Glenwood Canyon: Side by Side ATV Tour on Bair Ranch

Summary

Ride mountain trails, spot wildlife, and feel the Colorado wind

You’ll climb rugged trails through Glenwood Canyon on a side by side ATV tour with a local guide who knows every turn of Bair Ranch. Expect mountain views, wildlife sightings, and plenty of laughs (even if you’re new to driving these). Helmets and goggles are included for safety — just bring your sense of adventure.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to laugh so much before we even started the engines. Our guide, Mike, handed out helmets and goggles — mine kept slipping sideways and he just grinned, “That’s how you know it’s a real adventure.” The air smelled sharp, like pine needles after rain, and there was this low hum from the canyon that made everything feel bigger than it looked in photos. I’d never driven a side by side before (honestly, I was nervous), but Mike ran through the basics without making me feel dumb.

Once we got rolling up into Bair Ranch, the ground changed under us — sometimes soft dirt, then suddenly rocky patches that rattled my teeth. We stopped at this open stretch where you could see snow still clinging to distant peaks. Someone in our group tried to name all the wildflowers (I only remembered lupine), but mostly we just stood there breathing in cold air and not saying much. There were mule deer watching us from the trees — they didn’t seem bothered at all.

Mike told stories about his family working this land for generations. He pointed out an old fence line and said something about how storms change everything here overnight. I liked that he wasn’t rushing us; when one of us stalled out on a hill, he just waited, no big deal. My hands were buzzing from gripping the wheel too tight but I didn’t want it to end yet. Even now I can almost hear that engine echoing off the canyon walls.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Side-by-side adventure in Glenwood Canyon

• Introduction to side-by-side riding
• Explore mountain trails in Glenwood Canyon
• Enjoy views of valleys and peaks
• See wildflowers and local wildlife
• Follow experienced guides with stops

Top questions

Is this Glenwood Canyon side by side tour good for beginners?

Yes, it’s designed for first-time riders with guidance from experienced local guides.

How long does the ATV tour last?

The experience lasts about 2 hours total.

Are helmets and goggles provided on the Bair Ranch ATV tour?

Yes, both helmets and goggles are included for all participants.

Will we see wildlife during the Glenwood Canyon ATV ride?

You may spot local wildlife such as mule deer along the trails.

Is lunch or hotel pickup included in this tour?

No, lunch and hotel pickup are not included; only helmets and goggles are provided.

What should I wear for the Glenwood Canyon ATV adventure?

Wear comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for changing weather conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes use of helmets and goggles for safety throughout your ride on Bair Ranch’s private trails in Glenwood Canyon, with a local guide leading each step of your two-hour adventure.