La Plata Canyon Jeep Tour in Colorado

If you’re exploring the Durango area and looking for an adventure that combines natural beauty, a touch of history, and a bit of fun, the La Plata Canyon Jeep Tour offers just that. We haven’t personally taken this particular ride, but based on detailed descriptions, reviews, and what to expect, it sounds like a solid choice for travelers seeking a manageable yet authentic backcountry experience.

What draws us most are the shorter duration—a comfortable two and a half hours—making it accessible for families or those with tight schedules. Plus, the expert guides seem to be a highlight, enriching the journey with insightful stories about the area’s past and its wildlife. However, this tour stays below the 12,000-foot Kennebec Pass, topping out at 10,745 feet, which means you’ll enjoy the mountain scenery without the more strenuous climb. It’s perfect if you want a scenic, family-friendly day without sacrificing adventure or stunning vistas.

One point to consider is the limited season—mid-May through October—so this adventure is best planned during warmer months. Also, since the group size is capped at 12, it’s a fairly intimate experience, but that might mean limited availability during peak times. Still, if you’re after a genuine, approachable Colorado backcountry outing, this tour ticks many boxes.

This experience is ideal for families, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting a scenic, guided journey that balances natural sights with local storytelling.

Key Points

• Balanced adventure: A 2.5-hour tour offers a manageable yet immersive Colorado backcountry experience.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with historical insights and wildlife spotting tips.
• Natural scenery: Expect waterfalls, wildflower meadows, aspen groves, and mountain views up to 10,745 feet.
• Wildlife sightings: Look out for deer, elk, marmots, and various bird species.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for most travelers, including families looking for a safe outdoor adventure.
• Seasonal timing: Available mid-May through October, ideal for spring to fall visits.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

This tour, offered by Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours, is designed to maximize your Colorado backcountry experience without a marathon time commitment. Starting at the meeting point in Hesperus, you’ll hop into a custom open-air 4×4 Jeep—think of it as a small, rugged vehicle that’s perfect for winding mountain roads and narrow ravines.

The route takes you through La Plata Canyon, known for its striking waterfalls and lush meadows. Unlike its longer counterpart that reaches up to Kennebec Pass at 12,000 feet, this tour tops out at just over 10,700 feet. That means you’ll get superb mountain views and a good shot at wildlife without the altitude fatigue or strenuous climbs.

As you wind through the canyon, your guide will point out towering peaks and explain the area’s fascinating history, including tales of La Plata City, established in 1875. This settlement’s story adds a layer of depth that appeals to history buffs as well as outdoor lovers. Expect to see cascading waterfalls along the route—probably the most striking scenery—and depending on the time of year, vibrant wildflower meadows or colorful aspen groves.

Wildlife seems to be a consistent highlight, with many travelers remarking on sightings of deer, elk, marmots, and various bird species. The guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling skills, making the ride not just scenic but educational. Water is provided, but snacks are not included, so plan accordingly if you want a quick refreshment during the trip.

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it a perfect afternoon activity—long enough to satisfy your curiosity and see plenty, but not so long as to tire out the little ones or take over your entire day.

Why It’s Valuable for Travelers

What makes this Jeep tour stand out is its value. For $84, you’re getting a guided, scenic trip that combines comfortable transportation with the opportunity to see key natural sights and learn about Colorado’s history. The small group size—limited to 12 people—ensures a more personalized experience, allowing your guide to tailor commentary and point out wildlife or features you might miss on your own.

The seasonal timing means you’ll likely enjoy blooming wildflowers or colorful autumn foliage, depending on when you go. Plus, since transportation is in open-air Jeeps, you’ll have an unobstructed view—ideal for photography or simply soaking in the scenery. The ability to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance adds flexibility, especially for travelers with unpredictable schedules.

While it’s a shorter tour compared to the full La Plata Canyon experience that reaches higher elevations, it still offers a solid taste of Colorado’s mountainous landscape. Such a route is especially attractive if you’re traveling with kids, want a relaxed yet scenic adventure, or prefer to avoid the altitude and longer drive.

The Value of a Guided Experience

The guides seem to be the real stars of this tour. As one reviewer notes, the knowledgeable guides contribute significantly to the experience, sharing stories about the area’s history and local wildlife, making it educational as well as entertaining. That’s a crucial aspect because navigating backcountry roads alone can be tricky and less insightful.

Their storytelling enhances the scenic drive, turning what could be a simple ride into a memorable lesson in Colorado’s natural and historical treasures. Plus, with their tips on wildlife spotting and the best photo opportunities, you’re more likely to come away with great memories—and great pictures.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meet at 4631 Co Rd 124, Hesperus, CO, which is a short drive from Durango proper.
• Tour duration: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, perfect for fitting into an afternoon or early evening.
• Price: $84 per person, which is reasonable considering the guided nature and scenery.
• Group size: Max 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Includes: Guided tour, transportation in open-air Jeeps, and water.
• Not included: Snacks, so bring your own if you like.
• Season: Runs from mid-May through October, so plan accordingly depending on Colorado’s seasonal weather.
• Departure times: Usually around 1:15 PM, so check ahead for availability.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This Jeep tour is perfect for families with children, as it offers a safe, accessible way to explore Colorado’s mountains without strenuous hikes or high elevations. It’s also well-suited for adventure travelers who want a quick, scenic trip without committing to a full-day outing. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see waterfalls, wildflowers, and wildlife—plus learn about the area’s history from a knowledgeable guide.

If you’re in Durango and looking for a relaxed but engaging activity that combines scenic beauty with storytelling, this tour hits the mark. It’s less about extreme adventure and more about enjoying Colorado’s mountain landscapes comfortably—ideal for those who want a memorable experience without the hassle of planning complex hikes or drives.

Final Thoughts

In essence, the La Plata Canyon Jeep Tour is a well-balanced, value-packed outing that offers a taste of Colorado’s stunning scenery and historical charm. It’s especially good for travelers who want an easy, guided introduction to the mountains, with the added bonus of expert storytelling that makes each stop more meaningful.

The small-group setting guarantees personal attention and a more intimate experience, while the open-air Jeeps provide perfect views and photo opportunities. Though it’s not a full-day adventure, what you get in 2.5 hours is enough to leave you feeling that you’ve truly experienced a slice of Colorado’s rugged wilderness.

If you’re after a family-friendly, scenic, and educational trip that won’t overtax your schedule, this Jeep tour is a smart choice. It offers genuine value, memorable sights, and the kind of authentic Colorado experience that keeps travelers coming back for more.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed to be family-friendly, with a manageable duration and safe open-air Jeep rides suitable for most ages.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 12 travelers, which helps ensure a more personal experience and attentive guides.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is provided in custom open-air 4×4 Jeeps, making for a fun and scenic ride through La Plata Canyon.

What should I bring?
Bring water, and consider bringing snacks since they are not included. Dress comfortably for the weather, and consider layers since mountain temperatures can vary.

When is the best time to take this tour?
Mid-May through October is ideal, as wildflowers bloom in spring and fall foliage colors can also be striking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there any altitude concern?
The tour tops out at 10,745 feet, but this is lower than other Colorado high-altitude routes, making it accessible for most visitors.

Exploring Colorado’s mountains doesn’t have to mean long hikes or high-altitude climbs. With this Jeep tour, you get a comfortable, scenic, and engaging way to see some of the best sights La Plata Canyon has to offer. Whether you’re traveling with family or just seeking a relaxed adventure, it promises a memorable slice of Colorado wilderness.