Colorado Springs: Cripple Creek Backcountry Jeep Tour

If you’re looking to explore Colorado’s rugged, scenic beauty without the hassle of planning every detail, the Cripple Creek Backcountry Jeep Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of the high country. This 4-hour adventure takes you through some of Colorado’s most striking landscapes—think canyons, towering peaks, and historic gold rush towns—all from the comfort of a modern, carefully maintained Jeep. It’s a solid choice for travelers craving engaging storytelling, breathtaking scenery, and a bit of off-the-beaten-path exploration.

What we really love about this tour is the knowledgeable guides who share stories and folklore along the way—making history come alive with their enthusiasm and local insights. Plus, the views of Pikes Peak and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains are genuinely unforgettable, providing perfect photo opportunities. The only thing to consider? Since it’s a small group (limited to four participants), it might fill up quickly, so booking in advance is wise. This tour suits adventurers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, history, and a bit of adventure in the Colorado outdoors.

Key Points

• Authentic Colorado backcountry experience with scenic vistas and historic towns.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert guides share stories and folklore, enriching the journey.
• Stops for photos and exploration make the experience flexible and immersive.
• Off-road driving on Shelf Road offers spectacular canyon views and rugged terrain.
• Comfortable, modern Jeep vehicles equipped for safety and weather variations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Early Moments: Manitou Springs and Ute Pass

The tour kicks off in Colorado Springs, with a convenient meet-up at 2615 W Colorado Ave. The group gathers in a parking lot 15 minutes prior to departure, giving you a moment to mingle with your fellow travelers and get comfortable. The Jeep is a modern, well-maintained vehicle with a convertible top for summer tours or a hard top if you’re visiting in winter—this flexibility helps keep everyone comfortable in changing weather conditions.

Your guides are the backbone of this experience. They’re passionate, personable, and attentive to safety, making sure everyone feels secure—especially at high altitudes where the effects of altitude can vary. They handle all weather concerns, and oxygen or water is available in the Jeep if needed.

Once aboard, your journey begins with a drive through the eclectic mountain town of Manitou Springs, famous for its quirky shops, historic charm, and mineral springs. This part of the trip is a gentle warm-up, offering glimpses of Colorado’s mountain culture and an opportunity to appreciate the lush scenery of Ute Pass on the north face of Pikes Peak. Expect your guide to share interesting stories and local folklore that bring this area’s character to life.

Up the Mountain: Pikes Peak and Tenderfoot Pass

After the initial drive, you’ll ascend toward Pikes Peak, one of Colorado’s most iconic mountains. The drive takes about an hour, and during this stretch, you’ll soak in sweeping views of the Sawatch Mountain Range on the horizon and the town of Manitou Springs below. As the elevation increases, the scenery shifts—pine forests give way to alpine views, and your guide will point out notable features and share stories about the area’s history.

Reaching the historic town of Cripple Creek, you’ll get a taste of Colorado’s gold rush past. Once a bustling gold mining town, Cripple Creek retains its old-time charm with historic buildings, gaming halls, and a fascinating past. The drive over Tenderfoot Pass marks the transition from town to wilderness, offering panoramic views that are perfect for photos.

Exploring the Backcountry: Shelf Road and Canyons

The highlight for many is the drive down Shelf Road, a dirt track that only accessible by specialized vehicles like your Jeep. This stretch is the true backcountry experience, winding through deep canyons and rugged valleys that seem untouched by modern development. The scenery here is jaw-dropping, with towering red cliffs, lush greenery, and dramatic drops—an experience that’s as scenic as it is exhilarating.

Your guide will point out notable geological formations and share stories about the area’s geology, folklore, and mining history. Frequent stops are part of the plan—these give you the chance to stretch, take photos, or just soak in the serenity of Colorado’s wild side.

