Durango: La Plata Mountains 90 Minute Scenic Flight Tour

Explore Colorado’s La Plata Mountains from Above in a 90-Minute Scenic Flight

This 90-minute scenic flight tour offers an exhilarating way to see Colorado’s San Juan Mountain Range and Durango from a fresh perspective. Departing from Animas Air Park, the tour takes place in a Cessna aircraft with an experienced pilot and certified flight instructor, Bruce Odiorne II, who brings over 1,200 hours of mountain flying experience.

The tour is perfect for those looking for a mid-length aerial adventure that combines breathtaking scenery with professional guidance. Travelers should be aware that the experience involves flying in a small aircraft, and certain mobility or health restrictions apply. It’s a great choice for anyone eager to capture stunning photos of Colorado’s snow-capped peaks and historic mining areas in a private group setting.

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Key Points

• Duration: 1.5 hours of scenic skies over Durango and La Plata Mountains
• Departure Point: Animas Air Park, Durango, Colorado
• Aircraft: Cessna with an experienced pilot and flight instructor
• Highlights: Views of snow-covered peaks, historic mining claims, and Durango from above
• Group Type: Private group, skip the line with a separate entrance
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Starting from Durango: A Scenic Flight in a Cessna Aircraft

The tour begins at the Durango Flight Tours hangar located at Animas Air Park, with precise coordinates 37.2046, -107.8663. Once there, the pilot, Bruce Odiorne II, greets passengers, sharing his extensive mountain flying experience and passion for aviation.

After a safety briefing, you board the Cessna aircraft, ready to take off for a 90-minute journey. The flight provides an up-close view of the La Plata Mountains, with the pilot expertly guiding you over the peaks and historic claims in the San Juan Mountain Range. The experience balances adventure with safety, making it accessible for most travelers who meet the physical criteria.

The Flight Path Over the La Plata Mountains

Once airborne, the departure from Durango offers an exciting view of the surrounding terrain. The flight soars over the snow-covered La Plata Mountains, revealing panoramic views that are difficult to appreciate from the ground. The pilot points out notable features such as historic mining claims, adding a touch of Colorado’s rugged history to the scenery.

Throughout the flight, travelers are encouraged to capture photos and videos, with the landscape stretching out in every direction. The combination of red sand deserts, snow-capped peaks, and rugged terrain creates a diverse and striking landscape that is sure to impress.

Detailed View of the La Plata Mountains and Surroundings

The La Plata Mountains dominate the landscape, offering spectacular vistas of their snow-dusted summits. The San Juan Mountain Range extends across the horizon, with the pilot providing insightful commentary about the geology and features seen from above.

You also get a unique perspective of Durango itself, as the aircraft passes over the town and its surroundings. The aerial view allows for photo opportunities that showcase the contrast of natural beauty and historic mining sites in this part of Colorado.

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The Pilot: Bruce Odiorne II’s Expertise

The pilot and guide, Bruce Odiorne II, is a Certified Flight Instructor with a commercial pilots license and instrument ratings. His over 1,200 flight hours in the Four Corners area, especially in mountainous terrain, ensures that the flight is both safe and informative.

Bruce is known for his passion, combining aviation expertise with a genuine enthusiasm for sharing Colorado’s landscapes. His professional approach and focus on safety make this a trustworthy experience for travelers seeking a well-led aerial tour.

What’s Included and Practical Details

The tour lasts 1.5 hours, beginning and ending at the 76 Tail Dragger location within Animas Air Park. Passengers meet at the aircraft hangar and are given a separate entrance to avoid lines, making the process smooth and straightforward.

Reserving in advance is recommended, with the option to pay later, providing flexibility to accommodate travel plans. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure, adding peace of mind.

The tour is designed as a private group experience, ensuring an intimate environment. The English-speaking guide explains the scenery and safety procedures throughout.

Important Restrictions and Considerations

This tour is not suitable for children under 4, individuals with certain health issues, or those with mobility impairments. Specific restrictions include no smoking, vaping, large luggage, intoxication, glass objects, or alcohol consumption during the flight.

Travelers should also note that people over 250 lbs (113 kg), those with high blood pressure, motion sickness, or altitude sickness may find the experience less comfortable. The aircraft size and safety regulations are designed to ensure a safe and enjoyable flight.

Comparing This Tour to Other Colorado Aerial Experiences

While similar in offering aerial views, this Durango flight emphasizes mountain scenery and historic claims, setting it apart from tours focused solely on national parks or cityscapes. The private group setting enhances the personalized experience, and the expertise of Bruce Odiorne II adds value for those keen on understanding Colorado’s mountainous geography.

Other experiences, such as visits to Rocky Mountain National Park or Royal Gorge, may offer different landscapes, but this tour’s focus on Colorado’s San Juan Mountains makes it a distinctive choice for mountain scenery lovers.

Booking and Flexibility for Your Travel Plans

Booking is flexible with reserve now and pay later options, allowing travelers to secure their spot without immediate payment. The full refund policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers reassurance in case plans change.

This tour’s schedule varies with availability, so checking starting times in advance is advisable. The experience is perfect for those wanting a shorter, scenic aerial adventure that fits into a day of sightseeing in Durango.

Final Thoughts on the La Plata Mountains Scenic Flight

This Durango-based scenic flight delivers stunning views of Colorado’s La Plata Mountains and San Juan Range in a well-led, professional environment. The 1.5-hour duration hits a sweet spot, providing ample scenery without feeling rushed.

The expert pilot, Bruce Odiorne II, guides you through Colorado’s mountain terrain, making this experience both visually impressive and educational. The private group setting, combined with easy booking and cancellation options, makes it a practical choice for travelers seeking a memorable aerial adventure.

While physically restrictive for some, this flight suits adventure seekers, photography enthusiasts, and mountain lovers eager to see Colorado from above with safety and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this scenic flight suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 4 years or individuals with certain health or mobility issues. Please review the restrictions before booking.

How long does the flight last?
The total duration of the scenic flight is 90 minutes, including takeoff, the scenic route, and landing.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour departs from and returns to 76 Tail Dragger, Animas Air Park, Durango, with precise coordinates provided.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled flight for a full refund.

What should I bring or consider?
Passengers should be prepared for small aircraft riding, and no large luggage or glass objects are permitted onboard. Be mindful of restrictions related to health and weight.

This scenic flight over La Plata Mountains offers an exceptional way to appreciate Colorado’s rugged beauty from the skies, combining expert guidance, breathtaking scenery, and flexible booking options.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby