MV
Mary Elysee Velasco
Jul 17, 2026
This was one of the best decisions we made in Ouray. My husband and I have been hiking/camping across Colorado all week, and we wanted to give our legs a break -- without missing out on some great views. Not only did we have an incredible tour, Mr. Gregg was incredibly accommodating, knowledgeable, hospitable, and kind throughout the whole process!
Not only did he accommodate us in such short notice (we called around dinner time the night before a 9 am tour), but he called back to suggest a full day tour vs. a half day tour (no regrets!) with a smaller group, where we got to enjoy four times as many sights with a more personalized experience. :) We joined Ms. Mary and Mr. Leroy, who were excellent birders! Not only did we learn so much about the history of San Juan Mountains and Uncompahgre from Mr. Gregg, but Ms. Mary and Mr. Leroy taught us so much about nature, as well. (Plus, they were all amazing photographers) My husband and I were totally blessed with so much knowledge, beautiful sights, and a unique experience!
As a group, we got to decide where to go -- not only did we crawl through Corkscrew Pass and marveled at Red Mountain and rolling green hills and streams, but we got to enjoy lunch in Silverton (Handlebars was a restaurant my husband and I considered the day before but didn't get a chance to go to...so funny how that worked out!) and we traversed up to Clear Lake, the first trip up there Mr. Gregg did that season. That alone was worth it! Everywhere we went, you could smell the alpine (Christmas in July!), feel the cool mist, and see cute chipmunks, pika, marmots, and wildlife scampering around. And we all had fun riding out, even in the rain. If anything, that just added to the experience. (Think 4D rides at Disney.) We felt very safe the entire way, and Mr. Gregg was courteous to other drivers, finding safe ways for others to pass.
You'll see a few tour options across Ouray -- they'll advertise they're the "oldest this," "safest that," but San Juan Scenic Jeep Tours is THE REAL deal -- the actual oldest, safety-rated, family-owned, humble/doesn't-really-advertise business. And for a greater value price-wise per person that we've seen. Don't miss out on 'em!
So grateful for Mr. Gregg and the beautiful lands we overlanded! A beautiful adventure, memory, and answered prayer we'll never forget. Hopefully one day when we have a family of our own, we'll come back with our kids. : ) Thanks, San Juan Scenic Jeep Tours! - Mae L.