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Yankee boy basin, colorado.

Nestled in an alpine environment, Yankee Boy Basin is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can expect lush vegetation, cascading streams, mountain lakes, and two waterfalls. The towering rocky peaks, still holding onto the last of their winter snow, add to the basin’s breathtaking beauty.

Prime Time for Wildflowers

Late July to mid-August is the best time to visit Yankee Boy Basin and when we recommend taking our wildflower photo tour . During this time, wildflowers are in full bloom. The wildflowers at Yankee Boy Basin are a sight to behold. Visitors can expect to see Alpine Forget-Me-Nots, Indian Paintbrush, and Columbine flowers. These colorful blooms, set against the green foliage, create an impressive display of nature’s beauty. Additionally, the wildflowers are home to several species of butterflies, making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts.

Yankee Boy Basin is not only home to stunning wildflowers, but also boasts two beautiful waterfalls:  Twin Falls is easily accessible and only requires a short hike. The sound of the waterfalls combined with the natural beauty of the area make for an unforgettable experience and makes for uniquely beautiful photos.

At the top of Yankee Boy Basin, visitors will find several beautiful mountain lakes. Surrounded by towering peaks, these crystal-clear lakes offer a serene and picturesque setting. The largest of the lakes is known as Blue Lakes, and it’s a popular spot for fishing and camping. There are also several smaller lakes that are perfect for a picnic or a refreshing dip on a hot summer day (waters will be wicked cold however). The views from the lakes are stunning, and visitors can soak up the tranquility of this alpine wonderland.

Combining Destinations

Yankee Boy Basin can be combined with other destinations in the area, such as Engineer Pass and Imogene Pass , which connect directly to it, and other Ouray/Telluride Jeep trails. Fall Color tours are also an excellent option, although the wildflowers will no longer be in season.

Ease of Access

Compared to most of the other Jeep trails in the area, Yankee Boy Basin is relatively easy. It’s an excellent option for those who may not wish to tackle more challenging destinations. Visitors can take a scenic drive and still enjoy the magnificent views without worrying about any challenging trails. As the snow lasts well into the summer and begins again early in the fall, the Basin Road is generally accessible from early June until late September (one the earliest to open and last to close trails in the area).

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Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you

Yankee Boy Basin is a Mountain Paradise: Here’s Your Local Guide

• February 24, 2023
• By foxintheforest

Last Updated on January 11, 2024 by foxintheforest

If you’re looking for classic Colorado mountain scenery, look no further than Yankee Boy Basin. This iconically scenic valley delivers a little bit of everything. From gorgeous wildflowers to challenging summit hikes, there’s something here for everyone.

I’ve been to Yankee Boy Basin a few times now and I never get tired of the beautiful surroundings. As a long-time Colorado local of nearly 15 years, I’m on a mission to give you the best local Colorado insights. So if you want to discover Yankee Boy Basin like a local and not a tourist, you’re in the right place.

About this Guide to the Yankee Boy Basin Trail

Inside this local guide to the Yankee Boy Basin Trail you’ll find:

• Practical info for visiting Yankee Boy Basin including road conditions, location, and difficulty.
• A suggested timeline for driving the Yankee Boy Basin Trail
• Things to do at Yankee Boy Basin
• Nearby attractions
• Additional Colorado travel resources

Where is Yankee Boy Basin?

Yankee Boy Basin is a scenic 4×4 trail located just southeast of Ouray, Colorado. Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, this iconic Colorado destination features wildflowers, hiking, 4×4 driving, and drool-worthy views.

To get here , take 550 or the Million Dollar Highway south out of Ouray, then turn onto Camp Bird Road (near the Ouray via ferrata ). The road turns to dirt rather quickly past here. Continue south until you reach a fork in the road and take the right (north) fork onto Yankee Boy Basin Trail.

Is the Road to Yankee Boy Basin Open? Best Time to Visit

Yankee Boy Basin Trail is not maintained during the winter months and is exceptionally dangerous to drive when there’s snow. The winter gate closes shortly after the turnoff from 550 throughout the winter. Always check local conditions before you go (14ers.com road conditions is usually up-to-date).

The best time to visit Yankee Boy Basin is between late June or early July through September. July is wildflower season and the blooms here are spectacular.

Local Tip: As one of the top things to do in Ouray , Yankee Boy Basin gets crowded during the summer months – especially on holidays and weekends. If you want to visit with fewer crowds, consider an early start.

