DURANGO JEEP FIELD GUIDE
Into La Plata Canyon: A Half-Day Jeep to a Private 25‑Foot Waterfall
A 4‑hour open‑air Jeep tour from Durango that gives exclusive access to a private 25‑foot waterfall on an old mining claim; this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Into La Plata Canyon: A Half-Day Jeep to a Private 25‑Foot Waterfall.
Board an open‑air Jeep with Durango Rivertrippers and climb into the crown jewel of the San Juan Mountains for a concentrated, family‑friendly outing. Over roughly four hours you’ll travel into high country and gain access to private ground — including a 25‑foot waterfall on an early‑1900s mining claim — before returning with the rest of the day still open for more Durango adventures.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Private 25‑Foot Cascade
The tour includes exclusive access to a 25‑foot waterfall that sits on an old mining claim dating to the early 1900s — a rare stop that the operator offers only on its private Jeep tours.
Open‑Air Jeep Access (Wrangler as Needed)
You’ll travel in an open‑air vehicle built for trail viewing; the operator reserves the right to substitute a Jeep Wrangler when necessary, keeping the experience rugged and immediate.
The San Juan Mountains’ 'Crown Jewel'
The route pushes into the heart of the San Juan Mountains, offering broad access to landscapes described by the operator as the region’s crown jewel and to private areas other companies cannot reach.
What the day feels like
What the Half‑Day Feels Like
Expect a compact, purposefully paced excursion: meet in Durango, board an open‑air Jeep, and head up into the San Juan high country. The itinerary focuses on raw, scenic driving and a definitive highlight—the private waterfall on a historic mining claim—delivered within a four‑hour window so you can still spend the afternoon on other pursuits.
THE WATERFALL
A Private 25‑Foot Cascade
The tour includes exclusive access to a 25‑foot waterfall that sits on an old mining claim dating to the early 1900s — a rare stop that the operator offers only on its private Jeep tours.
THE RIDE
Open‑Air Jeep Access (Wrangler as Needed)
You’ll travel in an open‑air vehicle built for trail viewing; the operator reserves the right to substitute a Jeep Wrangler when necessary, keeping the experience rugged and immediate.
THE SETTING
The San Juan Mountains’ 'Crown Jewel'
The route pushes into the heart of the San Juan Mountains, offering broad access to landscapes described by the operator as the region’s crown jewel and to private areas other companies cannot reach.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this half‑day suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The tour runs approximately 4 hours.
Meet at 360 South Camino Del Rio Suite 200, Durango, CO 81301 for check‑in and departure.
Camera, sunscreen, water, dress in layers and bring a jacket year‑round — the operator notes you will travel to higher elevations and on the highway.
Operated by Durango Rivertrippers LLC under special‑use permit #COL937 from the USDA Forest Service, San Juan National Forest.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the La Plata Canyon Jeep tour?
The tour is approximately 4 hours long.
Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at Durango Rivertrippers, 360 South Camino Del Rio Suite 200, Durango, CO 81301.
What are the highlights of the trip?
Highlights include travel into the San Juan Mountains and exclusive access to a private 25‑foot waterfall on an early‑1900s mining claim.
What should I bring?
Bring a camera, sunscreen, water, dress in layers and carry a jacket — the operator specifically recommends a jacket year‑round due to higher elevations.
Is the tour family‑friendly?
Yes — the operator describes this as a great adventure for the entire family.
Will the vehicle always be an open‑air Jeep?
The tour uses an open‑air vehicle but the operator reserves the right to substitute a Jeep Wrangler if needed.