Explore Colorado’s Backcountry with a Guided Jeep Adventure for $110

The Colorado Springs: Cripple Creek Backcountry Jeep Tour offers a unique way to experience Colorado’s rugged beauty. Priced at $110 per person and lasting approximately 4 hours, this tour takes you through some of Colorado’s most striking landscapes and historic towns. Departing from Colorado Springs, the tour is perfect for those seeking an engaging, scenic journey with knowledgeable guides and small group sizes.

This tour combines the thrill of off-road driving with stops for photos, exploration, and storytelling. A highlight is the drive along Shelf Road, a dirt route that offers breathtaking views of canyons and valleys only accessible by such an adventure. While it’s a great fit for most travelers, those with limited mobility should consider the outdoor nature of the experience.

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Key Points

Cost: $110 per person for a 4-hour guided tour
Includes: Modern Jeeps, passionate guides, snacks, and water
Highlights: Pikes Peak views, Cripple Creek history, Shelf Road scenery, wildlife spotting
Small groups: Limited to 4 participants for a personalized experience
Weather readiness: Guides handle all conditions, and Jeeps are equipped for safety and comfort

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Discover Cripple Creek’s Historic Gold Mining Roots

A major part of this tour is exploring Cripple Creek, a renowned historic gold mining town. The guide shares stories, folklore, and insights about the town’s colorful past, adding depth to the scenic drive. Once there, visitors enjoy views of the Sawatch Mountain Range and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains on the horizon.

The trip offers an authentic glimpse into Colorado’s mining history without the crowds often found in larger tour groups. The town’s atmosphere provides a nostalgic backdrop, and the drive into Cripple Creek is scenic, with the route passing Tenderfoot Pass and offering unforgettable mountain views.

Scenic Drive through Ute Pass and Manitou Springs

The tour begins with a drive through Manitou Springs, a charming mountain town known for its eclectic vibe and natural springs. The guide leads a relaxed drive up Ute Pass, where panoramic views of Pikes Peak unfold. Frequent stops at viewpoints allow for photos and short walks, giving travelers time to take in the mountain scenery and learn about local lore.

This part of the trip is ideal for appreciating Colorado’s mountainous terrain and vibrant small towns. The combination of town charm and mountain vistas creates a well-rounded start to the adventure.

Conquering Shelf Road’s Rugged Terrain and Views

One of the standout features is the drive along Shelf Road, a dirt trail famous for its dramatic canyons and sweeping vistas. This part of the journey is only accessible by off-road vehicle, making it a true backcountry experience. The road winds through narrow passages and exposes travelers to the rugged terrain that defines Colorado’s wilderness.

At the end of Shelf Road, the group pauses at the Cripple Creek Heritage Center for a break. Here, visitors can stretch, take photos, and reflect on the spectacular scenery before heading back. The scenery is described as “spectacular,” with towering canyon walls and lush valleys framing the route.

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Small Group Experience with Passionate Guides

The tour is limited to just 4 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. The guides are described as passionate and enthusiastic, eager to share stories, folklore, and insights about the area. They prioritize safety and comfort, handling all weather conditions with well-maintained Jeeps equipped with top-notch tires.

Guides are vigilant about high-altitude effects and provide oxygen and water when needed. This attention to safety makes the tour suitable for most travelers, including those unfamiliar with outdoor adventures.

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Comfortable, Safe Transportation in All Seasons

The Jeeps used are modern, safe, and designed for off-road conditions. During summer, they feature convertible tops to enjoy the sunshine and mountain air, while in winter, they come with hard tops for added warmth and protection against weather. The comfortable seating and safety features ensure a smooth ride over rough terrain.

Snacks and water are available if needed, allowing travelers to stay refreshed during the four-hour journey. The meeting point is conveniently located at 2615 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, and travelers are advised to arrive 15 minutes early.

Flexible Booking with Cancelation and Payment Options

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled time, providing flexibility in travel planning. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, securing their spot without immediate payment, perfect for flexible itineraries.

The activity is available in the morning, with live English-speaking guides providing a friendly and informative atmosphere. The small group size enhances interaction and allows for tailored attention from the guides.

Practical Tips for Participants

Travelers should bring weather-appropriate clothing, as mountain weather can change quickly. The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year due to the outdoor nature and terrain. Guides are experienced in handling all weather conditions and prioritize guest safety, ensuring a secure adventure regardless of the forecast.

The experience is designed to appeal to those who enjoy scenic drives, historic towns, and wildlife spotting, making it an engaging choice for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This backcountry Jeep tour is best suited for travelers who want an authentic Colorado experience with a focus on scenery and history. It’s ideal for those comfortable with outdoor excursions and small group settings. Visitors seeking an action-packed, scenic journey with storytelling will find this tour both fun and informative.

While not geared toward very young children, the tour offers a memorable adventure for families with older kids, couples, or small groups interested in exploring Colorado’s wilderness in comfort and safety.

Colorado Springs: Cripple Creek Backcountry Jeep Tour – Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-balanced mixture of adventure, scenery, and storytelling. The 4-hour duration strikes a good balance between seeing the highlights and avoiding fatigue. The small group size ensures a personal touch, while the passionate guides enhance the experience with local stories and safety.

While the rugged terrain along Shelf Road is a highlight, travelers should be prepared for outdoor conditions and bring suitable clothing. The drive through historic Cripple Creek, combined with panoramic views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, makes this an authentic Colorado experience.

This tour delivers spectacular scenery and cultural insights at a reasonable price, making it a memorable choice for those eager to explore Colorado’s mountainous backcountry.

Ready to Book?

Colorado Springs: Cripple Creek Backcountry Jeep Tour

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year old. It’s best for older children comfortable with outdoor activities and small vehicle rides.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing, including layers for changing mountain weather, is recommended. The guide provides oxygen and water if needed.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. You can also reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes modern Jeeps, passionate guides, snacks and water, and small group attention. Convertible tops are available in summer, hard tops in winter.

What are the highlights of the drive?
Expect stunning views of Pikes Peak, Cripple Creek, Shelf Road, and the surrounding canyons and valleys, along with stories from the guides about local folklore and history.

How long is the drive to Cripple Creek?
The drive from Colorado Springs to Cripple Creek takes about an hour, passing scenic mountain views along the way.

Is the terrain difficult?
The dirt Shelf Road features rugged, narrow sections but is navigable in a well-maintained Jeep. Guides handle all driving and safety considerations.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at 2615 W Colorado Ave in Colorado Springs, arriving 15 minutes before the scheduled start time.

This Colorado Springs: Cripple Creek Backcountry Jeep Tour offers a comprehensive, scenic, and engaging experience for those looking to explore Colorado’s mountain wilderness with expert guides and comfortable transportation.