Are these tours for me? What can I expect?
Our tours are crafted especially for you! We’ve spent the past three decades driving thousands of miles of trails in Colorado, and Ridgeline Tours was begun after countless discussions about what a shame it is that so few people get to see and experience the magic of the high country. When we aren’t leading a tour, we’re out on our own every chance we get! That said, while the overwhelming majority of our guests have a great time, our off-road tours may not be right for everyone. This is why we’ve chosen to add our civilized tours to the mix so there truly is a tour for everyone. When selecting a tour, consider everyone in your group, their ages, attention span, what they want to see, and the length of the tour. We stop several times along the way to let you stretch your legs, admire the views, and take pictures. All of our tours are incredibly scenic and can be enjoyed by almost everyone. In order to reach the panoramic views and incredible vistas, however, there will be narrow roads, sheer drop-offs, and heights to be navigated. While some folks are uneasy with such things, most guests find them to be an exhilarating part of the off-roading experience. If you have specific questions about the above, please don’t hesitate to ask before making a reservation. It’s your vacation, and we want you to have fun!
Cancellation Policy
We understand that sometimes plans change, which is why cancellations made at least 3 days prior to your tour are fully refunded.
Can you tell me about your vehicle?
Gladly! We’ll be traveling in a 100 Series Toyota Land Cruiser which has been customized for off-road and overland travel: lifted suspension, larger wheels and tires, locking differentials (front, rear, and center), off-roading front and rear bumpers with winch, snorkel, on-board air-compressor, rock sliders, full coverage roof rack, dual batteries, two-way satellite communication, separate front and rear seat heating and air-conditioning, with seating for seven. Please note, the two-person third row seat has less leg room and is more comfortable for children. That said, however, we have had adults ride there many times, and people can easily rotate seats during our stops along the way.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, please let us know and we will try to accommodate these when planning our snacks and picnic lunch.
Are tour times exact?
Not exactly. Another benefit of our all-private tour structure is that we can, within reason, shorten or lengthen the trip as you like. We like to refer to our tours as having structured spontaneity.
Where do tours leave from?
Our tours begin in Florissant where we’ll meet at the Costello Street Coffee House. Costellos resides in a Victorian house dating to 1885 and is located at the corner of Hwy 24 and Costello Street (2679 US Highway 24, Florissant, 80816). There is ample parking to leave your vehicle and, if you like, you can grab a coffee and make a last-minute pit stop before we head out.
What about gratuities?
Thank you, but please keep your money. Gratuities are not expected.
What should I bring / wear?
A sense of adventure and your camera are the most important items; however, it’s quite possible we’ll experience four seasons of weather is a single day, especially as we climb in elevation. So for your comfort during our stops along the way, we recommend the following: a light to medium jacket or rain coat in the summer and a heavier coat and stocking hats for the rest of the year; sunscreen and sunglasses; any medication that you might need; sturdy shoes, boots, or sneakers are recommended (please avoid flip-flops and sandals and you can thank us after); for those with long hair, you may want to bring a hair tie as it can be windy up there; and you may bring along a purse or day backpack.
What if it rains or snows?
Bonus! The forests, mountains, and valleys have a completely different look and feel and, while different, the scenery is just as beautiful as it is with sunny blue skies.
Are there any medical restrictions?
No; however, please use good judgement and, if appropriate, consult with your doctor. Although we can reach emergency services from anywhere, help may be hours away, and we’d prefer not to have to administer CPR or deliver a baby.
What about restrooms?
On some of our routes, we’ll pass by porta-potties or vault toilets; however, when nature calls elsewhere, we’ll do what bears do…there are trees and bushes almost everywhere. For your comfort, we bring a portable toilet seat, toilet paper, sanitizing wipes, and disposable bags, on our tours and nothing is left behind. Think a loo with a view!
Are we licensed and insured?
Yes, Ridgeline Tours is licensed by the State of Colorado and is insured as a tour company for our off-road adventures.
What do the Green, Blue, and Black trail ratings mean?
Borrowing the familiar Green = Easy, Blue = Moderate, and Black = Difficult rating system used on the ski slopes, each of our tours can be booked to the comfort level of your group.
- Green rated routes travel on both paved and gravel roads and are accessible year-round. These routes are relatively smooth with mild terrain unlikely to make anyone uncomfortable.
- Blue rated routes will have some sections of rough, unmaintained, rocky roads thrown in the mix. While some blue rated routes are accessible year-round, others have only seasonal access. These routes may also have sections of shelf road with drop-offs and no guardrails, which some people find unnerving.
- Black rated routes will have extended periods of travel over steep and rocky terrain; any shelf roads may be narrower with deeper drop-offs. All black rated routes are seasonal access only (typically open June through October). Because of the significant jostling experienced on these routes, they are not recommended for young children or for individuals with neck and spine issues.
Note: Trail difficulty levels may be adjusted by the guide due to weather, time of year, and group make-up.
