This feature is a reprint of a story that originally appeared in Arizona Wildlife Views.

Speed is not the only thrill of an OHV.  Sometimes simply letting up on the gas and looking around can surprise you.  Arizona contains some of the most interesting wildlife in the world and offers some of the best trails to use to watch them.

OHV users should always pack safety gear, water and often times a camera. One more item we would recommend your backpack not live without is a pair of binoculars. Not only will they be good for the scenic vistas, but they will help you focus in on the world of watchable wildlife.

When you’re on the trail out in the middle of nowhere, it’s the perfect time to let off the throttle, safely stop, and enjoy the world around you. Maybe over that next hill is a herd of mule deer or elk. Is that a tortoise sunning itself on the rock?  Did you see the bald eagle over head? Was it carrying dinner back to its nest? Let the motor noise quiet, then take some time and really look around. Antlers, talons, scales, eyes, ears or colors are some of the things that make Arizona wildlife unique and something that you owe it to yourself to examine closer. Break out of the tunnel vision and open exciting new horizons.

—Jim Harken, Arizona Game and Fish Department OHV public information officer