How Difficult is Yankee Boy Basin?

The trail itself is not too difficult. Most people rate it as a moderate 4×4 road (or a tedious road hike if you’re walking). The road gets a 2.5-difficulty rating and reaches an elevation of over 12,500 feet.

If you want to make it all the way to the Atlas Mine, you’ll need a short wheelbase, 4WD, good clearance, and careful driving.

Visitors who are afraid of heights might not like parts of this road. There are sections where there are steep drop-offs and overhanging rocks. However, as far as 4×4 roads go it’s pretty wide. Compared to other 4×4 roads in the Ouray area, this one is relatively tame.

Do I Need a 4WD Vehicle for Yankee Boy Basin?

This answer is a little complicated. In short, it depends. The road starts off as a graded, mellow dirt road. Then turns into a bumpy shelf ride. A hybrid SUV could easily make it to the lower Mt Sneffels parking area.

Past the pit toilets at the lower Mt Sneffels trailhead, the road quickly requires more clearance and power than your average SUV. You’ll need a capable 4×4 vehicle (think 4Runner or Wrangler) past this point as it only gets more difficult the further up you go.

If you plan to drive the entirety of the road then you’ll certainly want a 4WD vehicle with solid tires and a short wheelbase. We have a stock 4Runner on BF Goodrich AllTerrains and didn’t have any issues. We did need 4 low and some careful navigation through steep, rutted obstacles.

However, our friend had a lifted Tacoma with well-loved AllTerrains and couldn’t make it up some of the steep sections. The longer wheelbase was an issue, as were the tires. He parked right below the Wright Lake Trailhead.

How Long Does it Take to Do Yankee Boy Basin?

As an 18.6-mile out-and-back route, the Yankee Boy Basin trail takes around 2 hours to complete. This includes plenty of time to stop and drool at the stunning scenery. It makes for a great intro to a fun-filled day out in the San Juans.

There is a small detour down to Wright Lake that’s well worth the detour, but the road in and out can be a bit rugged.

Local Tip: Plan for extra time if you want to hike Mt Sneffels or to the top of Blue Lakes Pass.

Things to Do at the Yankee Boy Basin

As one of the top scenic drives in Colorado , there are a variety of amazing things to see and do while exploring Yankee Boy Basin. Here’s a look at a few stops and excursions along the way.

Climb Mt Sneffels

Arguably the most popular thing to do in the basin, Mt Sneffels is a difficult, class 3 mountain climb that starts at Yankee Boy Basin. As one of Colorado’s 14ers , it sits at an elevation of 14,159′.

Local Tip: If you’re hiking Mt Sneffels in the summer start early as violent, dangerous thunderstorms plague the area every day in the summer.

The lower trailhead (where most people start) is 5.57 miles and 2,749 feet of gain. From the upper trailhead, it’s 2.6 miles round-trip and 1,591 feet of elevation gain. The route is semi-technical, meaning it’s a scramble, not a hike. You’ll need a helmet and a lot of stamina to make it to the top.

Local Tip: This route has plenty of loose rock in a gully. Be sure to wear a helmet, as active rockfall is quite common. If you let a rock fly down, be sure to yell “rock” to people who may be climbing below you.

Hike or Drive to Wright’s Lake

Steep slogs up a loose rock gully not your thing? Then hike to Wright’s Lake. There is a small parking area just beyond the Mt Sneffles Lower Parking Lot. Park here (4×4 required) and hike the 2.7-mile easy out-and-back trail to Wright’s Lake. It’s a scenic detour that’s worth the effort.

Hike to Blue Lakes Pass

If you’re feeling motivated, after you reach Wright’s Lake, continue up the trail around the lake all the way to the top of Blue Lakes Pass.

Here you’ll get stunning views of Blue Lake, one of the top mountain lake hikes in Colorado . You can continue all the way to Blue Lake, but you’ll have to re-ascend the pass on the way back.

From the Wright Lake Parking lot, it’s a 5.2-mile out-and-back journey with 1,695 feet of gain – moderate by Colorado standards.

Spot Twin Falls

Along the way you’ll see a small signed turnoff on the left-hand side of the road that heads to Twin Falls. This small, but beautiful Colorado waterfall is well worth a stop. Personally, I found the wildflowers near here to be exceptionally enjoyable.

