Vail Jeep Tours: Why McAllister Gulch Is the Best Trail in Vail
(And Why You’ve Probably Never Heard of It)
If you’re planning a summer trip to Vail, Colorado, you’ve probably seen the usual list of activities: hiking, biking, gondola rides. But what if you could do something totally different — something wild, scenic, and off the beaten path? That’s where our Vail Jeep tours come in. At Native Jeeps, we offer a Private YOU-Drive Jeep Tour from Vail that takes you deep into the backcountry on one of Colorado’s most stunning and remote 4×4 trails: McAllister Gulch.
Why Choose a Jeep Tour Near Vail?
Vail is surrounded by incredible terrain — but most people only scratch the surface. The best mountain views and real off-road adventure happen far beyond the tourist zones.
Our full-day tour connects McAllister Gulch, Camp Hale, and a series of high-alpine bowls, ridgelines, and creeks — all part of one continuous loop. The scenery is spectacular, the route is remote, and best of all?
YOU drive the Jeep. Your guide leads from a separate vehicle — no ride-alongs, no strangers, and no crowds.
Explore the Vail Jeep Tour here.
11. Why McAllister Gulch Makes Our Vail Jeep Tours Wild, Remote, and Beautiful
Unlike the overrun Instagram-famous spots, McAllister Gulch offers true alpine solitude. You’ll cruise through open mountain bowls, narrow ridgelines, and thick forest with panoramic views of the Rockies.
It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped off the grid — but without needing to figure it out on your own.
2. It’s Part of a Full-Day Jeep Adventure from Vail
This isn’t a quick out-and-back trail. It’s a full-day 4×4 loop that also includes:
Camp Hale (WWII 10th Mountain Division site)
Resolution Mountain views
Creek crossings, picnic stops, and big mountain air
We provide a fully built Jeep Rubicon, and you follow our expert local guide through terrain that’s exciting but not intimidating.
3. It’s Adventurous, But Still Accessible
No off-roading experience? No problem. This trail is classified as moderate — which means it’s perfect for:
First-time drivers
Families and couples
Anyone looking for a real 4×4 adventure without rock crawling or danger
We’ll guide you the entire way. You’re in control, but never alone.
4. The Photo Ops Are Unreal
Expect:
Jaw-dropping ridge views
Jeep splash shots in alpine creeks
Wide-open meadows with nobody in sight
And yes, we stop often for photos, snacks, and to take in the view.
5. It’s Perfect for Families, Couples, or Small Groups
Since this is a private tour, it’s just your group in your Jeep. That makes it ideal for:
Family vacations
Birthday surprises or anniversaries
Small groups who want something personal and hands-on
Kids, grandparents, and even dogs are welcome.
6. Most Tour Companies Can’t Even Go Here
Here’s the real reason you’ve never heard of McAllister Gulch:
Most Jeep tour companies don’t have access.
McAllister Gulch is part of a protected Forest Service area, and Native Jeeps is one of the only outfitters with a permit to guide there. Big operators are often limited to public dirt roads — not this kind of deep backcountry trail.
So unless you’re a local with a serious 4×4 and a map, chances are… you’ve never been anywhere near it.
That’s what makes this Vail Jeep experience so special — and so rare.
Want to Experience It Yourself?
This isn’t a sightseeing van tour. It’s a private, fully immersive 4×4 adventure into the most scenic terrain near Vail — and YOU drive the Jeep.
Book Your Vail Jeep Tour Now
Spots are limited due to our Forest Service permit — reserve early!
