ATV (quad) ride on a beautiful and fun Rocky Mountain trail

If you’re looking to add a little adventure to your trip to Estes Park, an ATV (quad) ride might just be the perfect fit. We’ve come across this experience offered by Backbone Adventures, and it promises a fun, active way to take in some of Colorado’s most beautiful scenery. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, the details and reviews suggest it’s a solid option for anyone eager to get their adrenaline going and enjoy the outdoors from a different perspective.

What immediately caught our attention is how this experience combines the freedom of riding at your own pace with the reassurance of having guides nearby. Plus, the fact that you’re out on a trail with views that many travelers rave about makes this something worth considering if outdoor exploration is your thing. That said, it’s not a guided tour in the traditional sense—you’re unguided, but with support available if needed. One thing to keep in mind is the cost—$159 per group—and whether that feels like good value for roughly three hours of riding fun.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy active experiences, are comfortable with moderate physical activity, and want to explore the Rocky Mountains in a way that feels personal and flexible. Families with older kids or groups of friends looking for a memorable outdoor activity will likely find this appealing. If you’re after a guided tour with fixed stops or want a more structured experience, you might want to explore other options. Otherwise, let’s dive into what this ATV ride entails and why it could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Self-guided but supported: Guides are on the trail to assist with riding techniques and point out vistas.
• Flexible pacing: Ride at your own speed, making it suitable for different experience levels.
• Stunning scenery: The trail offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.
• Inclusive gear and instructions: Helmets, fuel, and safety instructions are provided.
• Convenient logistics: No need to return to the start point after riding, saving travel time.
• Cost considerations: $159 per group, with optional damage protection for peace of mind.

What You Can Expect from the ATV Trail Experience

This ATV adventure begins with an easy check-in process in Estes Park at the Backbone Adventures shop. Arriving about an hour early means you have time to settle in, get your gear, and chat with the friendly staff. After check-in, you’ll hop into your vehicle and enjoy a scenic 25-minute drive to the trailhead, set in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

Once you arrive at the trailhead, a quick briefing will cover safety tips, riding techniques, and a map of the trail. The actual ride is unguided, which might sound a little daunting at first, but the staff is on the trail with you, ready to help if needed. This arrangement gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace—whether you want to take it slow and soak in the views or push a little more on the more exciting sections.

The trail itself is designed to be both fun and scenic. You’ll be riding Polaris Razors, which are sturdy and easy to handle, especially once you’re familiar with the basics. Expect a mix of wide-open sections where you can open up the throttle, and narrower, more technical bits that will test your riding skills a bit. Along the way, guides can help point out some of the best vista points—perfect photo ops—and suggest fun sections if you’d like a bit more adrenaline.

When your ride wraps up, it’s a straightforward process: hop back into your car and head to your next destination. No need to worry about returning to the shop, which is a nice touch that simplifies logistics.

What’s Included and What You Need to Know

The package covers helmets, fuel, and safety instructions—all the essentials for a safe and smooth ride. The cost (roughly $159 per group) reflects a good value, considering the three-hour duration and the flexibility to ride as you please. Optional damage protection is available for $50, which might be worth considering if you’re concerned about potential mishaps.

Not included are all fees and taxes, which are standard, and you need to bring your own vehicle for the drive to the trailhead. Since the experience requires a moderate physical fitness level, it’s worth noting that it’s probably best suited for active travelers comfortable on a quad.

The Experience: Breaking Down the Trail

The adventure kicks off at the Estes Park shop, where you’ll check in and then enjoy a short drive to the trailhead. This 25-minute drive is a chance to get some initial glimpses of the surrounding scenery and mentally prepare for your ride.

Once on the trail, the real fun begins. The trail map and safety briefing are brief but important, especially for those new to ATV riding. The staff’s support throughout the ride ensures you’re never alone if you need help or want some tips. We love that you can go at your own pace—making it ideal for beginners who want to take it slow and enjoy the scenery, or more experienced riders craving a challenge.

The trail itself includes a mix of sections, some wide and open, perfect for testing your speed, and others more technical, which will test your riding skills. The views along the way are what make this experience stand out. From high vantage points, you’ll get sweeping vistas of the Rocky Mountains, perfect for photos to remember the day.

One of the highlights is the ability to explore independently but with the safety net of guides nearby. Jessica_L, a traveler who rated this experience 5 out of 5, shared, “Fun filled afternoon. Make it your own—go at your own pace. We had a blast and could have done it all day!” That kind of feedback hints at how flexible and enjoyable the ride can be.

The Value of This Experience

At $159, this ATV tour offers a good balance of price and experience. You’re paying for a roughly three-hour adventure that’s not just about riding but also about experiencing the landscape in a uniquely personal way. The ability to ride unguided, with support available, means you get the freedom to craft your own adventure while knowing help is nearby if needed.

Compared to guided tours with fixed routes and multiple stops, this ride feels more like a tailored outing—more freedom, less structure. For travelers who appreciate that balance, this could be a real highlight of their trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ATV experience is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable with moderate physical exertion. If you like the idea of exploring the Rocky Mountains from a different angle, this ride could be perfect. It’s also a good choice for groups wanting flexibility—they can ride at different speeds and enjoy the vistas together.

Keep in mind, the ride is unguided, so it’s not ideal if you prefer a fully guided, narrated experience. Also, since it’s a trail ride, it’s not tailored specifically toward children or beginners who might need more detailed guidance or a different type of adventure.

Final Thoughts

This ATV ride on Rocky Mountain trails with Backbone Adventures offers a blend of adventure, flexibility, and stunning scenery. The fact that you can go at your own pace and still have guides nearby makes it a versatile choice for many outdoor enthusiasts. The trip’s emphasis on scenic views and the freedom to explore without a rigid schedule makes it stand out from more structured tours.

For those who love active pursuits, enjoy self-led excursions, and want to experience the Rockies from a new perspective, this ATV adventure has a lot to offer. It’s a chance to create your own story in the mountains, with the support of friendly guides and the beauty of Colorado’s wilderness all around you.

FAQs

How early should I arrive for check-in?
You should arrive about an hour before your scheduled ride to allow time for check-in and vehicle prep.

Where is the meeting point?
The start point is at 1851 N Lake Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517.

How long does the drive to the trailhead take?
The drive from the shop to the trailhead is approximately 25 minutes.

What’s included in the price?
Helmets, fuel, and safety instructions are included.

Can I ride at my own pace?
Yes, the ride is unguided, so you can go as fast or slow as you like within safety limits.

Is there an age or fitness requirement?
A moderate physical fitness level is recommended, but specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled time for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring your own vehicle for the drive to the trailhead. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity.

Is damage protection necessary?
It’s optional but available at $50, which might give peace of mind in case of mishaps.

What do travelers say about this experience?
Jessica_L said, “We had a blast and could have done it all day,” highlighting the fun and flexibility of this ride.

If you’re after a fun, active way to see the Rocky Mountains that allows you to set your own pace, this ATV trip by Backbone Adventures could be just the ticket. It offers a balance of adventure, scenic beauty, and independence—perfect for travelers craving a little mountain thrill without the fuss of guided routes.