JEEP TOURS
THE DEETS
Always take the scenic route. It’s a motto I love to live by, and while most of the time it means wandering off the main road to explore, in our area it’s so much more than just a side road. Criss-crossing our state are dirt roads which can take you to some of the most stunning views not accessible by highway or interstate, and Jeep tours are a perfect way to see these backcountry sights if you’re travelling with very young children, older relatives, folks who are unable to walk long distances, or for people who know hiking just isn’t their thing (and that’s entirely ok!).
Just like many of our activities, there are degrees of intensity when it comes to Jeep tours. Some roads are more primitive and adventurous, while others are more maintained, so just be sure to let your offroading provider know what type of tour you are interested in when you are booking and your driver can tailor the road he or she chooses for you. No matter what kind of offroad tour you choose, it’ll be the scenic route!
One of the main differences between Jeep tours and ATV tours is you’ll be in the vehicle with your guide, so you’ll get a very personalized experience. The offroad guides in our area are extremely knowledgeable of the terrain, history, flora, and fauna of our mountains, and love to share their stories with their guests!
RECOMMENDED VENDORS
Based out of 4 Eagle Ranch, Above & Beyond is a smaller, locally owned and operated company specializing in customized trips. After your tour, swing by the Vines at Vail Winery (also located on the ranch) for a post off-road libation!
Join Lakota Guides for an offroad tour at Bair Ranch, a 5,500 acre family owned and operated historic working ranch—not only will you get a gorgeous view of the ranch and the Glenwood Canyon, you’ll be invited to their Ranch Dinner with ribeye steak, baked potato, and all the fixins. You can also choose to do a Wine & Cheese Sunset tour or an offroad tour during the day of this beautiful ranch with views for days.
Nestled in the valley of Camp Hale, Nova Guides has trails going through meadows of flowers all the way up to views of 14,000ft mountains. You can choose to do a tour with lunch, or even a sunset tour to experience the alpenglow and magic hour.
Timberline Tours has guides who have been doing Jeep tours for over 30 years! When you are picked up, your guide will ask you questions about what kind of tour you’d like and based on your feedback and the trail/weather conditions they can choose the roads best for you. They also offer advanced tours if you’re feeling extra adventurous!
WHAT DO I WEAR & IMPORTANT INFO
Because the Jeeps are open-air for the best views, it’s good to be prepared for all weather conditions even if the forecast is showing as sunny. You’ll be climbing in elevation, too, so remember it typically gets cooler as you ascend. Always ensure you are wearing closed toe shoes and clothing you don’t mind getting muddy or dusty. I recommend wearing long pants over shorts, because for me it’s more comfortable having a barrier between the seat and my skin. I also like to wear a tank top and bring warmer layers, a light jacket, and rain jacket just in case. Sunglasses are also super important, as is sunscreen! And don’t forget your camera!
Of course, if you enjoyed yourselves, don’t forget to thank your guide–gratuities are always appreciated. I always recommend 18-25%, or you can do a flat $15-20 per person if you prefer. A gratuity is a wonderful way to show how much fun you had, and your guide will certainly appreciate it!