Durango Half Day Jeep Tour - La Plata Canyon
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Our Durango Jeep tour travels up La Plata Canyon, a rugged ravine nestled in an alpine paradise.
Here in this glacially sculpted landscape, you’ll find waterfalls cascading into the canyon, hallways of glimmering aspens, countless wildflowers, wildlife scurrying between the meadows, and panoramic views of Colorado's most beautiful Rocky Mountains. Like we said, paradise!
Our fun-loving and experienced guides are Durango locals, who know this canyon's rich history and ecology like nobody else. While other outfitters tend to let the scenery do all the work for them, our guides give you a wealth of insight about what makes this area incredibly special. They're also talented drivers who will get you up this rutted trail without a hitch.
Most people don't want to take their own vehicles up this old mining route, and our open-air Jeeps are customized for a smoother ride— although it will still be bumpy about half way through. It's all a part of the fun!
Available options
Fall Afternoon Tour
Duration: 4 hours<br/>12:30PM - 4:45PM
Morning Tour
Duration: 4 hours<br/>8:15 AM - 12:30 PM
Afternoon Tour
Duration: 4 hours<br/>1:15 PM - 5:30 PM
What's included
Scavenger Hunt for Kids
Water
Granola Bars
Blankets
Ponchos
Knowledgeable guides
Customized, Open-Air Jeep
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet us at our Durango Office in the morning or afternoon for a 4-hour excursion up the ruggedly beautiful wilderness of La Plata Canyon, just 20 minutes from town.
The trail starts off smooth and slowly transitions into a rubbled road about half up the canyon. Get ready to rock around and get to know the person next to you!
As we make our way up the mountain, we'll stop to check out some waterfalls, meadows, and old remnants from Colorado's wild mining era.
On the way up, keep your eyes peeled for deer, marmot, fox, birds of prey— and if you’re lucky, a moose or bear! Once we've reached the top of the canyon, we'll take some time to enjoy a spectacular view of the San Juan Mountains, Colorado's most beloved Rockies!
From late June to early August, this is the perfect off-roading trail for wildflowers. In late September to early October, the large aspen groves make for amazing fall colors
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
13 reviews
5★
10
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
261 reviews
5★
256
4★
4
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
You must bring your own car seats for children who require them. CO Car Seat Law states that children up to 8 years old must be in an appropriate car seat.
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Please arrive 10 minutes early to check in for 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.
Festivals
Durango Blues Festival • Mid-September
Durango Cowboy Gathering • October
Snowdown Festival • February
Pro tips
- Visit the Animas Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region
- Take a scenic train ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
- Explore the stunning natural beauty of Mesa Verde National Park
- Ski or snowboard at Purgatory Resort during the winter months
- Hike to Bear Creek Falls for a beautiful and scenic adventure
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