Take in the Mountain Scenery

There are so many stunning peaks located in the Yankee Boy Basin. Potosi Peak, Teakettle Mountain, Cirque Mountain, Stony Mountain, Gilpin Mountain, and Mt Sneffels are just a few of the stunning rugged mountains you’ll see along the way.

Photograph Wildflowers

Yankee Boy Basin offers up some of the best wildflower viewing in the state. It’s especially popular because you don’t need to hike for miles on end to get there.

This area provides plenty of opportunities for amazing photography. You literally can’t go wrong along the road. Time your trip just right by aiming for a visit from late June through early August.

Check Out The Atlas Mine

Be on the lookout for the Atlans Mine. An abandoned mine located up a steep slope, this old relic of the past is quite impressive to see. I’m not a huge mine ruins person, but wondering how they lugged all of that material up that hillside left me in awe.

The mine is located a few minutes past the Camp Bird and Imogene Pass turnoff, right before the Atlas Mill Campground.

Camping at Yankee Boy Basin

Due to its popularity, you are only allowed to camp at designated campgrounds near Yankee Boy Basin. There is no dispersed camping and violators will be fined. These are some of the top campgrounds near Ouray, so be prepared to share space. Nearby campgrounds include:

• Thistledown Campground
• Angel Creek Campground

Campgrounds are run by the National Forest Service and offer basic amenities such as picnic tables, a fire ring, and vault toilets. You are expected to pack out your trash, so come prepared. They cost $10 a night and are available on a first-come-first-served basis.

Tips for Visiting Yankee Boy Basin

Want to visit Yankee Boy Basin like a local? Keep these top tips in mind.

Get an early start. Jeep tours tend to set out mid to late morning here. So to avoid the rush of people, plan on starting between 7 and 8 am – especially on weekends. Make it fun. Pack your camping stove and bring some breakfast (we really enjoyed making burritos as the sun peaked over the mountains).

Plan for thunderstorms . Near-daily thunderstorms roll in almost every afternoon. Every year hikers get caught in lightning storms. Hail can damage vehicles and make driving conditions slick. If you’re hiking, it means you’ll want to be back to your car by noon. There is no storm cover for most of the Yankee Boy Basin.

Pring plenty of water and sun protection . You’re up there in altitude. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection.

Watch your pup’s feet. This is a dog-friendly activity. But you are expected to clean up after your pet. Not to mention the higher-up hikes have plenty of small sharp rocks that can cut Fido up quickly. Bring paw wax and a first aid kit to protect your pup.

Fires are not allowed outside of designated fire rings. This is a fragile environment that’s prone to wildfires. No open flames except gas-powered stoves outside of campground fire rings.

Nearby Attractions

Looking for things to do nearby? Well, you’re in luck. There are plenty of awesome things to do nearby. A few of my favorites include:

• Taking an OHV through the Alpine Loop
• Hiking to Ice Lake
• Supping at Ridgeway State Park
• Driving Black Bear Pass, Imogene Pass, or Ophir Pass to Telluride
• Driving the Million Dollar Highway for sunrise

Additional Local Colorado Travel Resources

Looking to explore even more of Colorado’s famous mountain beauty? Check out these local resources:

• Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Telluride in Summer
• Your Complete San Juan Skyway Itinerary (coming soon)
• Amazing Wildflower hikes in Colorado

Meg Atteberry

Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.

Let’s connect!

Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. She's been widely-published in the outdoors and even appeared on National TV talking about how to level up your outdoor skills and discover hidden hikes in the American West.

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 At our company, for over 75 years, we've recommended to discuss with our guides after you board the tour vehicle the best tour options for the day depending on their experiences the days preceding your visit . Our guides would like you and your party to have the best Jeep Tour experience for your chosen day. 

Already been? Tell us where you have been before and we’ll take you on another great route. 

Yankee Boy Basin

Known as the "Flower and Waterfall Trip" Yankee Boy Basin is a trip that begins in town, has mining history, and is one of the best general overall jeep tour experiences for a half day tour.  In addition to its magnificent flora and fauna, almost all area wildlife are able to be seen during different alpine seasons.  Some of our guides not only specialize in wildlife and photography but have done more tours than others in the area combined!  This ride includes the famous spot where one of our guides, who took Disney representatives four different times, to pattern their rides exclaims "Disneyland has nothing on us-our tour is real"!  Touted as a photographer's paradise, we've taken National Geographic, Arizona Highways, and other photography groups annually to this beautiful basin.    

