The La Plata Canyon Jeep Tour from Durango promises an exhilarating journey through the rugged, glacier-carved landscape of southwestern Colorado. Travelers can expect to reach dizzying heights of 12,000 feet at Kennebec Pass, where they’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of alpine meadows, avalanche gullies, and vibrant wildflowers. Along the way, the tour provides a glimpse into the region’s rich mining history, offering visitors a chance to uncover the remnants of the 19th-century encampment, La Plata City. Whether you opt for a morning or afternoon departure, this scenic adventure promises an immersive and hassle-free experience that will leave you eager to explore more of this captivating corner of the Rockies.
Key Points
- A half-day jeep tour that explores the glacier-carved La Plata Canyon, reaching an elevation of 12,000 feet at Kennebec Pass.
- Provides panoramic views of high-alpine meadows, avalanche gullies, and Colorado wildflowers, with opportunities to see remnants of the 19th-century mining town La Plata City.
- Knowledgeable guides share insights into the canyon’s geology and mining history, offering an immersive experience with sights, sounds, and smells of the mountain environment.
- Travelers can enjoy morning or afternoon departures from Durango, with a tour duration of approximately 4 hours and a maximum group size of 12.
- Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the tour may be canceled if the minimum number of travelers is not met.
Tour Overview
The La Plata Canyon Jeep Tour from Durango typically begins with a half-day excursion to explore the glacier-carved canyon in an open-top Jeep.
Travelers can reach an elevation of 12,000 feet at Kennebec Pass, where they’ll be treated to majestic views of the surrounding high-alpine meadows, avalanche gullies, and Colorado wildflowers.
Along the way, guests may catch a glimpse of the remnants of an abandoned 19th-century mining encampment known as La Plata City.
With morning and afternoon departures available, this tour offers an immersive and scenic adventure through the stunning natural landscapes of Colorado’s La Plata Canyon.
Jeep Exploration
While aboard the open-top Jeep, travelers can explore the rugged and glacier-carved terrain of La Plata Canyon in all its grandeur.
Soaring to an elevation of 12,000 feet at Kennebec Pass, the Jeep tour offers unparalleled vistas of the surrounding high-alpine meadows, avalanche gullies, and vibrant Colorado wildflowers.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guide shares insights into the canyon’s geological history and the remnants of the 19th-century mining encampment, La Plata City.
The Jeep’s open-air design allows for an immersive experience, with the sights, sounds, and smells of the mountain environment surrounding the travelers.
This thrilling off-road adventure provides a unique opportunity to explore the rugged beauty of the La Plata Canyon in style.
Reaching Kennebec Pass
As the Jeep climbs higher, travelers reach the breathtaking Kennebec Pass at an elevation of 12,000 feet, offering them majestic panoramic views of the surrounding high-alpine landscape. From this vantage point, they can gaze upon the rugged peaks, lush meadows, and remnants of the abandoned 19th-century mining encampment, La Plata City. The sheer scale and beauty of the natural environment are truly awe-inspiring.
| Viewpoint | Description | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Glaciated Peaks | Towering, snow-capped mountains carved by ancient glaciers | Sense of geological wonder |
| Wildflower Meadows | Vibrant carpets of Colorado’s native flora | Appreciation for alpine ecology |
| Historic Ruins | Remnants of La Plata City, a bygone mining settlement | Connection to the region’s past |
Discovering High-Alpine Meadows
Traversing higher into the canyon, the Jeep passengers encounter an array of vibrant high-alpine meadows blanketed in Colorado’s native wildflowers.
These lush, verdant expanses provide a striking contrast to the rugged, snow-capped peaks surrounding them, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the region’s diverse alpine ecology.
Wildflowers in hues of purple, yellow, and white dot the landscape, thriving in the cool, crisp mountain air.
Hikers and photographers alike pause to admire the breathtaking vistas, capturing images of grazing elk and marmots scurrying among the fragrant blooms.
