If you know one thing about Arizona, it’s probably that it is the state with the Grand Canyon. However, there are all kinds of beautiful landmarks and breathtaking vistas throughout the rest of the state—a mix of red rock desert, towering saguaro cacti, mountain forests, scenic canyons, and volcano cinders—and the best way to experience them all is from the seat of a quad or side-by-side.
There are hundreds of off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails in Arizona, all perfect for year-round riding and begging to be explored by a growing local off-roading community and intrepid out-of-state adventurers. We couldn’t begin to cover them all, but we’ve put together some highlights to get you started.
NOTE: Park details and prices reflect what was current as of January 2026.
For anyone who feels the call to adventure, there’s nothing quite like riding through some of the last truly untamed places in the country. With more than 5,000 miles of hard-packed dirt, rocky trails, beautiful woodland areas, and breathtaking elevation, this remote swath between the Grand Canyon and Utah offers endless opportunities for exploration. Be aware—if you’re heading out in the Arizona Strip, you need to be prepared. Pack essentials like spare drive belts, storage solutions for hauling supplies, and GPS units to make sure you can always find your way back.
This ride offers a lovely mix of desert views and historic landmarks, with most of the trip traveling through the Agua Fria National Monument. Take in awe-inspiring views at 5,000 feet of elevation, enjoy hidden hot springs, and stop at the various archaeological sites and petroglyphs along the way. This route is well-suited for riders of most skill levels, but it pays to be ready for the elements. Adding a windshield and roof to your UTV will help protect you from debris and the Arizona sun, while LED light bars will light up the trails if you’re riding after dark.
If you’re looking for a bit of a challenge, Broken Arrow is a great option in Sedona. Technical obstacles abound, including The Steps and Chicken Point, giving experienced riders the opportunity to test themselves among Arizona’s iconic red rock formations. To make sure your machine is ready for ledges, off-camber sections, and rocky trails, upgrade your skid plates, A-arms, and axles.
One of the more unique riding terrains you’ll encounter in Arizona is the vast open spaces and trails of the Cinder Hills OHV area. Featuring steep cinder climbs, volcanic terrain, and 7,000+ feet of elevation, resulting in a more temperate climate, this is one of the most interesting rides you’ll find in this region. Before you tackle the loose cinder terrain, be sure your machine has the upgraded tires and clutch system you’ll need for peak performance.
Less than a couple of hours from Phoenix is the awesome Crown King trail. Featuring an elevation gain and scenic switchbacks that take you through pine forests and historic mining towns, this is a uniquely varied trail with hard-pack dirt, forest trails, rocks, and hills. Since this trail offers little shelter from the sun or elements outside of the forested areas, a roof and windshield are key for safety and comfort. Some extra storage will also make it easier to bring extra supplies and clothing you may need to deal with the variation in climate due to the elevation.
Looking for a challenging landmark? How about summiting the tallest mountain in southwest Arizona? This ride involves ascending all 5,681 feet of Harquahala Mountain on hard-pack dirt and rocky terrain. Steady switchbacks make for beautiful scenery, and the summit offers unbeatable panoramic views that are well worth the ride. Make sure you can finish the ride by upgrading your tires and adding a winch to keep you and your buddies from getting stuck in the rocky sections near Harquahala’s summit.
Bulldog Canyon has a little something for everyone, with all kinds of trails and terrain types. You’ll enjoy the picturesque Arizona desert from the various trail options that are fun for new and experienced riders alike. You do need to purchase your permit before heading out, as there is a gate code that you’ll need to get into the Bulldog Canyon area.
This is another more technical ride, so beginners may want to get some extra experience under their belts before heading to Queen Valley. For those ready for the challenges of dramatic elevation changes, a variety of terrain types, and tight switchbacks on the ride down, this trek is for you. The reward is a gorgeous mountain adventure that climbs up Montana Mountain via a narrow trail with water crossings, with plenty of scenic overlooks. Outfit your ATV or UTV with an upgraded, high-clearance suspension, heavy-duty winch, and protective skid plates so you’re ready for this gem of an Arizona trail adventure.
