Military Muscle in the Sonoran Desert: A Guide's Take on the M1009 Blazer Tour
Where the Pavement Ends, the Fun Begins
Some vehicles are built for highways. The Chevrolet M1009 Blazer was built for everywhere else. If you've ever watched one of these military-grade rigs climb a rocky ridgeline and thought "I want to be in that," the M1009 Blazer tour is your invitation.
This is a guided off-road trek through the remote trails and scenic ridgelines of the Sonoran Desert - roughly two hours of trail time, zero driving required on your part, and views you simply can't reach in a rental car.
What Makes the M1009 So Special?
The M1009 (that's M-10-oh-9) is a military-style Blazer with a reputation for going where other vehicles quit:
- Diesel V8 power: A torque-heavy engine that shrugs off steep, rocky climbs.
- The best shocks available: Power doesn't matter if you're getting bounced around - the suspension keeps the ride surprisingly comfortable.
- Military-grade rear Gov-Lock: Supreme handling and almost nonexistent slippage on loose terrain.
- 16 inches of ground clearance: Enough to tackle vertical climbs and technical rock sections that stop standard vehicles cold.
- Built for monsoon country: The M1009 can ford more than 20 inches of water, so seasonal washes are part of the fun, not a problem.
Where the Tour Goes
Your guide handles the transition from pavement into the Tonto National Forest, then steers you deep into remote territory near Four Peaks. The route threads narrow desert corridors and rugged ridges, with scenic pullouts at secluded vantage points - towering saguaros below, endless Arizona sky above.
The tour operates with express permission from the Bureau of Land Management and the Tonto National Forest, which is exactly why it can access country that's closed to ordinary traffic.
You Ride - We Drive
No off-road experience is needed, and that's the point. Your professional guide manages the advanced driving - the line choices, the rock sections, the climbs - while you focus on the terrain. Along the way, guides share what makes this desert tick, and daytime photos of your tour are included free via SmugMug, so you can leave the selfie stick at home.
Who This Tour Is For
- First-time off-roaders: No experience necessary - guides do the driving.
- Families: Guests 3 years and older are welcome; children 5 and under need a car seat.
- Groups: Bachelor and bachelorette parties, family reunions, and corporate teams all ride well in the Blazer.
One honest caveat: the tour is not recommended for pregnant guests or anyone with back or neck injuries. Wear closed-toe shoes and long pants (no flip flops or sandals), and bring sun protection.
Timing & Logistics
The full experience runs about 3.5-4 hours, including around 2 hours of trail time. Departures are at 8:00 AM and 1:00 PM year-round - arrive 15 minutes early. Hotel and resort pickup is included in most cases for select Phoenix and Scottsdale locations, and snacks and bottled water are on board. Note there are no restrooms at the trailhead, and a minimum of 4 guests per tour time applies (parties can be grouped together).
For the complete rundown, see the M1009 Blazer Tour FAQ.
Ready to Ride?
Check availability and full details on the M1009 Blazer Tactical Desert Tour page. Adventure begins where the pavement ends.