yankee boy basin
10,800 feet / lots of history / gorgeous scenery
A Fascinating Adventure into Ouray’s Yesteryear
As one of the most recognized areas in the San Juan Mountains, Yankee Boy Basin is considered the gateway to the Sneffels’ Mountain Range. Framed by spectacular 13,000 and 14,000 ft peaks such as Pitosi, Teakettle, Cirque, Stony Mountain, and of course, Mount Sneffels, the trail is visually dramatic, yet offers a mild climb through colorful canyon walls, abundantly lined with Aspen and Pine. This trip is complete with vintage mining relics of a once booming mining era, as well as ghost towns, double waterfalls and frequent wildlife. Home to Colorado wildflowers such as Columbine, Paintbrush, Larkspur and Cow Parsnip, it is a wildflower enthusiasts’ haven.
This tour is best enjoyed in late Spring while the snowmelt feeds the creeks and waterfalls. Also one of our favorite late Fall choices as the prolific Aspen turn brilliant gold, amber and plum!
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Highlights
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Wildflowers
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Ghost Towns
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Twin Waterfalls
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Especially Beautiful Spring/Fall
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3-hour experience
Trip Details & Logistics

Approximately 3 hours. AM and PM departures seasonally. Generally available from May 20th – October 7th.
“Being a little sensitive to elevation and rough roads, the staff recommended this tour. We were very pleased with the scenery and experience”