La Plata Canyon Jeep Tour, Waterfall's & Views ~ Half Day

Durango , United States

La Plata Canyon Jeep Tour, Waterfall's & Views ~ Half Day

Active

(42 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

Book with the best and highest consumer-rated company in Durango, Co.Come and experience the La Plata Canyon tour also known as “Kennebec Pass”. This tour will take you up to 12,000 feet at or near the tree line. We get to see the amazing geology of how this canyon was carved out by ancient glaciers leaving the beautiful canyon along the way. We will get the chance to see wildlife such as deer, bears, marmots, birds, elk, and maybe even the elusive mountain lion. All of which have been spotted on our tours. La Plata Canyon is 20 minutes west of Durango, Colorado, and has a history of old Ghost Towns and plenty of old mines to chat about along the way. An absolute bucket list item!

What to expect:
about a 20-minute drive on the highway to the entrance to the canyon
dirt and dust~ this is an open-air vehicle
bumpy roads ~ This is a Jeep tour
An experienced guide who knows the area and roads very well
We will have extra blankets and jackets for you just in case you need some.

Available options

1:30 pm Departure

None<br/>4x4 Vehicle <br/>1:30pm Departure: Departs at 1:30 pm.

What's included

Driver/guide

Sightseeing tour

Live commentary on board

Detailed itinerary

When you book with Durango Rivertrippers, you gain exclusive access to private areas that no other company can reach. We’ll take you to our secluded 25-foot waterfall, located on a historic mining claim from the early 1900s. Our Jeep trail tours are unmatched in the area! Keep in mind this is a "Jeep Tour", it is bumpy, bouncy and you can get dirty.
Climb aboard our “open-air” vehicle, or a Jeep Wrangler if conditions require, and set off into the breathtaking 'crown jewel' of the San Juan Mountains. Expect a thrilling ride as we navigate rugged terrain to showcase the most stunning landscapes Durango has to offer.
Our 4-hour Jeep tours are designed to maximize your adventure while leaving you plenty of time to explore more of our many other activities. Please note that the terrain can be bumpy, adding to the excitement of the journey. If you prefer a smoother experience, we recommend checking out our alternative tours.

What's not included

Gratuities

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

31 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Infants and young children requiring a car seat per Colorado Sate law. We do not provide car seats.

Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in

Dress in layers, temperature and weather can change quickly!

Wear sturdy footwear

Meeting point

360 South Camino Del Rio Suite #200,
Durango, Co 81301. Park in the upper lot OR in front of Suite #200. Since you booked 3rd party, you should call Durango Rivertrippers and confirm your details.

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Dress in layers. The temperature can change drastically as we head up the mountain.
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
• Not recommended for participants with severe back problems
• Arrive 10 minutes early for check-in

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.