For a real Arizona desert experience, there aren’t many trails or rides that are better for OHV lovers than Redington Pass. Full of hard-pack dirt trails, water crossings, valleys teeming with saguaro, and enough technical patches to keep things interesting, this is a great ride for anyone looking to take on the challenges of the desert. Since the desert can be, well, hot, this would be the perfect time to add a roof fan for extra comfort, as well as lights and mirrors for additional safety while on the trails with others.
If you’re riding with a family or a group, this is one of the best options around. Located near Saguaro Lake and with plenty of trail options to choose from, there’s a little something for everyone at The Rolls OHV Area. An easy drive from Phoenix, this off-roading haven is a great choice for all-day trips without having to worry about camping or finding a place to stay out in the middle of nowhere. While suitable for riders of all experience levels, it is still helpful to add a bit of protection to your machine, like a half windshield, just in case. Additional cargo space can also come in handy for bringing all the supplies you need for a full day of riding and exploration.
Go from iconic red rock desert to lush pine forest trails all in one ride along Schnebly Hill Road. This ride is unique insofar that it starts at the Mogollon Rim and descends into an idyllic forest setting, with plenty of hiking and camping options along the way. While the trail isn’t full of boulders, it can be uneven. An upgraded suspension system and tires with plenty of grip are recommended for this type of ride.
White Pocket is a great opportunity for anyone without tons of experience riding in sand to get a taste of the fun and challenge of the terrain. Plus, riders can enjoy the striking sandstone formations and unique geological features of the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument while taking on the sandy conditions. With mostly unmaintained trails that are all dirt and soft sand, purpose-built tires and a winch to get out of tricky spots are a must.
No matter which Arizona trail you want to tackle with your UTV or ATV, it’s important to prepare for the high temperatures at lower elevations, cooler temperature shifts as you get higher or during the night, loose sand, and plenty of rocks. For your own safety, be sure you’ve always packed some desert essentials—our own checklist would include:
Find everything you need to prepare your UTV or ATV for taking on any of Arizona’s amazing trails by shopping SuperATV’s full lineup of parts and accessories. And if you have another favorite ride in Arizona, make sure to drop a comment down below!
11 Comments
My husband and I are planning a road trip with camper and side by side. These are beautiful trails. Any chance dry camping (or campgrounds) is available with drive in and out? Any information is greatly appreciated. Thanking you in advance
Lisa
Hi Lisa—Are you looking at any of these locations specifically? That will help me narrow down some recommendations.
we are heading to Arizona in a few weeks with RV and side by side in tow. did you get any good answers to your question…..
WICKENBURG has acres and acres of areas to dry camp along with the biggest variety of riding in Arizona
Wickenburg off Constellation road has a huge amount of area to dry camp, and some of the best trails
where in arizona would be a good place to visit and be able to ride miles and miles of trail/roads with a sxs for like a week and not ride the same trails everyday? thaks
FLORANCE/ BOX CANYON AND QUEEN VALLEY AREA. BOONDOCKING. UNFORTUNATELY IS ONLY DONE IN THE WINTER MONTHS.
Wickenburg area
NORTH OF SAN FRANCISCO PEAKS- ELK, DEER TURKEY! – Kendrick Park area is a great starting point to go east and behind the PEAKS!! Take Forest service road NF-514 (Kendrick Park Rd.) east just past MP 8.2, then go left at the “Y” onto Forest Rd. NF-548 that loops back around west to get you back to HWY 180. Lots of vehicle free roads that are hard to find. Stop by the Silver Airstream and say hi when you guys are up this way. Plenty of water and space to camp around. If I’m not there, feel free to camp, but clean up all your trash. THANKS!!
Are there places to camp nearby? I prefer colder months to ride. Is January-March a good time?
Hey Charles,
It depends on which trail you’re looking at! When you decide which one you’d prefer, you can check on google what campgrounds are around!