Off the Beaten Path Southwest Adventures

Scottsdale, Phoenix and the surrounding areas are known for their stunning, idyllic Sonoran Desert landscapes, natural beauty and adventurous outdoor activities.

Widely recognized as a sought-after destination for relaxation and rejuvenation, this part of the Southwest offers upscale resorts and spas, in addition to a thriving arts and culture scene, with countless galleries and museums showcasing both contemporary and Native American art.

It is a region with something for everyone, whether that be a heart-pounding river rafting excursion or laid-back horseback ride to hikes within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve or on Camelback Mountain. 

Horseback Riding with Windwalker Expeditions

Regardless of your experience, Windwalker Expeditions will curate a memorable, one-of-a-kind horseback riding adventure. This company takes guests out on private excursions through the beautiful desert terrain, utilizing an array of special trailheads in Arizona dependent on riders' skill levels. Well-behaved horses; expert guides excited to teach you everything they know about the desert and horses; and an overall superb, one-on-one experience await guests who choose to ride with Windwalker.

Hot Air Balloon Ride with Rainbow Ryders

Rainbow Ryders is an award-winning company that has been the official ride operator for the largest hot air balloon event in the world, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta since 2002. Hot air ballooning over the Sonoran Desert is an exhilarating experience that offers a unique perspective on this remarkable landscape. As you rise higher into the sky, the Sonoran Desert unfurls beneath you, extending in all directions, showcasing its rugged mountains and vibrant cacti scattered across the arid landscape. It's a serene experience that allows you to take in the ever-changing colors of the sky and the breathtaking views of the desert. Keep your eyes open for desert wildlife, such as coyotes and majestic hawks soaring overhead.

ATV Tour With Desert Wolf Tours

This award-winning tour company takes guests on a wild ride through the epic desert terrain as they get the opportunity to drive military-grade TomCar side-by-side ATVs. Adventure deep into the Sonoran Desert to experience a dynamic terrain featuring mountain vistas, ancient Indian ruins, freshwater oases and more. Learn about the  Sonoran Desert plants, animals, reptiles, insects and more from experienced guides as you off-road across one of the most unique deserts on earth.

Desert Hiking 

This region of Arizona is home to a wide variety of trails on several epic, majestic mountains and preserves. From the challenging Cholla Trail and Echo Canyon Trail at Camelback Mountain, which offers 360-degree views at its summit, to Tom’s Thumb Trailhead in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, which features over 215 miles of trails, there are countless adventures to be had on foot. It's one of the easiest ways to immerse yourself in the rugged landscape and jaw-dropping beauty that is the Sonoran Desert. From towering saguaro cacti and prickly pear cacti to vibrant wildflowers and surprisingly green plant life, you'll be surprised just how diverse this ecosystem really is. If you're unsure of guiding yourself through the array of trails on potentially difficult terrain, check out REI's list of guided hikes and tours.

U-Drive Jeep or Bronco tour

For over 25 years, Desert Dog Offroad Adventures has been hosting private tours offering guests the chance to drive themselves through some of the most incredible Sonoran Desert trails (some of which you typically need permits). Jump into an off-road, suped-up Wranger or Bronco as you follow professional guides through gorgeous canyons, rock gardens, water crossings, sandy washes and more. From Superstition Mountains to Four Peaks, there are miles of adrenaline-pumping terrain for any driver looking to explore the saguaro-dotted terrain of this iconic desert region.

Stellar Adventures

This family-owned and operated tour company offers a selection of unique off-roading tours that pair an exciting excursion in the Sonoran Desert on a H1 Hummer, ATV or UTV with a culinary adventure. From "Wheels and Whiskey," which offers a whiskey flight with food at O.H.S.O. Distillery, to “Trails and Tequila,” which offers Tacos, Tequila and Margaritas from Cien Agaves, these tours offer rugged fun paired with delicious food and drink. They also offer one-of-a-kind stargazing tours with expert astronomers from March through October. 

Kayaking on Salt River (Photo Credit: Chelsea Davis)

Kayaking on the Lower Salt River 

Kayaking down the icy cold Lower Salt River is the perfect way to cool off and experience the Sonoran Desert from a new perspective. With REI, guests are invited to kayak down the class-1 river with unobstructed views of four different mountain ranges as their backdrop. From wild horses, great blue herons and bald eagles, wildlife surrounds this rushing river. This is a thrilling excursion, one that's best with an REI guide to assist you down the gentle rapids and teach you all about the flora and fauna that you'll see.

Mountain Shadows + Hotel Valley Ho

Nestled beneath the majestic Camelback Mountain, Mountain Shadows Resort embodies the perfect blend of modernism and 1950s charm. Surrounded by a tranquil oasis, guests are greeted by the awe-inspiring backdrop of Camelback Mountain, two 75-foot pools lined with swaying palm trees, and the American restaurant, Hearth '61. With a strong focus on well-being and fitness, this serene sanctuary offers a range of rejuvenating experiences.

Just a short distance from Downtown Scottsdale, Hotel Valley Ho exudes a vibrant ambiance that pays homage to its retro-chic vibe, reminiscent of the iconic Mad Men era. Originally established in 1956, this mid-century marvel showcases the distinctive design elements of the region while providing all the luxuries to make for the perfect modern-day escape. From elevated comfort food at ZuZu to electrifying pool parties at OH Pool, it's a vibrant property.

Camelback mountain views (Photo Credit: Chelsea Davis)

CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa + JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa

Situated within over 20 acres of the breathtaking Sonoran Desert is CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa, an ideal property for those seeking a transformative journey of wellness and rejuvenation.  This wellness resort offers a world-class spa and provides personalized experiences creating the ideal environment to reconnect with your mind and body. Guests can curate their own immersive and impactful wellness experiences with a number of classes ranging from stretching and yoga to sound meditation and floating relaxation.

For guests looking for a luxurious resort, check in at the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn. Located on 125 acres of Sonoran Desert landscape, the property sits at the base of Mummy Mountain, with sweeping views of the iconic Camelback Mountain and the renowned Four Peaks of Arizona in the distance. This beautiful desert resort offers a 32,000-square-foot spa, two championship golf courses spanning 36 holes, six tennis courts, two heated outdoor swimming pools, and a variety of delicious dining options across its seven restaurants and lounges.

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