Looking to escape the city and experience the wild Arizona desert? You’re in luck—Phoenix is surrounded by some of the most exciting and scenic off-road trails in the state. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just want to take in the sights on a relaxing ride, this guide covers the top 5 off-road trails near Phoenix for your next ATV or UTV adventure.
Brought to you by AZ Rentals and More LLC—your go-to for premium ATV rentals near Phoenix.
1. Box Canyon (Florence, AZ)
Distance from Phoenix: ~1 hour southeast
Difficulty: Moderate
Best For: Adventurers looking for canyons, washes, and moderate rock crawling and onsite rentals available.
One of the most iconic off-road trails in AZ, Box Canyon delivers the full desert experience. With its narrow canyon walls, rugged terrain, and occasional water crossings, it’s a must-ride for ATV and UTV enthusiasts. You’ll experience some of the best desert scenery and off-road challenges the Florence area has to offer. Best of all you can rent onsite so no trailer is needed.
📍 Pro tip: This is a great route for self-guided GPS tours provided by AZ Rentals and More.
2. Bulldog Canyon
Distance from Phoenix: ~40 minutes east
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best For: Casual riders and scenic photography
Bulldog Canyon is one of the most accessible trail systems near Phoenix. Located just east of Mesa in the Tonto National Forest, the trails here offer sweeping views of the Superstition Mountains and gentle elevation changes. It’s perfect for beginners or families who want to enjoy a scenic ride without too much technical terrain.
Note: You’ll need a free permit to access the Bulldog Canyon OHV area.
3. Four Peaks Trail
Distance from Phoenix: ~1 hour northeast
Difficulty: Moderate
Best For: Full-day rides and variety of terrain
The Four Peaks area offers a long and scenic ride that transitions from low desert terrain to forested mountain views. The trail provides a diverse riding experience and is best tackled with a UTV or 4×4 vehicle. With plenty of open space, it’s perfect for riders looking to spend several hours exploring.
4. Sycamore Creek Trail
Distance from Phoenix: ~1 hour north
Difficulty: Easy
Best For: First-timers and relaxed cruising
If you’re new to ATV riding or just want an easy-going trail, Sycamore Creek is your spot. This trail runs through soft washes and open desert, with seasonal creek crossings that make it more fun in the spring. It’s great for families or those looking to dip their toes into off-roading.
5. Crown King Trail (via Lake Pleasant)
Distance from Phoenix: ~1.5–2 hours northwest
Difficulty: Challenging
Best For: Experienced riders and full-day explorers
This one is for the serious off-roaders. The trail to Crown King is one of Arizona’s most well-known and toughest routes, full of rocky climbs and steep drops. But the payoff is huge: you’ll end up in a historic mining town nestled in the pine forest. It’s a legendary ride worth the effort if you have the skills and the right vehicle.
Tips for Riding Off-Road Near Phoenix
- 🔋 Prepare your gear: Check tires, fuel, and charge GPS devices.
- 🧢 Wear protection: Always use a helmet, goggles, gloves, and proper shoes.
- 🗺️ Know the route: Some areas have no cell service. Download trail maps in advance.
- ☀️ Hydrate and dress appropriately: Arizona’s sun is no joke—even in winter.
- 📷 Bring a camera: You’ll want photos of this adventure.
Rent an ATV or UTV Near Phoenix with AZ Rentals and More
AZ Rentals and More LLC offers top-quality ATVs and UTVs, GPS-guided rentals, and friendly service so you can ride confidently through Arizona’s wild backcountry. Whether you’re planning a self-guided ride or want a guided UTV tour, we’ve got the gear and knowledge to help you explore safely.
📅 Book your ATV or UTV today:
👉 Visit www.rentalphoenixaz.com
📞 Or call us at (480) 331-7623
Want More Trail Info?
Check out our full Ultimate Guide to ATV Rentals in Arizona to learn about renting, safety, and what to bring.