This tour is perfect for families who want to see what Ouray, named the "Jeep Capitol of the World" in no small part due to our jeep company, has to offer.

Black Bear Pass

 Our company helped build this route in 1959 making another round trip route in addition to Ophir, Last Dollar, and Imogene. We were featured twice in National Geographic and on the first song of CW McCall's best hits album until taken over by "Convoy" which went to number one in the nation. Wild Bill drove this route over 2,000 times and some of our current drivers have done it hundreds of times.

Black Bear Pass can only be booked by phone as a private full day tour.

Corkscrew Gulch

See the famous Red Mountains! Once at the top of the pass, the views are fantastic. The drive offers an incredible bird’s eye view of Como Lake or the best ghost town in the area.  With jaw-dropping views around every corner, be sure to bring a camera and plenty of juice to keep it alive.

Engineer pass

A phenomenal and technical off-road experience! Follow Engineer Pass all the way to Lake City or cut off at Animas Forks and head towards Silverton. The main entrance to Engineer Pass is four miles south of Ouray along Highway 550, marked by a cascading waterfall and a staging area. The easier entrance is via Corkscrew Gulch. In Animas Forks, stay on the Engineer Pass trail to the left. Stay left at Poughkeespie Gulch to continue up to Engineer Pass at 12,850 feet. From here, you can return or continue to Lake City. 

And many more!

Call for info!

San Juan Scenic Jeep Tours

920 Main Street, Ouray Colorado, 81427

(970) 325-0089

Copyright © 2023 San Juan Scenic Jeep Tours - All Rights Reserved.

The 5 Best Half-day Tours in Ouray

Ouray, Colorado is a small town nestled in the San Juan Mountains, known for its stunning scenery and endless outdoor adventures, from canyoning to jeeping and via ferrata. Be it if you’re on a road trip from Denver to Ouray or maybe looking for a half-day adventure tour that will get your heart racing, there are plenty of things to do near Ouray . Here are five of our top picks, all within a 20-mile radius of our beautiful town:

Things to do near Ouray, CO

1. canyoning in portland creek.

Canyoning, also known as canyoneering, is a thrilling adventure sport that involves rappelling down steep canyon walls and navigating through narrow slot canyons. Portland Creek is located 5 minutes from Ouray Town Center and is the perfect introduction to the activity. Portland Creek offers the perfect terrain for canyoning enthusiasts. With the help of an experienced guide, you’ll explore the canyon’s narrows and waterfalls up to 60ft! This half-day tour is suitable for families with young kids from 12-years-old and above.

2. The Gold Mountain Via Ferrata

The Gold Mountain Via Ferrata is a private climbing experience offered through our partners at Basecamp Ouray .  This Via Ferrata has it all, from historic mine portals, a 100 year old blacksmith shop, to a 300 foot wire cable bridge. Not to mention the incredible views you will get over the entire valley looking out towards Ouray.  This is an amazing half day tour for anybody trying to challenge themselves both mentally and physically.

3. Jeep Tour to Yankee Boy Basin

If you’re looking for a more relaxed adventure, a Jeep tour to Yankee Boy Basin is the perfect choice. This high-alpine valley is only accessible by 4-wheel drive, and the scenery is absolutely stunning. You’ll drive through fields of wildflowers, past waterfalls, and up to the base of several towering peaks. Along the way, your guide will share stories about the area’s mining history and the local wildlife. This half-day tour is perfect for families or anyone who wants to take in the beauty of the San Juan Mountains without breaking a sweat. Our partners Alpine Jeep Tours provide an awesome experience for you.

3. Via Ferrata in the Uncompahgre Gorge

For those who want to experience the thrill of climbing a vertical rock face, the Ouray Via Ferrata in the  Uncompahgre Gorge is the place to be. This narrow canyon is one of the best things to do near Ouray , and features towering rock walls and a beautiful river this provides amazingly beautiful terrain for Via Ferrata climbing. This Via Ferrata can be done With the help of a certified guide, or on your own with some previous knowledge.  You can rent gear at the Ouray Adventure Center or book a guide with our partners at Basecamp Ouray , with them you’ll learn the basics of climbing and safety techniques before scaling the canyon’s steep walls. This half-day tour is perfect for anyone who wants to challenge themselves both physically and mentally.