These high-alpine meadows showcase the remarkable beauty and ecological richness found within the La Plata Canyon, a true natural wonder.
Remnants of La Plata City
Amidst the rugged terrain of the La Plata Canyon, the tour Jeep encounters the remnants of an abandoned 19th-century mining encampment, known as La Plata City. Once a bustling hub of activity during the region’s mining heyday, the dilapidated structures and equipment now stand as silent testaments to the hardy pioneers who sought their fortunes in this remote, untamed landscape.
| Remnant | Description | State of Preservation |
|---|---|---|
| Cabins | Wooden structures that housed miners and their families | Partially collapsed, with weathered and rotting wood |
| Mining Shafts | Vertical openings dug into the earth to access valuable ores | Mostly filled in, with some entrances still visible |
| Ore Carts | Wooden and metal carts used to transport extracted minerals | Rusting and overgrown with vegetation |
| Blacksmith Shop | Building where tools and equipment were repaired and maintained | Foundation and partial walls remain, but roof has collapsed |
| General Store | Commercial hotel that supplied goods to the mining community | Only a few crumbling walls and remnants of the foundation left |
Tour Logistics
The La Plata Canyon Jeep Tour offers morning and afternoon departures from an office in Durango, with the tour duration lasting approximately 4 hours.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers per group and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed. This tour is recommended for travelers without back problems or serious medical conditions.
While a knowledgeable guide is included, gratuities are not. Lunch isn’t provided, but guests are welcome to bring their own snacks.
Visitors can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, but changes within 24 hours of the start time aren’t accepted. The tour may also be canceled if the minimum number of travelers isn’t met.
Inclusions and Exclusions
A knowledgeable guide is included on the La Plata Canyon Jeep Tour, but gratuities are not.
Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks, as lunch isn’t provided as part of the tour.
The guided tour allows travelers to fully enjoy the stunning natural scenery without having to worry about navigation or logistics.
While the guide’s expertise is covered in the tour cost, any tips for exceptional service are at the discretion of your.
This flexibility ensures the tour meets the needs and preferences of each group.
Whether it’s a quick snack or a full picnic lunch, guests can customize their experience to make the most of their time in the beautiful La Plata Canyon.
Cancellation Policy
Guests can cancel their La Plata Canyon Jeep Tour up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. However, changes made less than 24 hours before the start time aren’t accepted.
Plus, the tour may be canceled if the minimum number of travelers isn’t met.
The cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility for guests while also ensuring the tour can operate efficiently. Key points of the policy include:
- 24-hour advance notice required for full refund
- No changes accepted within 24 hours of start time
- Tour may be canceled if minimum travelers not met
- Refunds provided in the event of tour cancellation
Adhering to these guidelines ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended for the tour. Guests should dress in layers to adapt to changes in temperature and weather conditions during the excursion.
Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?
Guests are welcome to bring their own camera equipment on the tour. The open-top Jeeps provide excellent opportunities to capture the stunning scenery of the high-alpine environment. Just be mindful of the weather conditions during the tour.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
There’s typically no minimum age requirement for participants, though the tour may not be suitable for very young children. Guests should consult with the tour operator about any age restrictions or recommendations for their specific tour.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Tour Site?
The tour site doesn’t offer an opportunity to purchase souvenirs. Guests can bring their own snacks, but there are no gift shops or vendors at the high-altitude location. Participants should plan accordingly for their tour experience.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?
There are no restroom facilities available during the tour. Guests are advised to use the restrooms before the tour starts, as it covers remote areas with no public facilities. It’s important to plan accordingly for the duration of the tour.
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Recap
The La Plata Canyon Jeep Tour from Durango offers an unforgettable adventure through the rugged, glacier-carved terrain of the area.
Travelers can reach dizzying heights, taking in majestic views of high-alpine meadows and the remnants of the 19th-century mining town.
With morning and afternoon departures, this scenic tour provides a hassle-free and immersive experience, connecting visitors to the rich history and natural beauty of the region.
