The 3 Best 2 Hour Tours in Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Springs is famous for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, making it a perfect spot for quick yet memorable excursions. With towering mountains, roaring rivers, and vast private lands, you can find a variety of 2-hour tours that deliver a taste of Colorado’s rugged charm. Whether you prefer the thrill of riding an ATV, the tranquility of a horseback ride, or testing your aim at clay shooting, Glenwood Springs offers options that suit different interests and comfort levels. These short adventures are ideal for travelers with tight schedules or those wanting a quick adrenaline fix without sacrificing authenticity.
If you’re after outdoor experiences with a personal touch, these tours stand out for their quality, reviews, and unique features. Each provides a different way to learn about the Colorado landscape—some with spectacular views, others with hands-on challenge—and all at a pace that keeps the experience fun and engaging.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find three top-rated 2-hour tours: a small-group ATV adventure that explores private ranch lands (2-Hour Side by Side Adventure), a scenic horseback ride through Glenwood Canyon (2 Hour Horseback Ride), and an exciting sporting clay shooting experience (2 Hours Sporting Clay Shooting). Each offers a distinctive way to experience Colorado’s landscape, with options for different budgets and activity levels. Let’s explore each in detail.
1. 2-Hour Side by Side Adventure
Our first pick is the 2-Hour Side by Side Adventure, a small-group ATV tour that whisks you through 6,000 acres of private land outside Glenwood Springs. This tour is perfect if you want a personalized experience and the chance to see Glenwood Canyon from a different perspective—something that’s hard to do from the car or on foot.
After a brief tutorial, your guide will lead you on a thrilling ride through rocky trails, lush meadows, and along the roaring rivers. The routes are chosen to offer spectacular views of mountains and wildflowers, with plenty of opportunities to stop for photos. The guide remains attentive, ensuring safety and sharing insights about the terrain and local history. With a maximum of two people per group for $330, this is an intimate experience that feels custom-tailored.
Guests consistently rave about the beautiful ranch and insane views from the ATV, with “Our tour guide was phenomenal” and “Beautiful views, very personal,” among the top comments. The tour is suited for both experienced riders and beginners, thanks to the thorough instruction beforehand. The price reflects its exclusive nature, but the personalized attention and the scenery make it worthwhile for a memorable adventure.
Bottom Line: If you want a private, scenic, and exhilarating ride that balances fun and safety, this ATV tour is a top choice. It’s especially great for couples or pairs seeking a unique way to explore Colorado’s mountains.
2. 2 Hour Horseback Ride
Next on our list is the 2 Hour Horseback Ride, offering a peaceful journey into the heart of Glenwood Canyon’s natural beauty. From the stables, you’ll climb in elevation and cross a mesa meadow, where the Colorado River winds lazily through the canyon. This ride is designed to give you a relaxed yet immersive experience of Colorado’s rugged landscape, perfect for those who want to enjoy nature at a gentle pace.
The guide will lead you past aspen groves, cedar forests, and panoramic vistas. Along the way, you’ll have opportunities to spot wildlife and take photos of the sweeping scenery. The trail is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders, and the horses are described as calm and well-cared-for. The ride costs $155 per person, making it quite accessible for most travelers.
Reviewers consistently mention the breath-taking views and helpful guides, with one saying, “Nice ride up to an open meadow with an awesome view,” and noting how the guides give plenty of time for photos. Wear sunscreen, bring water, and wear long pants to protect against bugs and sun exposure. It’s ideal for those wanting a relaxing outdoor experience that still offers a sense of adventure.
Bottom Line: For a scenic, laid-back ride that highlights Glenwood Canyon’s natural splendor, this horseback tour provides excellent value and a memorable introduction to Colorado’s wilderness.
3. 2 Hours Sporting Clay Shooting
Finally, if you’re looking to test your aim and have a bit of competitive fun, the 2 Hours Sporting Clay Shooting at Bair Ranch is a standout choice. This activity involves shooting shotguns at clay targets in a challenging and lively environment, perfect for groups, families, and individuals wanting a different kind of outdoor experience.
The setup is flexible: targets are set to cater to all skill levels, from total novices to seasoned shooters. Kids can participate with BB guns, which are available upon request, making it a family-friendly option. The price is $185 per person, which reflects the quality of the experience and the professional setup. Expect to spend around two hours engaging in a fast-paced, skill-testing activity amid spectacular canyon surroundings.
While this tour currently has no reviews, it’s tailored for those who enjoy a hands-on challenge in the outdoors. The instructors are experienced and adapt each session to your ability. It’s an active choice for travelers who prefer a competitive edge or want to try something different from the usual outdoor excursions.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in a dynamic, skill-based activity and don’t mind a little recoil, this clay shooting tour offers a fun, adrenaline-pumping alternative to riding or relaxing.
How to Choose the Right 2-Hour Tour in Glenwood Springs
When deciding which tour fits your interests, consider your budget, physical fitness, and what kind of experience you’re after. For those seeking adventure and scenic views, the side-by-side ATV tour offers a personalized thrill through private ranch lands, perfect for couples or friends looking for a semi-private experience. If you prefer a gentle, nature-focused outing, the horseback ride provides stunning canyon vistas at a relaxed pace, great for families or first-timers. For action and competition, the clay shooting experience is ideal, especially for those wanting to challenge themselves or enjoy a social activity.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular times or weekends. Think about your comfort level with each activity—some require more physical effort, while others are more laid back. Prices vary from $155 for the horseback ride to $330 for the ATV, so budget accordingly if you’re traveling with a group.
Final Thoughts
Glenwood Springs offers a variety of 2-hour outdoor adventures that can fit different interests and activity levels. For a thrilling private ride, the Side by Side Adventure stands out. On the other hand, if you’re after a peaceful ride with incredible canyon views, the Horseback Ride is a perfect choice. And for those wanting to try something different, the Clay Shooting offers a fun challenge.
No matter which you choose, each provides a memorable glimpse of Glenwood Springs’ stunning landscape. Booking early will ensure you secure your preferred time, so don’t wait to plan your adventure in this Colorado mountain town.