Phoenix

Outdoor Adventures in Phoenix and Beyond (That Don’t Involve Hiking)

by Leila Violette

Photograph by Leila Violette

Experience Arizona’s beauty on a mountain bike ride. (Photo: Getty Images)

Phoenix and its surrounding areas are exceptional places to explore the great outdoors, and most people default to doing so on a hike. Truth is, you don’t have to wear a giant pair of hiking boots to enjoy the region’s natural beauty.

Instead of lacing up, invest in Velcro knee and elbow pads for a mountain biking trip or snap on a helmet and give rock climbing a try; you’re not limited to hiking during your outdoor adventures in Phoenix and beyond.

As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.

Peddle Your Way Around

Rent from a spot like REI Co-op Adventure Centers and choose from an array of elite performance bikes for the ultimate off-roading bike trip. Stop in and choose your bike before heading out and discovering awesome Phoenix mountain bike trails and those in areas like Sedona.

Another option is to take a guided tour, like the Sonoran Desert Guided Mountain Bike Tour. Everything is provided, from bikes and safety gear to snacks and water, so all you need to do is show up ready to pedal.

View the Sights from the Saddle

Follow your experienced guide on a scenic ride through the desert and mountains, passing cactuses and uniquely formed rocks along the way. With Arizona Horses, you can choose to do an evening ride to a restaurant for dinner and gaze up at the stars as guides expertly navigate the way back.

They’ve been in the business since 1975, so they know what they’re doing. Take the trail less trodden and hold on as these magnificent animals take you through the trails.

Skim the Mountainside on a Climb

woman rock climbing
See the sights from above on an epic climb. (Photo: Getty Images)

There’s no feeling comparable to holding on to the side of a mountain and finding the next spot to place your foot as you hoist yourself ever higher. Rock climbing is a heart-pounding, thrilling, and challenging experience, and Phoenix is one of the most picturesque places to do it.

Regardless if you’re a rock climbing novice or expert, 360 Adventures is happy to find the rock climbing experience most tailored to your skills.

Choose from a half-day or full-day excursion and rest assured that all the gear will be provided for you, aside from shoes (make sure you wear athletic ones). All ages are welcome; the only requirement is that everyone is able to fit into all of the gear.

Kick It Up a Notch with ATV Rentals

person on ATV
Whether you choose a standard, sunset, or ghost tour, an ATV experience in the desert is unforgettable. (Photo: Getty Images)

Bounce, zoom, fly, and hold on as you take a guided ATV tour in the Sonoran Desert. From training sessions to full guided tours, taking to the land on four wheels mixes sightseeing with adrenaline-pumping adventure.

See sights like the Bradshaw Mountains, the famous towering saguaro cactuses, and even catch glimpses of desert wildlife.