Durango ~ La Plata Canyon Scenic Waterfalls Jeep Tour

Introduction: A Refreshing Perspective on Durango’s Natural Beauty

If you’re planning a trip to Durango, Colorado, and love water features and mountain scenery, this La Plata Canyon Scenic Waterfalls Jeep Tour might catch your eye. It’s a short, family-friendly adventure that gives you a taste of the rugged beauty of the La Plata Mountains without requiring a full-day commitment or strenuous hikes.

What we appreciate about this tour is how it balances stunning scenery with accessibility. First, the chance to get up close to a 25-30 foot private waterfall is a real highlight, giving you a memorable photo opportunity. Second, the panoramic views from 10,000 feet above sea level let you take in the vast, rugged landscape of the canyon and mountains.

One thing to consider is that this is a mild tour—it doesn’t climb to the very top of Kennebec Pass, so if you’re looking for a serious off-road adventure or high-altitude trek, this might feel a bit tame. However, if you’re traveling with children or simply want a relaxing yet exciting way to explore the area, this tour fits the bill beautifully.

Perfect for small groups, families, or anyone wanting a personalized, well-guided experience, this tour offers an authentic taste of Durango’s natural riches without the crowds or complexity of larger tours.

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Key Points

• Short but sweet: 2.5-hour duration makes it a perfect half-day outing.
• Family-friendly: Mild off-road ride suitable for all ages, though car seats are not provided.
• Expert guides: Highly praised for knowledgeable, friendly guides—many reviews highlight the guides’ storytelling and local knowledge.
• Beautiful scenery: Waterfalls, mountain vistas, and historic mining sites provide ample photo opportunities.
• Good value: Combines scenic beauty with interactive stops, making it a worthwhile expense.
• Accessible yet adventurous: Includes some bumpy, dusty off-road sections but remains manageable for most travelers.

The Drive and the Scenic Highlights

The adventure begins with a 20-25 minute drive along the highway in an open-air Jeep, offering a taste of Durango’s mountain air and panoramic views. As the vehicle bumps along dusty, uneven roads, you’ll feel the thrill of a mild off-road adventure—nothing too intense, but enough to feel engaged.

Once off the main road, the terrain becomes more rugged, taking you into La Plata Canyon. Here, the real magic begins. The tour visits three distinctive waterfalls, each offering different perspectives and photo opportunities. The star of the show is a private 25-foot waterfall, accessible with some careful walking—an exclusive spot that many reviews call a highlight. You’ll appreciate the chance to get close, walk around, and snap pictures without the crowds.

Waterfalls are the main draw, and you’ll love the way guides point out the best angles for photos and share stories about the area’s mining history. Several reviews mention guides like Leroy, Tyler, and Ron, noting their knowledgeable and friendly manner. One traveler described Leroy as “very knowledgeable and fun to talk with,” which adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience.

Reaching 10,000 feet offers sweeping views over the canyon and mountain range—not just pretty scenery, but an opportunity to appreciate the scale and ruggedness of Colorado’s high country. The cool mountain air and panoramic vistas make this a refreshing escape from the more commercial attractions.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Personalized and Small Group Experience

With limited groups of up to 8 participants, the tour feels intimate and flexible. Several reviews mention how being the only ones on the tour was a bonus, allowing for personalized attention and more flexibility with stops. This small-group size supports a more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for families or travelers who prefer a less rushed experience.

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Knowledgeable Guides and Local Insights

Many reviews praise the guides for their storytelling, local knowledge, and friendliness. They don’t just drive; they help you understand the history of the area—especially the mining past that shaped Durango—and point out flora, fauna, and geological features. Tyler, Ron, and Hayden are frequently mentioned as exceptional guides who make the trip both educational and fun.

Authentic Nature and Photogenic Spots

The waterfalls and mountain terrain are truly beautiful and photogenic. The water cascading down rocks, framed by lush greenery, feels like real Colorado. The tour’s access to private land for the waterfall is a unique feature, giving you a sense of exclusivity—though, as some reviewers note, it’s not a full private land experience but a walk through designated areas.