More Great Tours Nearby

Ending the Tour: Cripple Creek Heritage Center and Return

After exploring Shelf Road, the Jeep heads back toward Cripple Creek, where you’ll stop at the Cripple Creek Heritage Center. This is a great spot for a brief break, with additional info about the area’s gold rush history and local culture.

The return journey offers more spectacular views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains on the horizon and gives you a chance to reflect on a well-rounded adventure. The entire experience lasts about four hours, striking a good balance between sightseeing, storytelling, and relaxed exploration.

What’s Included and Practical Tips

The tour includes your enthusiastic guides, modern safe Jeeps, and snacks/water if needed. You might find it worthwhile to bring weather-appropriate clothing—mountain weather can change quickly. The guides handle all safety concerns, especially at higher elevations, so you can relax and enjoy the ride.

This experience is perfect for those who prefer a small, intimate group—limited to four participants—ensuring personalized attention. It’s not suitable for babies under one year, but for older children and adults who enjoy scenic drives mixed with storytelling, this tour offers excellent value.

Highlighted Reviews & Real Experiences

Many travelers praised the guides’ local knowledge and engaging storytelling, noting that it added depth to the stunning scenery. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way our guide shared stories and folklore, bringing history to life during the drive,” which shows how much personality and insight the guides bring to the experience.

Others especially appreciated the views of Pikes Peak and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, describing the landscape as “breathtaking,” with a reviewer adding, “The drive on Shelf Road was something I’ll never forget—such a rugged, raw slice of Colorado’s wilderness.” The chance to see wildlife along the way was also a bonus for some.

The Value of This Experience

At $110 per person, this tour offers a lot for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. You’re paying for not just a scenic drive, but a carefully curated adventure that balances fun, safety, and storytelling. The small group size means you’ll get more personalized attention and flexibility in exploring stops.

Compared to larger bus tours, the Jeep experience feels more intimate and hands-on, allowing for spontaneous photo stops and off-the-beaten-path views. The cost also includes snacks and water, which is a nice touch in the high-altitude environment.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see Colorado’s wild side without the hassle of self-driving or long hikes. It’s perfect for those looking for a manageable, yet memorable, outdoor adventure that combines natural beauty, history, and a touch of thrill.

The Cripple Creek Backcountry Jeep Tour stands out as a well-rounded, authentic Colorado experience. You’ll love the knowledgeable guides who make history lively and the spectacular vistas that make every photo look like a postcard. The off-road drive through Shelf Road is a highlight, revealing Colorado’s rugged, untouched beauty in a way that’s both exciting and scenic.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate small groups, engaging storytelling, and a comfortable way to explore Colorado’s mountains and backcountry. If you’re after a genuine, scenic adventure with plenty of opportunities to learn and photograph, this experience is a strong choice.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves some rugged driving and high altitudes, so it may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues. But for anyone ready to enjoy Colorado’s spectacular landscapes in a relaxed, informative setting, this Jeep tour delivers on all counts.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, including stops for photos and exploration.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at 2615 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904, in the designated parking lot 15 minutes before your scheduled departure.

Is the vehicle comfortable?
Yes, the Jeeps are modern, safe, and comfortable, with convertible tops in summer or hard tops in winter.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, as mountain weather can change quickly. Snacks and water are provided if needed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year old, but older children and teens who enjoy scenic drives should find it engaging.

What’s included in the price?
Your guides, the Jeep vehicle, and snacks/water if needed are included. Tips are not specified but appreciated.

Are there any physical demands?
The tour involves some off-road driving and moderate elevations, but no strenuous physical activity is required.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, reservations are available with the option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What’s the main highlight?
The drive down Shelf Road through canyons and the panoramic mountain views are the most memorable aspects.

This detailed review aims to give you all the nuts-and-bolts info you need to decide if this Colorado Jeep tour fits your travel style. It’s a mix of scenic beauty, local stories, and a dash of adventure—perfect for those wanting a meaningful look at Colorado’s wild side.

You can check availability for your dates here: