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Experiences Guide: Wander Cave Creek

 Natalie profile picture NatalieMay 10, 2024

Cave Creek may be a small desert town outside of Phoenix but don't be fooled by its size—there's still plenty to do in the area. If you're looking to explore the area around Wander Cave Creek, then we have some suggestions for you.

Sonoran Desert Jeep Tour at Sunset

Photo by Scottsdale Adventure Tours

There's something magical about seeing the desert landscape under a stunning sunset backdrop. This off-road jeep tour will take you through parts of Tonto National Forest and Pinnacle Peak Park where you'll learn about the desert's wildlife and history from your guide.

Take note that this is a guided tour, meaning that you won't be driving the jeep. This experience is open year-round but be sure to bring a coat or jacket from November to February.

Sonoran Desert Private Guided Mountain Bike Tour

Photo by Arizona Adventure Guides

If you prefer to see the desert via a private and customized tour, then this cycling tour is the way to go. It's a 2-hour experience that lets you hop on a mountain bike and explore the rugged trails of the Sonoran Desert.

The tour already includes a bunch of essentials like sunscreen and water bottles so you don't have to worry about packing for your cycling trip.

Tom's Thumb Hiking Adventure

Photo by Mad Desert Trekking

Tom’s Thumb is a unique granite landmark that's the centerpiece of this 3-hour long hike. This is the perfect experience if you want to learn more about the desert's geological features, as well as local flora and fauna.

This private tour also bottled water, some snacks, sunscreen, and the use of backpacks. Service dogs are allowed.

Party Bike Pub Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale

Photo by Arizona Party Bike

Hop on this party bike for a two-hour pub crawl of Old Town Scottsdale! This one-of-a-kind experience will take you to three bars where you'll receive exclusive drink specials.

Take note that the final stop is Pattie's First Avenue Lounge—a classic dive bar in Old Town Scottsdale. This experience also requires six passengers in order to comfortably pedal the party bike. Minimum age to participate is 21 years old.

Grand Canyon Day Trip (Helicopter + Ground)

Photo by Detours of Arizona

Take a grand adventure over Grand Canyon with this special tour that lets you enjoy the sights from both land and sky.

This tour commences with a 45-minute helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon, which then follows some free time at the South Rim where you can find scenic lookout points.

You can take your kids with you too as the minimum age allowed is 3 years old. Just take note that Arizona state law requires children under 8 years to have either a child seat or booster. Not to worry though—you can request for a child seat beforehand.

MTM Ranch Horseback Adventures

Photo by MTM Ranch Horseback Adventure 

  • Distance from Wander Cave Creek: 5 miles 

  • Location: 43001 N Spur Cross Rd, Cave Creek, AZ 85331

  • Hours: Hours vary depending on the ride 

  • Phone: (480) 488-4538

  • Website: https://www.mtmranch.com/

The MTM Ranch has been continuously operating on its private 870 acres since 1989. Educated guides will take you on a journey through scenic and intimate parts of the desert. 1-hour to 4-hour tours are available. 

Time To Ride AZ ATV & UTV Rentals

Photo by Time To Ride AZ ATV & UTV Rentals

  • Distance from Wander Cave Creek: 5.2 miles 

  • Location: 7171 E Cave Creek Rd Ste J, Cave Creek, AZ 85331

  • Hours: 8AM-5PM daily 

  • Phone: (480) 597-7559

  • Website: https://timetorideaz.com/ 

This self-guided ATV and UTV rental shop is the closest shop to the trails, so you can jump right into it. Half-Day rate (4 hours) are at $135 while full-day rates (8 hours) are set at $195.

Sonoran Desert 2 Hour Guided ATV Adventure

Photo by Stellar Adventures

Alternatively, you may also choose this experience if you prefer to explore the vast Sonoran Desert. Apart from the use of an ATV and safety equipment, this self-guided tour also includes snacks, water, and photography!

Rancho Manana Golf Club

Photo by Rancho Manana Golf Club 

  • Distance from Wander Cave Creek: 5 miles

  • Location: 5734 E Rancho Manana Blvd, Cave Creek, AZ 85331

  • Hours: 5:30AM-5PM daily 

  • Phone: (480) 488-0398

  • Website: https://ranchomanana.com/ 

Recently listed by Golf Digest as one of the top courses in Arizona and the entire country, Rancho Manana Golf Club is a must-visit stop in Cave Creek. It features dramatic elevation changes, unspoiled desert terrain, topped with a rustic charm of the historic dude ranch, which is now part of the golf resort property. T-times must be booked ahead of time. 

Cave Creek Museum

Photo by Cave Creek Museum

  • Distance from Wander Cave Creek: 5 miles 

  • Location: 6140 E Skyline Dr, Cave Creek, AZ 85331

  • Hours: 1PM-4:30PM Wednesday-Sunday

  • Phone: (480) 488-2764

  • Website: https://cavecreekmuseum.org/ 

Cave Creek Museum is home to artifacts of the prehistory, history, culture and legacy of the Cave Creek Mining District and the Cave Creek/Carefree foothills area. Admission is $7 per person. Note that the museum is open from October through May only.

Frontier Town, Cave Creek, AZ

Photo by Frontier Town Website 

  • Distance from Wander Cave Creek: 5 miles 

  • Location: 6245 E Cave Creek Rd, Cave Creek, AZ 85331

  • Hours: 10AM-5PM daily 

  • Phone: (480) 488-9129

  • Website: https://www.frontiertownaz.com/ 

Frontier Town is located at the center of Cave Creek and offers visitors an old west experience. From the moment you enter, you’ll be transported through history as you walk along Main Street, which is filled with lovely boutique shops. Chances are, you'll also probably also run into public re-enactments like duels—truly an interactive experience for kids!

Destination Balloon Rides

Photo by Destination Balloon Rides

Admire the spectacular beauty of the desert from above as you take in panoramic views of Phoenix’s vibrant flora and fauna. Sit back and relax as the sun paints this unparalleled landscape in a breathtaking array of hues during sunrise and sunset tours. Packages available for small groups (from $225) and private (from $900) hot air balloon rides


Whether it be a helicopter ride around Phoenix or a pub crawl of Scottsdale, Cave Creek has everything you'll need to quench your thirst for adventure! Text Wander Concierge at 737-377-3205 to help you plan the best vacation ever!

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