Value for Money

At about two and a half hours, the tour offers a cost-effective way to experience Durango’s outdoors. Many who’ve taken the tour say it’s a good value, especially considering the guide’s expertise and the access to spots that are hard to reach on your own.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at the meeting point with free parking, located conveniently at 37.251583099365234, -107.87479400634766. After a brief introduction and waiver signing, you’ll board your open-air Jeep. The initial highway ride sets the scene with sweeping mountain views, giving your eyes a gentle warm-up before hitting the dirt trails.

Once off-road, the journey becomes more adventurous but remains family-friendly. The trail takes you into La Plata Canyon, a scenic corridor filled with towering cliffs, lush trees, and historic remnants. Along the way, your guide shares stories about gold and silver mining, adding a layer of local history to the experience.

The first waterfall often greets visitors early in the trip and is a perfect spot for photos. As you proceed, you’ll stop at the second waterfall, offering another perspective and opportunities to explore on foot. The highlight, the private waterfall, involves a walk that’s accessible and well worth the effort, especially for photography enthusiasts.

The final stop at 10,000 feet grants panoramic views that seem to stretch forever. Here, you’ll get a broad perspective on the canyon, the mountains, and the surrounding landscape—a perfect conclusion that leaves a lasting impression.

Throughout, guides are attentive and eager to answer questions, making sure everyone gets the most out of the limited time.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Dress in layers: Weather can change quickly—bringing a jacket and wearing comfortable shoes is advisable.
• Bring essentials: Sunscreen, water, and an extra layer are recommended.
• Prepare for dust and dirt: The open-air Jeep kicks up dust, so consider sunglasses and possibly a bandana.
• Mobility considerations: Climbing a ladder is required for boarding, so let the guide know if you have mobility concerns.
• Duration: The 2.5-hour format is perfect for a quick but meaningful outing—less than half a day, leaving you plenty of time for other activities.

Reviews in a Nutshell

Most travelers rate this tour an impressive 4.8 out of 5, with many noting the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery as major highlights. Several reviews mention how the guides, like Leroy and Tyler, made the experience memorable with their friendliness and insights.

People appreciate the value for money and the chance to see waterfalls and mountain views that are both scenic and accessible. Some, however, wish the tour included more off-road adventure or a longer reach to the top of Kennebec Pass, but overall, the consensus is that this tour hits a sweet spot for most travelers.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This La Plata Canyon Waterfalls Jeep Tour offers an ideal mix of accessible adventure, scenic beauty, and local storytelling. It’s best suited for those who want a relaxed, family-friendly trip that still delivers breathtaking views and photo-worthy moments.

If you love waterfalls or want to escape into Colorado’s high country without a strenuous hike, this tour provides a well-rounded experience. The small group size and highly-rated guides ensure a personalized touch, making it a memorable part of your Durango visit.

For travelers seeking value, authenticity, and easy access to nature’s beauty, this adventure ticks all the boxes. Just remember to dress appropriately, bring your camera, and prepare for some dusty, bumpy fun.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly and suitable for most ages, though car seats are not provided. The ride is mild, but some walking to waterfalls might be involved.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including the scenic drive, waterfalls stops, and mountain views.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, water, a jacket, and possibly sunglasses. The vehicle is open-air, so dress in layers for comfort and protection.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise guides like Leroy, Tyler, and Ron for their friendliness and local knowledge, making the trip both fun and informative.

Does the tour go all the way to the top of Kennebec Pass?
No, this is a mild tour that does not reach the summit of Kennebec Pass; it focuses on waterfalls and mountain vistas at lower elevations.

Is there a chance to take pictures?
Absolutely. The tour is known for ample photo opportunities, especially at the waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.

In essence, this Durango jeep tour offers a compelling glimpse into Colorado’s mountain splendor, with friendly guides, accessible adventure, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. It’s a memorable way to experience La Plata Canyon without the hassle of planning your own off-road route, making it a smart choice for many travelers eager to enjoy Durango’s natural charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby