Scottsdale "Original" AZ Desert Mountain Jeep Tours. Climb aboard our rugged 4-wheel, open-air jeeps for the western experience of a lifetime. Scottsdale, AZ 85253 Phone: 800-567-3619 http://www.azdesertmountain.com/

Coniferous Forest



Coniferous forest occurs in the higher mountain ranges throughout the Sonoran Desert. This Rocky Mountain montane forest is the dominant vegetation of the cold- temperate Rocky Mountains. Its elevation increases southward until it is pushed off the tops of the mountains by excessive aridity and warmth in Mexico. In the mountains west of the Sonoran Desert are isolated islands of Sierran (as in Sierra Nevada) coniferous forest, characterized by different species of conifers and other plants.

The Sonoran Desert


The Sonoran Desert as currently defined covers approximately 100,000 square miles (260,000 sq.km.) and includes most of the southern half of Arizona, southeastern California, most of the Baja California peninsula, the islands of the Gulf of California, and much of the state of Sonora, Mexico. It is lush in comparison to most other deserts. Two visually dominant life forms of plants distinguish the Sonoran Desert from the other North American deserts: legume trees and columnar cacti. It also supports many other life forms encompassing a rich spectrum of some 2,000 species of plants.

The amount and seasonality of rainfall are defining characteristics of the Sonoran Desert. Much of the area has a biseasonal rainfall pattern, though even during the rainy seasons most days are sunny. From December to March frontal storms from North Pacific Ocean occasionally bring widespread, gentle rain to the northwestern areas. From July to mid-September, the summer monsoon brings surges of wet tropical air and frequent but localized violent thunderstorms.

The Sonoran Desert prominently differs from the other three North American Deserts in having mild winters; most of the area rarely experiences frost. About half of the biota is tropical in origin, with life cycles attuned to the brief summer rainy season. The winter rains, when ample, produce huge populations of annuals (which comprise half of the species in our flora).

Kangaroo Rats

Kangaroo rats can survive their entire lives without drinking a drop of water. The water they do get from seeds or insects is recycled in the body. Their nasal passages actually cool their breath, condensing the moisture into water droplets that are reabsorbed into their body.

Rough Rider Adventure

HOLD ON TO YOUR SEATS! If a trip back in time is what you're looking for, we've got it! This rugged four-wheel adventure has it all! You will be surrounded by spectacular desert beauty, as you forge your way through the heart of gold and Indian country. cross-rivers and creeks and climb to an old Indian Fortress. High on a flat top hill, you can see how the Indians used to live and defend their homes, women and children from hostile predators, man or beast.  Your guide will recreate a historic time gone by. If you are a rugged outdoorsman or a cityslicker on vacation, join us on a tour of a newest trail. You will have the time of your life! 3 TO 4 HOURS

ICE COLD BEVERAGES IN EVERY VEHICLE
(4 person minimum)

Seven Cities of Gold

The Seven Cities of Gold is a myth that led to several expeditions by adventurers and conquistadors in the 16th century. It is also featured in several works of popular culture. According to legend, the seven cities of gold (Cibola) could be found in the Sonoran Desert in Arizona.

Scottsdale's Original Jeep Tours

We are truly Scottsdale's "Original" AZ Desert Mountain Jeep Tours. Climb aboard our rugged 4-wheel, open-air jeeps for the western experience of a lifetime.