Durango , United States

La Plata Mountains - Half Day Tour

Active

(12 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This 4-hour guided 4x4 tour of La Plata Canyon just west of Durango covers native and mining history, geology, flora and fauna on the way to stunning views at 12,000 feet above sea level. Led by a local expert, this adventure is fun for riders of all ages and skill levels.

Available options

La Plata Mountains - Half Day Tour

What's included

Snacks and water

Trained 4x4 road driver

Memories with friends and family on a unique adventure

Professional interpretive and mountain tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Enjoy the spectacular San Juan National Forest throughout the entire guided tour in the La Plata Mountains

Stop 2

Connect with the famous Colorado Trail at the top of Kennebec Pass

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

9 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet your guide and driver in the parking lot right where the CR 124 turns from asphalt to dirt. Parking is free during the tour

About Durango

Durango is a charming city in southwestern Colorado known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. Nestled in the Animas Valley and surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, it offers a unique blend of Wild West heritage and modern amenities.

Top Attractions

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

A historic steam train ride through the stunning San Juan Mountains, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the past.

Historical/Adventure 5-6 hours (round trip) Moderate to Expensive ($50-$150 depending on class)

Mesa Verde National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings and archaeological sites.

Historical/Cultural Full day Moderate ($25 per vehicle entry fee, additional fees for guided tours)

Purgatory Resort

A year-round resort offering skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Adventure/Entertainment Half day to full day Moderate to Expensive (varies by activity and season)

Animas Museum

A museum showcasing the history and culture of the Animas Valley and Durango region.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Budget ($5 admission)

Bear Creek Falls

A beautiful waterfall and hiking trail located in the San Juan National Forest.

Nature/Adventure 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Green Chile Stew

A hearty stew made with pork, green chiles, potatoes, and spices, often served with tortillas.

Dinner Contains pork, can be made vegetarian

Navajo Tacos

Fried bread topped with ground beef, beans, cheese, lettuce, and other toppings.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Breakfast Burrito

A large flour tortilla filled with eggs, cheese, potatoes, and sometimes meat or green chiles.

Breakfast Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Pecan Pie

A sweet pie made with pecans, sugar, and butter, often served with ice cream or whipped cream.

Dessert Contains nuts, can be made gluten-free

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Skiing and snowboarding Rafting ATV tours Spa and wellness Hot springs Scenic train rides

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, clear skies, and perfect conditions for hiking, biking, and exploring the great outdoors. It's also festival season with events like the Durango Blues Festival.

15-30°C (59-86°F) 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (MT), UTC-7 (Standard Time), UTC-6 (Daylight Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Durango is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use ATMs located inside banks or reputable businesses
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited services or assistance

Getting there

By air

Durango-La Plata County Airport • 15 miles (24 km) from city center

By train

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

By bus

Durango Transit Center

Getting around

Public transport

The city operates a public bus system with several routes covering key areas. Buses are reliable and affordable but may have limited schedules outside peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Durango North Durango South Durango East Durango

Day trips

Silverton

30 miles (48 km) • Half day to full day

A historic mining town with a charming downtown, scenic views, and a rich history. Accessible by the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad or by car.

Mancos

35 miles (56 km) • Half day to full day

A charming small town with a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and a variety of shops and restaurants. Known for its proximity to Mesa Verde National Park.

Ouray

60 miles (97 km) • Full day

A picturesque mountain town known as the 'Switzerland of America' for its stunning scenery and hot springs. Accessible by car via the scenic Million Dollar Highway.