumpy sightseeing tour of the scenic Sonoran desert via the Tonto National Forest. Your professional tour guide, who is a certified off-road driver and the only driver throughout your Jeep tour, will teach you about the Sonoran desert flora and fauna on the most scenic trails in the Scottsdale area.

Vehicles used: Jeep YJ (7 seats).

Scottsdale Adventure Tours is a special recreation permit-holder through the U.S. Department of Agriculture: Cave Creek Ranger District and the U.S. Department of the Interior: Bureau of Land Management.

Be aware that there is an weight limit of 275 lbs per person

Available options

Sonoran Desert Jeep Tour

What's included

Bottled water

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The trailhead is located 15 minutes northeast of the Pinnacle Peak General Store. Off-Road Jeep Adventures is a commercial permit holder through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Cave Creek Ranger District

Stop 2 Pass by

Pinnacle Peak is a granite summit located in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Reata pass is the last standing buildings of an old western stage coach station from the 1880's.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

9 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

880 reviews

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874

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Closed-toed shoes are mandatory.

This is a guide-led tour; guests will NOT be driving the Jeeps.

From November to February, we strongly recommend warm clothing.

Our bumpy off-road Jeep tours are low-speed, jarring rides through rough terrain. Please ensure that every guest in your party understands that this off-road tour is a low-speed, bumpy ride through rough terrain.

Please carefully review our list of health restrictions and requirements. Due to safety concerns, we are unable to accommodate guests who do not meet the tour requirements. Ensure each guest in your party reads and understands the tour requirements. There will be no refunds issued to guests who fail to read and understand the health restrictions and requirements of this tour.

No Neck Problems.

Not recommended for guests who easily get motion sickness.

Weight limit per seat: 275 pounds. Please contact our office to make special arrangements.

Must be physically able to climb a step ladder to enter the lifted Jeeps.

Not recommended for passengers with any condition that can be aggravated by a bumpy off-road ride through rough terrain.

Pregnant individuals are prohibited from participating in this high risk activity.

Meeting point

Our operations office is located on the east side of the Village at Pinnacle Peak: 8711 E Pinnacle Peak Road, Suite F-108, Scottsdale, AZ 85255. Type Scottsdale Adventure Tours into Google maps and the app will navigate directly to the front door of our operations office.

Important notes

Important information: Please fill out the online waiver before your tour: https://web.wherewolf.co.nz/3derhx

Tour meeting location: Our operations office is located on the east side of the Village at Pinnacle Peak: 8711 East Pinnacle Peak Road Suite F-108, Scottsdale, Arizona 85255. Type Scottsdale Adventure Tours into Google maps and the app will navigate directly to the front door of our operations office.

If you are unable to locate our operations office with a navigation app, follow the signs labeled "JEEP TOURS" with arrows pointing toward our operations office after you enter the parking lot of the Village at Pinnacle Peak. Our operations is east (east= toward the mountains) of the Shell gas station/Pinnacle Peak General Store and south of the Chase Bank.

Please check-in to our operations office 15 minutes before your reservation time. The reservation time is the final boarding call. If you are late, we will be unable to accommodate your group. No refunds or reschedules will be issued to late arrivals. Uber/Lyft drivers are almost always late and traffic patterns vary, so we recommend arriving 30-45 minutes early.

Our off-road Jeep tours are very BUMPY, jarring rides through rough terrain. Please ensure that your party understands that this Jeep tour is a very bumpy ride. This is a guide-led tour; guests will not drive the Jeeps. Closed-toed shoes are mandatory (no sandals). This tour is not suitable for guests with back problems, neck problems, motion sickness, expectant mothers, or any health issue that can be aggravated by a bumpy ride. Please ensure that this experience is suitable for every guest in your party. This is a low-speed sightseeing tour; tour guides will not perform any unsafe tricks or maneuvers. Bring warm clothing from October to March. The temperature will drop ~30 degrees after sunset. Bottled water is included. Guests can bring drinks but no glass containers. No pets. No smoking or vaping during the tour.

About Scottsdale

Scottsdale, Arizona, is a vibrant desert city known for its luxury resorts, world-class golf courses, and vibrant arts scene. Nestled in the Sonoran Desert, it offers a unique blend of Southwestern culture, outdoor adventures, and high-end shopping and dining.

Top Attractions

Old Town Scottsdale

Old Town Scottsdale is the historic heart of the city, known for its vibrant arts scene, Southwestern architecture, and lively nightlife. It's a great place to experience the local culture, shopping, and dining.

Cultural Half day to full day Free to explore, varies for shopping and dining

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

This park features a collection of historic railroad equipment, a miniature train, and a carousel. It's a fun and educational attraction for families and train enthusiasts.

Historical 1-2 hours Free admission, small fee for train rides and carousel

Scottsdale Museum of the West

This museum showcases the history and culture of the American West through exhibits, artifacts, and art. It's a great place to learn about the region's rich heritage.

Museum 1-2 hours $10 for adults, discounts for seniors and children

Desert Botanical Garden

This 140-acre garden features a diverse collection of desert plants from around the world. It's a beautiful and educational attraction, especially during the spring blooms.

Nature 2-3 hours $25 for adults, discounts for seniors and children

Taliesin West

This was the winter home and architectural school of Frank Lloyd Wright, one of America's most famous architects. The site features Wright's distinctive architecture and beautiful desert landscapes.

Historical 1-2 hours for a tour $28 for adults, discounts for seniors and children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sonoran Hot Dog

A bacon-wrapped hot dog topped with beans, onions, tomatoes, and jalapeños. It's a popular street food in the Southwest.

Snack Contains pork and common allergens like mustard and onions.

Chimichanga

A deep-fried burrito filled with meat, beans, and cheese, often served with salsa and sour cream.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan with plant-based fillings.

Prickly Pear Margarita

A margarita made with prickly pear cactus juice, giving it a unique sweet and tart flavor.

Drink Contains alcohol and may contain allergens like citrus.

Popular Activities

Hiking Hot air balloon rides ATV tours Spa treatments Golfing Resort lounging Art galleries Museums

Best Time to Visit

November to April

The best time to visit Scottsdale is during the cooler months, from November to April. The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and golfing. This is also the peak tourist season, with many events and festivals taking place.

10-25°C 50-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (GMT-7)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Scottsdale is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious when using ATMs
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport • 15 km from city center
Scottsdale Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Scottsdale Station

By bus

Scottsdale Station, Tempe Station

Getting around

Public transport

The light rail is clean, efficient, and connects major destinations in Scottsdale and Phoenix. It's a great option for getting around without a car.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Scottsdale Downtown Scottsdale North Scottsdale South Scottsdale

Day trips

Sedona

120 km from Scottsdale • Full day

Sedona is known for its stunning red rock formations, vibrant arts scene, and spiritual retreats. It's a popular destination for hiking, sightseeing, and relaxation.

Grand Canyon National Park

350 km from Scottsdale • Full day or overnight

One of the natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon offers breathtaking views, hiking, and ranger-led programs.

Tempe

15 km from Scottsdale • Half day

Tempe is a vibrant college town known for its lively nightlife, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions.

Festivals

Scottsdale Culinary Festival • April Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show • February Scottsdale International Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit during the cooler months (November-April) for the best weather and outdoor activities.
Rent a car for easy exploration of the city and surrounding desert.
Experience the Scottsdale ArtWalk on Thursday evenings for a free self-guided tour of local galleries.
Try local Southwestern cuisine, including dishes like chimichangas, Sonoran hot dogs, and prickly pear margaritas.
Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season.