5. Hiking to Blue Lakes

If you’re up for a challenging hike with breathtaking rewards, a trek to Blue Lakes is the perfect choice. Located just outside of Ridgway, this trail winds its way through high-alpine meadows and past crystal-clear lakes. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the San Juan Mountains and maybe even spot some wildlife. This half-day tour is perfect for anyone who wants to get out into nature and experience the beauty of Colorado’s wilderness.

In conclusion, Ouray, Colorado, is a paradise for adventure seekers, and there are plenty of half-day tours that will get your heart racing. From canyoning in Portland Creek to hiking to Blue Lakes, there’s something for everyone in this stunning part of the country. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure, Ouray is sure not to disappoint!

Now taking bookings for the 2023 season.

Ouray is our home and Canyoning is our way of life. Come experience canyoning with us in Colorado.

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Basin Butte Road

Located just minutes away from Stanley, Basin Butte Road is a stunning scenic trail that presents a myriad of captivating sights. Along the route, adventurers can find a historic fire lookout and an enchanting alpine lake perched at an impressive elevation exceeding 8,000 feet. The trail treats visitors to awe-inspiring vistas of the Sawtooth Mountains, with glimpses of Stanley Lake in the distance and the vast expanse of the Valley Creek plains. Once you arrive at the Historic Basin Butte Lookout, unobstructed panoramic views stretch for miles in all directions.

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Commencing at Jordan Valley, Oregon, the trailhead beckons adventurers on a mesmerizing voyage, where vast open ranges and scenic vistas unfold before their eyes. Along this captivating route, the region's geological formations, wildlife, and rich historical significance come to life, painting a fascinating picture of the area's past. The trail shows evidence of Native American cultures and early exploration, adding depth and context to the journey.

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A prominent feature of this trail is the breathtaking views of the North Fork Owyhee River Rim, surrounded by a picturesque landscape of trees, rock formations, and awe-inspiring vistas. This idyllic spot offers a perfect haven for reflection amid nature's serene embrace, inviting travelers to pause and savor the moment's tranquility.

Moreover, the Owyhee Uplands Backcountry Byway provides access to five wilderness areas: Owyhee River, North Fork Owyhee River, Pole Creek, Little Jacks Creek, and Big Jacks Creek Wildernesses. Each of these areas offers its unique blend of natural wonders, contributing to the allure and diversity of this extraordinary trail.

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ENGINEER PASS

12,800 feet / rugged / memorable, engineer pass. the real deal..

Engineer Pass makes the list as one of the most exciting, rugged and highest mountain passes in Colorado.  Located in the San Juan Mountains between Ouray and Silverton, this trail comprises one half of the well-known Alpine Loop . Engineer Pass features a summit of 12,800 feet with incredible examples of the area’s tumultuous geologic history of volcanic and glacier activity resulting in richly colored layers of emerald, amethyst, rust and blue shades of rock face lining the trail’s edge. Hold on to your seats as you crawl over 18″ – 32″ shelf rock, cross creek beds, stumble upon old boarding houses, tram cables, miner’s cabins and summit the unforgettable ‘Oh Point’ for stunning 360 degree views! And, if that were not enough, tour through the timeless ruins of the San Juan Chief and Mineral Point to the Hurricane and Corkscrew trail heads. Truly one of our favorite authentic 4 wheel drive Ouray Jeep tour experiences! 

Engineers Pass tour is a private trip which crosses some extreme terrain and lasts typically 6 hours. If you are interested in booking this trip please call our office or feel free to email us.

Diverse Geology

Skilled 4×4 Drivers Only

Approximately 8 hours

Includes Animas Forks

Great for Wildlife Watching

$675 includes up to 4 guests

Additional guests $150 per person

Children under 5 years of age not recommended.

970-325-4484

Bear Creek Crossing

Engineer to Animas

Trip details & logistics.

Due to the rugged nature of the trail, this trip operates as a private customized Safari and is hosted in a specially designed Jeep Rubicon that can seat up to 6. 

Available 6/15 –  9/15 (based on trail conditions)

“Absolutely our favorite experience in Ouray! Top notch customer service and great equipment. This was our Rocky Mountain high for sure!” M. Hadley, Grapevine, TX