Consider riding a Segway on an off-road desert trail as a hike in the unspoiled desert without the hassle of sweating.

But, time is expiring for a tour this spring on Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation.

Adventures Out West’s Segway tour will be packing up the personal transporters at the end of the month and heading to Colorado Springs for cooler summer temperatures. They plan to return in late October for another season beginning Nov. 1.

Segway rides during the winter months have shattered records this year, said “Cowboy Wayne” (Fredericks). More than 1,000 Segway trail rides have been scheduled since last November.

“Dirt is the safest tour there is,” said Fredericks, explaining that the lack of pedestrians, motor vehicle traffic and curbs makes the desert trail ideal for a novice to operate a Segway.

Fredericks and “El Nuevo Don Blanco” (Williams) escort the Segway riders.

Both guides are knowledgeable about the desert after leading jeep tours for multiple years. They do not relocate to Colorado Springs, the base office for Adventures Out West. The company also provides adventure tours in Sedona.

The Segway allows an individual to view the desert flora and fauna without car windows and doors obstructing views. After researching Segway venues elsewhere in the country, Williams claims the Fort adventure is the only off-trail desert experience of its kind.

No previous Segway experience is required to take the tour. Williams and Fredericks spend about a half hour instructing riders about the basics of operating a Segway before ever leaving the parking lot.

Participants must be at least 12 years old and weigh 100 pounds. The weight limit is capped at 250 pounds. Wearing a helmet is required.

The tour is not recommended for anyone unsteady on their feet. Riders stand for 45 minutes to an hour and a half on the Segway.

The cost is $85; discounts and social media coupons can reduce the price as low as $55.

On a recent Friday morning, seven visitors practiced their balance, starting and stopping before they headed out two miles into the desert. Up to 20 riders can be accommodated at one time.

“Lean forward on your toes to go,” yelled Fredericks.

The Segways remain on trails to lessen the impact on the environment, said Fredericks.

He warned the riders to beware of rattlesnakes that were coming out of hibernation and to stay clear from “the most dangerous cactus there is…the cholla.”

A Cedar Rapids, Idaho visitor, Carol Ekstrand, said she “learned a lot” during the ride and now can identify the Four Peaks.

She said Fredericks also told them about the Yavapai history on the land. They had the opportunity to stop for photos.

After guiding guests for the past three years, Williams still thinks “it’s such a cool job.” The retired grade school teacher has lived in town since 1990.

Tours can be booked at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. To reserve a time, call (800) 755-0935 or visit www.advoutwest.com.