About This Trip
Of all the ways to escape Durango for a quick mountain fix, a journey into La Plata Canyon’s Columbus Basin is hard to beat! In just 2½ hours, you’ll climb to 10,745 feet for sweeping views of alpine meadows, soaring peaks, and vibrant mountain scenery. Along the way, you’ll discover cascading waterfalls, historic mining sites, and the rich beauty of Colorado’s wild country.
This shorter adventure still packs in plenty of wildlife sightings — keep your eyes peeled for deer, marmots, foxes, birds of prey, and, if luck’s on your side, a moose or bear.
From late June through early August, the meadows shimmer with wildflowers. Come late September to early October, glowing aspen groves take over the scene in a blaze of fall color. Whatever the season, Columbus Basin offers a taste of the San Juan Mountains you won’t forget.
- Breathtaking views from 10,745 feet in Columbus Basin
- Tumbling waterfalls and sparkling creeks
- Historic mining sites and ghost town remnants
- Vibrant wildlife: deer, marmot, fox, elk, moose, bear, birds of prey
- Wildflower displays in summer & golden aspens in fall
- Knowledgeable guides with fascinating canyon stories
- Fun, adventurous roads you’d never take in your own vehicle
Itinerary
Booking Options
Standard Jeep Tour
Escape to the breathtaking panoramic views of the La Plata Canyon where you’ll see colorful wildflowers, towering mountain peaks and wildlife.
- All Ages
Recent Reviews From Our Guests
What are you waiting for? Call today (800) 567-6745 OR (970) 247-4789
Payments & Cancellations
Payment Plan
We start with a 50% deposit, and have the remaining 50% charged 30 days prior to trip. Trips reserved less than 30 days in advance require payment in full.
Please call for alternative payment arrangements.
Cancellation Policy
Receive a full refund with written notice 24 hours or more before the trip. Less notice, no refund.
Trip Change Option
Up to 12 hours prior to departure, trips can be rescheduled for a different day and/or time. The price of this change policy is 5% of the total trip cost. Upgrade only available at time of reservation and must be applied to each seat.
Fees
In addition to the listed trip cost, we collect an additional 9% for River and Land Access Fees (ie. Forest Service, BLM, City, Private Land Use).
Trip Departure Policy
We reserve the right to switch river/locations based on current conditions and a minimum number of participants. This trip requires 4 participants or paid seats to depart.
Free Courtesy Hold
We don’t want you to miss out on this trip so we’ll hold your spots, payment-free, for 24hrs while you make your final arrangements & prepare for payment.
What to Wear & Bring
- Dress in layers: T-shirt, sweat shirt and a warm jacket (Spring & Fall tours especially)
- Warm Hat & Gloves (Spring & Fall Tours)
- Sun Hat
- Rain Jacket
- Hiking Shoes
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Water Bottle – the guides will have water for refills!
- Snacks
- Camera
How To Dress And What To Bring On A Colorado Jeep Tour
Important Considerations
Colorado Car Seat Law states children up to 9 years old must be in an appropriate car seat. Please bring your own.
This route starts out smooth before becoming fairly bumpy half-way up the trail. If rocking around in the vehicle may cause any issues for you, please reach out and talk with our adventure consultants!
In fall and spring the temperatures/weather can fluctuate quite a bit. So bring layers with you just in case! The guides usually have blankets as well.
La Plata Canyon is prone to afternoon rain showers! Bring some rain gear.
All routes/itineraries are subject to change depending on road conditions.
Plan Your Trip
Meet Location & Directions
- Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours
- 970-247-4789
- 50 Animas View Dr., Durango, CO 81301
- Get Directions
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