2-Hour Side by Side Adventure

Our review focuses on a popular outdoor activity that promises a taste of Colorado’s rugged beauty — a 2-hour Side by Side ATV tour offered by the Glenwood Adventure Company. This experience is tailored for those who want a quick yet rich encounter with the stunning landscapes surrounding Glenwood Springs. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a first-timer, this tour seems to strike a fine balance between adventure and comfort.

What we love most about this tour is its small-group setting, allowing for a more personalized experience, and the spectacular views of Glenwood Canyon and the Rocky Mountains that you’ll get to enjoy along the way. The fact that it includes a pre-tour tutorial makes it accessible even to newcomers, so beginners can feel confident behind the wheel. A potential consideration is the cost of $330 per group, which might seem steep for a two-hour adventure, but the value lies in the guided experience, scenic vistas, and the chance to learn a new skill.

This tour suits travelers who want a quick, memorable outdoor escapade without committing a full day. It’s perfect for families, couples, or friends looking to add some excitement to their Colorado trip while enjoying some of the best vistas the region has to offer.

Key Points

• Intimate, small-group experience enhances safety and personalization
• Guided tour ensures beginner-friendly riding and local insights
• Spectacular mountain, river, and flora views enrich the adventure
• The tour is booked on average 20 days in advance, so plan ahead
• Helmets and goggles are included, but gratuity isn’t
• The experience is accessible to most travelers with most participants able to join

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Hour Side by Side Adventure

The Glenwood Adventure Company has crafted a tour that balances thrills with scenic beauty, all wrapped into just two hours. This isn’t a lengthy, exhausting expedition but rather a carefully curated experience that offers enough time to enjoy the landscape without feeling rushed. The meeting point at Bair Ranch Rest Area in Gypsum, Colorado, is conveniently located and marks the start of an exploration through 6,000 acres of private land.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Once you arrive, you’ll begin with a brief ATV tutorial. This is especially reassuring for first-timers, as the guides take the time to explain how to handle the vehicle confidently. Many reviews highlight how friendly and attentive the staff are — they genuinely seem committed to making sure everyone feels comfortable. After the safety briefing, you’ll set off, led by a knowledgeable guide who keeps the group at a relaxed and enjoyable pace.

The real highlight — and the part most travelers rave about — is the views. You’ll traverse terrain that provides a unique perspective of Glenwood Canyon, famous for its rugged cliffs and winding river. Along the way, you’ll pause for photo opportunities — many reviews mention stopping for pictures of the mountains, flora, and fauna. One traveler noted, “The views he brought us were beautiful,” underscoring how the tour guides enhance the experience with their local knowledge.

Guides and Small Group Dynamics

The personal touch of this tour is often praised. With a maximum of 12 travelers, it feels more like a riding with friends than a big tour. Tour guides are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, often sharing interesting tidbits about the land and history of the area. One reviewer summed it up: “Our tour guide was phenomenal!!! This was by far the best thing we did in Colorado!”

The Equipment and Safety

Helmets and goggles are included in the price, which is vital for safety and comfort. The gear is generally described as well-maintained and appropriate for outdoor mountain riding. Since the tour is designed for most travelers and even first-timers, safety is clearly a priority. Still, gratuity for guides is not included, so if you’re pleased with their service, a tip is appreciated.

Booking, Cost, and Value

At $330 per group, this activity offers a good value for the experience it provides — especially considering the small-group setting, guided narration, and scenic views. Most bookings are made about 20 days in advance, indicating its popularity. While the price might seem high compared to other outdoor activities, the personalized service and stunning scenery justify the cost for many travelers.

Who Will Love This?

This tour appeals most to those looking for a short but memorable outdoor experience, whether they’re seasoned riders or newcomers. It’s ideal for families with older kids, couples seeking a romantic yet adventurous outing, or friends wanting a shared thrill. If you’re after a relaxing pace with plenty of photo stops and expert guidance, this is a solid choice.

Authentic Reviews and Real Experiences

Travelers repeatedly praise the friendly, knowledgeable staff and the amazing views. One said, “Staff was knowledgeable and friendly, trail guide was friendly and attentive,” highlighting the welcoming atmosphere. Another shared, “The views he brought us were beautiful, would definitely go again,” emphasizing the scenic reward.

For those new to ATVs, many reviews confirm that it’s accessible and fun — “Never been on an ATV before. My wife and kids all had a blast!!!” — and they appreciate the well-organized nature of the tour, making it suitable for all skill levels.

Noteworthy Highlights from Reviews:

• “Very personal and lots of history” (John_C)
• “Beautiful ranch. Erin, our guide, is personal, welcoming, and thoughtful” (Lulu_S)
• “Great trip. The views in all directions were incredible” (Daniel_W)
• “This was very exciting for us” (Dijuana_L)

Slight Drawbacks

A few reviews mention that the group can include a mix of kids and adults, which might slow down the pace if some younger or more cautious participants are in the group. Also, the cost might be a factor for budget-conscious travelers, though many believe the experience justifies the price.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying Your Ride

• Reserve early — most bookings are made about 20 days in advance, and spots fill up quickly.
• The meeting point at Bair Ranch Rest Area is easy to find, but check directions beforehand.
• Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing; the terrain can be rugged.
• Remember that gratuity is not included — consider tipping guides if you feel they’ve gone above and beyond.
• The tour requires good weather; cancellations due to weather are fully refundable or reschedulable.

The Sum Up

This 2-hour Side by Side ATV tour from Glenwood Springs offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and expert guidance. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a taste of Colorado’s rugged outdoors without a full-day commitment. The small-group format, scenic stops, and knowledgeable guides mean you’ll come away with more than just a thrill — you’ll have memories of breathtaking vistas and a newfound confidence on an ATV.

This tour delivers excellent value for those eager to experience Colorado’s natural beauty in an active, engaging way. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, it’s a chance to see Glenwood Canyon from a fresh perspective — with a little adrenaline mixed in.

If you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and guided outdoor adventure, this tour hits the mark. It’s an authentic way to enjoy the Colorado landscape, with guides who love sharing their knowledge and a setting that truly captures the rugged charm of the Rockies.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes a short ATV tutorial, and guides are attentive to ensure everyone feels comfortable. It’s designed to be accessible whether you’re new to riding or experienced.

What’s included in the price?
Helmets and goggles are provided, which are essential for safety and comfort during the ride.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Full refunds are available if you cancel more than a day before the tour.

How many people are in a group?
The tour allows up to 12 travelers, creating an intimate experience that feels more personalized.

Where do we meet?
The starting point is the Bair Ranch Rest Area in Gypsum, Colorado.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing suitable for outdoor mountain terrain. Closed-toe shoes are recommended.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including the tutorial and riding time.

Is gratuity included?
No, tips are not included in the price but are appreciated for excellent service.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This guided ATV adventure combines the thrill of off-road riding with the chance to see some of Colorado’s most stunning vistas. Thoughtfully designed, well-reviewed, and efficient, it promises a memorable slice of outdoor fun perfect for a short Colorado escape.