ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Backcountry Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Eleven Experience

Snow Safety Manager

Crested Butte, CO · On-site

$6.0K/mo

At each destination our guided backcountry adventures await guests of all ages and skill levels. Our lodges, chalets, and beach houses combine five-star accommodations with incredible cuisine. To our ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBackcountry JobsBackcountry Jobs in Colorado

Backcountry information

See Colorado salary details

$55

$72

$103

How much do backcountry jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for backcountry in Colorado is $72.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57.64 and $95.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a backcountry?

A Backcountry job typically involves working in remote outdoor settings, such as national parks, wilderness areas, or ski resorts. These jobs can include roles in guiding, retail, gear maintenance, customer service, or logistics for outdoor enthusiasts. Employees often have a passion for adventure, outdoor sports, and sustainability. Depending on the role, responsibilities may include assisting customers with gear selection, leading outdoor excursions, or ensuring safe backcountry experiences. Many positions are seasonal and require knowledge of outdoor equipment, survival skills, or environmental stewardship.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the backcountry position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Backcountry Specialist role, you need strong outdoor skills, wilderness navigation expertise, and often first aid or wilderness survival certifications. Technical tools such as GPS devices, topographic maps, satellite phones, and safety equipment are commonly used on the job. Excellent communication, adaptability, and teamwork skills help you interact with clients, coworkers, and handle changing conditions in remote environments. These skills are vital for ensuring safety, providing excellent client experiences, and successfully managing the unpredictable demands of backcountry work.

What are some common challenges faced by backcountry specialists on the job?

Backcountry Specialists often encounter unpredictable weather conditions, remote terrain, and the need to make quick, effective decisions to ensure safety. Navigating logistical issues such as limited communication, resource management, and responding to medical emergencies are also frequent challenges. Developing strong problem-solving abilities and remaining calm under pressure are crucial for overcoming these obstacles. Team collaboration and thorough preparation help ensure a successful and safe experience for both staff and clients.

What are the most commonly searched types of Backcountry jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Backcountry jobs in Colorado are:

What are popular job titles related to Backcountry jobs in Colorado?

For Backcountry jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Backcountry jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Backcountry jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Backcountry jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Backcountry job openings:

Backcountry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backcountry job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 10% Temporary. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,773 per year, or $72 per hour.

Backcountry Wilderness Area Equine Program Instructor

Highlands Ranch Community Association

Highlands Ranch, CO

$16 - $24/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

JOB TITLE: Backcountry Wilderness Area Equine Program Instructor FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
General Statement of Duties: Responsible for providing safe and engaging horseback riding lessons and equine education programs. This role includes ensuring the safety of guests, providing care for HRCA owned horses and barn yard animals, as well as communicating and scheduling riding lessons with students.
Supervision Received: Works under the supervision of the Backcountry Wilderness Area Equine Program Manager.
Supervision Exercised: None

JOB DESCRIPTION
Examples of Duties: The following examples of duties are intended to be illustrative only and are not intended to be all inclusive.
  • Plan and instruct horseback riding lessons and equine programs for children (ages 3-17) and adults.
  • Oversee the daily well-being of horses, including feeding, watering, basic care, and routine maintenance.
  • Maintain and organize tack and other equine equipment.
  • Keep staging and corral areas clean and organized.
  • Safely move horses to and from designated pastures, ensuring all fences and gates are properly secured.
  • Provide excellent customer service by educating participants about program rules and regulations.
  • Maintain client records and coordinate lesson schedules.
  • Collaborate with other instructors to ensure seamless equine programming.
  • Obtain signed liability waivers from all participants.
  • Monitor participant behavior to ensure discipline and safety.
  • Work collaboratively with Backcountry Wilderness Area staff to achieve program goals.
  • Respond effectively to emergencies and maintain a positive attitude in all situations.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Physical and Environmental Standards:
  • Work is performed outdoors, often in adverse weather conditions, including heat, humidity, sun, rain, snow, wind, cold and extreme temperatures.
  • Must be able to traverse uneven terrain and stand for extended periods.
  • Ability to walk, sit, crouch, bend, kneel, stoop, reach, push, pull, and lift or carry objects up to 60 pounds unassisted.
  • Vision requirements include near and far acuity.
  • Manual dexterity is needed for typing, writing, using a calculator, and operating a phone.
  • Effective communication is essential, including the ability to talk and hear clearly via phone and face-to-face interactions.

QUALIFICATIONS
Required Knowledge, Skills amp; Abilities:
  • Minimum age of 18 years.
  • Thorough knowledge of horsemanship.
  • Preferred experience in teaching horseback riding.
  • Interest in working with children and adapting lessons for diverse learners.
  • Excellent customer service and conflict resolution skills.
  • Strong work ethic, motivation, and ability to work independently.
  • Current First Aid/CPR certification or ability to obtain certification prior to the first day of employment.

Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening.
Benefits: Benefits for part time employees include Paid Sick Leave, EAP (Employee Assistance Program), Tuition Reimbursement, Employee Discounts (30%) for Programs and Events, Referral Program, Recreation Center usage.
401k plus company match and Health Insurance, Telehealth and Flex Plans after one year if the minimum hours requirement is determined.
Education: Completion of High School preferred.
Experience: Minimum of 3 years of horse care and riding experience, with a preference for prior teaching experience in horseback riding.
Submittal Deadline: 8/27/2026
EOE

Apply