4 hours
E-voucher
English
Overview
Make your way to the tour office for morning or afternoon departure, then board an open-top Jeep for the trip to La Plata Canyon, which has the distinctive, U-shaped landscape left by ancient glaciers. With peaks on either side of the scenic canyon, enjoy great views throughout the drive, while riding higher and higher into the mountains.
Watch for wildlife as you follow rugged Jeep trails past several small waterfalls and mountain rivers. Climb to alpine meadows to find bright wildflowers, then discover La Plata City, an abandoned mining town that was first established in the frontier days of 1875, with visible remnants of old mining claims.
Reach Kennebec Pass at 12,000 feet (3,658 mt.) above sea level, with majestic views to Cortez and Telluride, and a bird’s-eye perspective on spruce tree forests, peaks, and river valleys. Following your time at the pass, trace the Jeep roads back out of La Plata Canyon and return to the original departure point, where this tour concludes.
Operated by
Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours
Ratings & Reviews
Average Rating
4.97
/ 5
268 traveller ratings
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Absolutely wonderful jeep tour
Experience812363, Sept 2025
Our afternoon tour was breathtaking. We saw at least a dozen mule deer, 3 grouse birds, 3 marmots, many chipmunks, and woodpeckers. It rained lightly during our tour which brought out a double rainbow. The Aspen trees and fire weed plants were just starting to turn colors. Our guide, Miles, was excellent. He knew about the history of the native people in this area. He explained the early mining history. He answered any question we had about any plant or tree we saw including what is edible or poisonous. He went above and beyond to make our jeep tour our highlight of our vacation.
Beautiful views
Guide06222516250, Sept 2025
Our tour was of Canyon La Plata in Durango Co. our tour guide was an excellent driver, friendly and quite knowledgeable. Would have liked more stops for views but we’re accommodated when requested. It would be helpful if there were hand straps on the jeep bars to grab onto as the ride can be quite bumpy and jiggle you about in your seat. Overall a pleasurable trip.
Beautiful Mt Views
Ekat_003, Sept 2025
This trip was so much fun! Art was fantastic! We saw some amazing views and learned a lot! If you want to jeep, I’d look into their Jeep and train package. We didn’t realize this was offered until later.
Response from Host, Sept 2025
Thank you for your kind words and for choosing Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours. It's great to hear you loved the mountain views and that Art provided a memorable experience! We appreciate your suggestion regarding the Jeep and train package and will make sure to better promote it for future guests. We’d love to welcome you back for another tour—perhaps with the package next time!
Great LaPlata Jeep tour
jamesrO3816LS, Sept 2025
Excellent adventure. Cat our guide was great. Very scenic. Would definitely go again. 5+ stars. Never felt rushed,spent more time than the tour said.
Response from Host, Sept 2025
Thank you so much for your fantastic review and for choosing Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your LaPlata Jeep adventure with Cat as your guide. It's great to know you appreciated the scenic views and the relaxed pace of the tour. We strive to make each trip memorable and tailored to our guests, so your feedback means a lot. We hope to welcome you back for another adventure soon!
Itinerary
Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours
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
4 hoursAdmission Included
Experience
Highlights
Inclusions
- Scavenger Hunt for Kids
- Water
- Granola Bars
- Blankets
- Ponchos
- Knowledgeable guides
- Customized, Open-Air Jeep
Exclusions
- Gratuities
Additional 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!
Guide Languages
English
Cancellation Policy
A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.
No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.