




Available languages
2 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Experience majestic mountain shadows and a world-famous Arizona sunset (weather dependent) at our private mountaintop sanctuary within Tonto National Forest.
Tours begin with a slow-crawl through Rackensack Canyon and expert guide narration about Unique Sonoran Desert Plants & Ancient Hohokam Indians who inhabited canyon up to 1450 AD.
A short time later the “Exhilarating Mountainside Ride” begins as you climb 900 vertical feet over 1.5 miles with absolutely breathtaking views at 4500 foot elevation. The short ride to the top can be a bit dusty & bouncy but is also exciting fun with entertaining narration and educational photo stops along trail.
Upon arrival at Summit Studio/Gift Shop you will enjoy complimentary refreshments & relax on patio with jaw dropping vistas or try your hand at Steer Head Roping & Corn Hole.
At sunset, experience panoramic unobstructed views of sky which typically changes to shades of pink, red, orange, and purple, with stunning Desert Mountain backdrop.
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Travelers with excessive fear of heights may experience anxiety in our mountainous terrain.
Town of Carefree Sundial
Designated Departure location for our tours is in Carefree, Arizona Town Center on the East side of their World Famous Sundial. Come early and stay late to enjoy the small town hospitality of this beautiful community with excellent restaurants and unique shops in abundance. Read more about Historic 1880's Gold Mine Jeep Adventure near Scottsdale-Phoenix - https://www.viator.com/tours/Scottsdale/Historic-1880s-Gold-Mine-Jeep-Adventure-minutes-from-Scottsdale/d38685-432942P1?mcid=56757
Tonto National Forest
Our private Road Easement in Tonto National Forest is connected to North Scottsdale/Carefree, Arizona. The trailhead is located 15 minutes northeast of our pickup location from the Sundial in Carefree.
Bottled water
Complementary Snacks at Mountaintop Studio
Gift Shop
Studio Activities: Steer Head Roping, Cornhole & Horseshoes
Restroom Facilities
Tour Guide gratuity
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
15 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
127gildam,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had an amazing time on this sunset excursion. Rebel was very informative and witty! Once we got to the top of the mountain, we were greeted by the owners, Charles and Ginger, who welcomed us into their beautiful house with an even better view! This excursion was worth the money! I would do it again :)




29bobbied,Apr 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
I can’t say enough amazing things about our experience with Mountside Tour—it truly exceeded every expectation. First, Paul, our tour guide, was outstanding. He was incredibly informative, patient, and genuinely attentive to everyone in our group. You could tell he wasn’t just reciting facts... he really cared about making sure we understood and experienced the area in a meaningful way. And then there’s Ginger and Charles- just wow! Two of the most humble, kind, and welcoming people you will ever meet. The fact that they open up their home to guests says everything about who they are. This isn’t just a business for them, but it’s clearly a passion, and you feel that in every detail of the experience. What I appreciated most is that this tour didn’t feel “touristy.” It felt authentic. We were able to truly connect with the area, its story, and its beauty in a way that you just don’t get with larger, commercial tours. Communication leading up to the tour and throughout was clear, smooth, and stress-free. Everything was well organized and thoughtfully planned. If you’re looking for something personal, meaningful, and genuinely special, this is it! I would 100% recommend Mountside Tour and would absolutely do it again!



Seaside05503692864,Mar 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
The review is mixed for the Rackensack Canyon Mountain Shadows Sunset Jeep Tour. Our driver, Paul, was very courteous and did a good job explaining the local wildlife and fauna, as well as the history of Charles and Ginger’s house we were going to visit. It could have been better, though, as the front window of the jeep, where the additional seats were added on the back, was so dirty it was hard to see through. Charles and Ginger were very nice and had very interesting backgrounds. Hearing the stories of how they bought the land, built the steep treacherous road, and built the house was the highlight of the trip. Coffee and hot chocolate, along with some snacks, were available at Charles and Ginger’s house. The views from their house were impressive, but not what we were expecting for the sunset. Our expectation was that from the top of the mountain, we would be looking down over the valley towards the sunset. The sunset actually sets over another nearby peak. Although still good, it is not the long-range sunset view we were expecting, with a look down over the horizon far into the distance. It was somewhat anticlimactic. Overall, we did have a good time, but it was just a jeep ride up a steep slope to a house with a nice view and some interesting owners. I did not feel it was worth the $145 per-person price tag, but it was still fun to do.
ngpelat0440b,Jan 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Had the pleasure of being invited to get onboard a scenic tour at sunset with Rackensack. Rebel was the guide and impressed me with her Sonoran Desert/Arizona history knowledge. She entertained us with some great southern style hospitality on the off-road journey. Top notch outdoor activity, minutes from Scottsdale. Highly recommended!



Aldreka C,Dec 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had an amazing experience!!! Omg absolutely breathtaking view. The tour guide was so informative and knowledgeable about the area. It was truly a passion for her. Then we got to Ginger and Charlie house it was so cozy!!!! The apple cider was so warm and cookies and was fresh. We played games and just relaxed and enjoyed the views. It felt so unreal. Even when we called to book it was pleasant experience. We will definitely be back.

Z6972BYcynthiad,Oct 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Took our granddaughters and daughter from Illinois on this awesome Jeep adventure. It was perfect. Our driver Paul was exceptionally nice and knowledgeable…also, a great driver. We took a private road to the top of Shadow mountain, where we were greeted by Charles and Ginger, owners of the property and tour. What a beautiful surprise it was, when we walked into their studio…so warm and inviting…Ginger had snacks and homemade cookies that we all loved. The fire pit was blazing and we could have stayed all night. The views were spectacular…..we felt welcomed, and had made new friends. We still have a couple more families from Illinois and can’t wait to take them. You won’t be disappointed!



jennicholson11,Mar 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
The guide and hosts made this trip special! It felt personalized as if you were extended family being invited into their home. Bring layers for the wind chill!

rachelkjg,Mar 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
The jeep ride was so fun and our driver Paul gave us great information. The Jeep is comfortable and modern. The views were amazing! Charles and Ginger were so welcoming and their property was beautiful! We loved the sunset views, snacks and the hummingbirds! It was a great evening.



melissahS6787JI,Mar 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Rackensack Canyon Tours is excellent to work with! The tour guide did an excellent job but Charles and Ginger open their home to the tour for peace, relaxation, and family fun after climbing the mountain at sunset. Their story of how they established this business and their home is worth the tour alone. We would go back every time we visit!!!
Dan S,Mar 25, 2025
- Review from Viator
This was a fun experience for the family. We got to ride in a cool Jeep off road up a mountain. The driver and tour guide Paul was nice. We made a few stops along the way for photos. Then the top of the mountain stop was incredible. Charles and Ginger open up their home and you get to really enjoy a beautiful sunset view from the mountains. You can just relax and enjoy the view or you can play some games and learn a lot of fun things. Charles and Ginger were the nicest people. It was also my so ‘s birthday the same day, Ginger made it a really special day for my son. She came out with a birthday cake and a gift. Talking to them and learning about how they built their home was just amazing. When we return to Arizona I think we will doing their gold mine tour. I’ve been on many tours and this one is unique and fun. Worth doing for sure when you’re in Arizona.
Operated by Rackensack Canyon Tours