High County Old West 4×4 Jeep Tour

If you’re craving a taste of Colorado’s rugged beauty without the hassle of strenuous hikes or backcountry camping, the High County Old West 4×4 Jeep Tour offers a fantastic alternative. For around $195 per person, you’ll spend four hours exploring the back roads of Pike National Forest, climbing above the treeline to enjoy panoramic views of the Colorado Rockies. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour promises a mix of wildflower-dotted meadows, babbling streams, and possibly even sightings of local wildlife.

Two things we particularly love about this tour: first, how it combines adventure and scenery—you’ll get to be off-road in a sturdy Jeep while soaking in some of Colorado’s most spectacular mountain vistas. Second, the guides are praised for their friendly expertise—they’re not just drivers but storytellers who bring the landscape alive with history and local knowledge.

One thing to consider: since the tour is limited to weekdays, it’s best suited for travelers with flexible schedules seeking a quieter experience. It’s ideal for those who want a manageable, scenic adventure without the physical exertion of a demanding hike. If you’re interested in wildlife, incredible views, and learning about the area, this tour ticks a lot of boxes.

Key Points

• Scenic High-Altitude Views: Reach elevations of up to 11,200 feet for sweeping vistas of the Rocky Mountains.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make the experience memorable.
• All-Inclusive: The tour provides bottled water, sodas, light snacks, and warm blankets—no need to pack much.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to just five participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Ideal for Weekday Travelers: Tour runs only on weekdays, offering a quieter, less crowded experience.
• Weather Preparedness Essential: Be sure to dress in layers and bring sun protection; weather can change quickly in the mountains.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Colorado Rockies in a 4×4

The journey begins at Adventures Out West in Colorado Springs, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into a rugged Jeep designed for off-road adventures. The tour is a carefully curated experience, focusing on the scenic beauty of Pike National Forest—an area renowned for its wildflower-draped meadows, pristine streams, and a wild variety of flora and fauna.

From the start, the emphasis is on scenic vistas. The 4-hour ride takes you high above Colorado Springs, climbing up dirt roads that lead to breathtaking viewpoints at elevations of up to 11,200 feet. The guides are experts at navigating these back roads, ensuring your safety while also pointing out interesting features along the way.

What Makes This Tour Special

One of the biggest draws here is the spectacular scenery. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to unparalleled views of the Rocky Mountains’ rugged peaks and expansive alpine meadows. Travelers have raved about the “fantastical” views, with some reviewers noting that their guides made the experience even more memorable by sharing stories and insights about local wildlife and mountain geology.

The tour is also a chance to observe Colorado’s diverse flora and fauna. While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, eagles, deer, and possibly even larger animals like cougars or bears might be spotted. The guides’ keen eyes and knowledge enrich the experience, making it more than just a scenic drive.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The day begins with a brief meet-and-greet at the tour provider’s location, next door to Rudy’s Hideaway Restaurant. After safety instructions and a quick introduction, you’ll set off in a sturdy Jeep, steering away from pavement and into the wild back roads of Pike National Forest.

The first part of the journey is a gentle climb through forests of pine and aspen, where you’ll enjoy the fresh mountain air. As you ascend, the terrain becomes more rugged, and the views more dramatic. The guides will stop at several vantage points, allowing everyone time to soak in the landscape, snap photos, and breathe in the mountain serenity.

One highlight is reaching above the treeline, where the air is crisp and the landscape opens into alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers. Here, you might see streams rushing past and beaver ponds shimmering below. The guides are happy to share stories about the area’s natural and human history, adding context to the natural beauty.

The return journey is equally scenic, winding through forests and along streams that sparkle in the sunlight. Throughout, bottled water and light snacks are provided, and the warm wool blankets come in handy if the mountain breeze picks up.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Guides

Reviews reveal that visitors often remember their guides fondly. One reviewer commented that “Arrow was awesome,” and another appreciated how “Mustang Sally” went back to retrieve a lost bag, demonstrating genuine care. The guides are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about the area—a crucial element that transforms a simple ride into a memorable adventure.

Their storytelling, combined with their ability to navigate challenging terrain skillfully, ensures safety and fun. This makes the tour suitable for those who value authentic, personalized interaction over large-group bus-style excursions.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Practical Side: Planning Your Visit

Cost-wise, at $195 per person, this tour offers good value considering the all-inclusive nature—bottled water, snacks, and warm blankets are included, and the small group size guarantees personalized service. It’s important to dress in layers and bring sunscreen, as mountain weather can change rapidly, and you’ll be exposed to the sun at high elevations.

Since the tour takes place on weekdays only, it’s best suited for travelers with flexible schedules who want to avoid crowds. The limited group size—just five participants—means a more intimate experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter, more personal adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone who wants a taste of Colorado’s mountain wilderness without strenuous activity. It suits all ages, provided participants are comfortable in an off-road vehicle and prepared for changing weather conditions. Families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a small-group experience will appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to learn about Colorado’s natural environment from friendly guides.

Final Thoughts

The High County Old West 4×4 Jeep Tour offers a compelling way to explore Colorado’s stunning Pike National Forest with minimal effort but maximum scenery. The combination of expert guides, breathtaking views, and comfortable small-group setting makes it a standout choice for those looking to enjoy the mountains in a relaxed, informative manner.

While the price might seem steep compared to a casual drive, the value in personalized attention, authentic natural encounters, and panoramic vistas justifies the expense. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Colorado traveler, this tour provides an authentic taste of the Rockies that will stay with you long after the engine has cooled.

Who It’s Best For:

• Travelers wanting a scenic, less physically demanding mountain experience
• Those interested in wildlife and natural history
• Anyone seeking a small, intimate group with personalized guidance
• Visitors to Colorado Springs looking for a memorable day trip

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 4 hours, usually in the morning, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Where do I meet the tour?
Meet at Adventures Out West, next door to Rudy’s Hideaway Restaurant. The guide will be holding a sign, so look for that.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers with closed-toe shoes. Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from sun and mountain weather changes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The data doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the off-road nature and the need for a minimum of 2 participants, it’s best for older children comfortable in a vehicle and outdoors.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, bottled water, sodas, and light snacks are provided. It’s recommended to bring additional personal items if needed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility for your schedule.

In short, if you’re looking for a scenic, relaxed, yet adventurous way to experience Colorado’s mountain landscapes, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for those who enjoy authentic guide-led experiences, panoramic views, and the chance to see Colorado’s wildlife—all from the comfort of a sturdy Jeep.

You can check availability for your dates here: