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Summer Backpacking Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

... the summer. • Assist with evening cabin supervision • Attend and participate in Staff ... implement backpacking programs as needed. * Work directly with the Director of Program in a ...

They introduce students to adventure-based and creative activities including hiking, backpacking ... the summer. * Organize and manage weekly field reports, manage program logistics, and oversee ...

They introduce students to adventure-based and creative activities including hiking, backpacking ... the summer. * Organize and manage weekly field reports, manage program logistics, and oversee ...

They introduce students to adventure-based and creative activities including hiking, backpacking ... the summer. * Organize and manage weekly field reports, manage program logistics, and oversee ...

Summer Backpacking information

See Colorado salary details

$8

$16

$23

How much do summer backpacking jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer backpacking in Colorado is $16.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $18.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a summer backpacking job?

A summer backpacking job typically involves leading or assisting outdoor trips, such as hiking or camping excursions, for groups during the summer months. These jobs are often found at summer camps, outdoor adventure programs, or travel companies, and require staff to guide participants, ensure safety, and teach outdoor skills. Employees spend extended periods outdoors, carrying gear, and may be responsible for trip planning, cooking, and group management. It's an ideal role for those who enjoy nature, teamwork, and helping others experience the outdoors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a summer backpacking guide?

To thrive as a Summer Backpacking Guide, you need strong outdoor survival skills, first aid certification, and extensive knowledge of navigation and wilderness safety. Familiarity with GPS devices, map and compass use, and basic outdoor gear is typically required, along with certifications like Wilderness First Responder (WFR). Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help guides manage group dynamics and respond to emergencies. These abilities are crucial for ensuring group safety, delivering positive experiences, and handling unexpected situations in remote environments.

What are some common challenges faced by guides leading summer backpacking trips, and how can they be managed?

Guides leading summer backpacking trips often face challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, group dynamics, and ensuring the safety and well-being of participants. Managing these challenges involves thorough planning, effective communication, and adaptability. Guides must be prepared to modify routes if necessary, address group concerns promptly, and monitor for signs of dehydration, fatigue, or injury. Building a supportive team environment helps everyone enjoy a safe and rewarding outdoor experience.

What is the difference between Summer Backpacking vs Summer Camp Counselor?

AspectSummer BackpackingSummer Camp Counselor
Required CredentialsMinimal; outdoor skills beneficialCPR/First Aid certification often required
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, remote, travel-focusedCampgrounds, recreational facilities, group settings
Employer & IndustryOutdoor adventure companies, travel agenciesSummer camps, recreational organizations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Summer Backpacking involves traveling and exploring outdoors, often independently or in small groups, focusing on adventure and self-sufficiency. Summer Camp Counselors work at organized camps, supervising children and facilitating activities. While both roles are outdoor-oriented, backpacking emphasizes travel and exploration, whereas camp counseling centers on supervision and activity management in a camp setting.

What are popular job titles related to Summer Backpacking jobs in Colorado?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Summer Backpacking jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Summer Backpacking jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Summer Backpacking job openings:

Infographic showing various Summer Backpacking job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 34% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,743 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Recreation Coordinator

Estes Park, CO • On-site


Salvation Army
Non-Profits • 5 - 10K employees

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

598th of 781 rated non-profit organizations

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Recommended by parents


$450/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Recreation Coordinator
FLSA Status: Temp - FT - E
Reports to: Program Director
Rate of Pay: $450/ weekly
Closing Date: 1/31/2026
Benefits: Temporary; Full-Time, Non-Exempt employees are eligible for but not limited to the following:
  • Sick leave benefit - 1 day per month, 12 sick days per year (accrual and availability begins at hire; sick time accrual is pro-rated for part-time hours.)

GENERAL DUTIES:
• Attend and participate in evening programs and spiritual Recreation.
• Maintain a standard of cleanliness in personal grooming and in living quarters.
• Assist with the total camp clean-up at the end of each session and at the summer's end.
• Prepare and deliver the Recreation Coordinator camp brief at the end of the summer.
• Assist with evening cabin supervision
• Attend and participate in Staff Orientation.
• Attend and participate in all camp wide Recreation, campfires, staff meetings and staff devotions
• Assist with Camper check-in and check-out.
SPECIFIC DUTIES:
Safety and Supervision
• Supervise recreation during freetime and Arts and Crafts Coordinator.
• Attend and participate in evening programs and spiritual Recreation.
• Enforce, and abide by, all camp policies and procedures
• Responsible for the health and well-being of self and campers.
• Always maintain the utmost level of safety for staff and campers
• Practice and enforce all camp safety regulations and emergency procedures.
  • Maintain group/staff control at specialized group Recreation so that other support staff can focus on safety.

• Always ensure compliance with American Camping Association standards of safety and programmatic conduct.
• Coordinate and implement all program components relative to the daily schedule in a timely fashion.
• Attend relevant in-service trainings.
Weekly Responsibilities
• Meet weekly with senior leadership and communicate needs, program changes, and concerns related to staff and campers.
• Create and distribute activity schedules and staff assignments weekly.
• Plan and lead all sports during cabin activity times.
  • Support Cabin Leaders by organizing supplies for various sports Recreation. These may be run by you, Recreation specialists, or coordinated with Cabin Leader staff.
  • Sports field includes large turf soccer field with backstop, cover basketball court and sand volleyball.

• Maintain Archery Equipment as needed.
• Oversee Fishing areas as scheduled.
  • Assist in camper fishing programs by ensuring rods, reels and bait are accessible and working with campers and staff in their proper use.

• Plan and implement backpacking programs as needed.
  • Work directly with the Director of Program in a supporting role.

• Coordinate In-Service training for activity areas with the Director of Program.
• Plan rainy day Recreation and implement as needed with the Adventure Coordinator.
• Coordinate overnight campouts with the Adventure Coordinator.
  • Campouts will take place in the fort.
  • Gather needed supplies for cookout - coordinate what is needed at the beginning of the week with counselor and their cabin.

• Assist with planning of all campfire programs.
  • These may include messy games, skits, and songs for campers.

• Serve as an Recreation Specialist as needed.
  • Work in a variety of program areas to support cabins.
  • This may include archery, sports, etc. and will be determined by need and experience/comfort.
  • Attend all relevant in-services for areas trained.

• Perform all other duties and roles assigned.
  • Due to the nature of the camp program in session, you may be asked to assist in duties not directly related to this specific job description. This is necessary for the smooth operation of the camp. Staff members are expected to comply with all reasonable requests.

• Lastly and most important:
  • Remember to have fun!
  • Remember to ask for help because we are here for each other!
  • Remember that God is in control. God's love will be more evident in your actions than your words!
  • Remember that God loves you, and we love you!

Qualification and Education Requirements:
• Positive attitude and ability to take a leadership role.
• 21+ years of age preferred.
• Current First Aid and CPR certification (may be obtained on site).
• Experience and previous knowledge of camp Recreation.
• Preferably NASP or USA Archery Certification or equivalent.
• Ability to use positive behavior management techniques with campers and an ability to adapt to difficult situations with a sense of maturity and safety.
• Maintain a high standard of personal and communal living and behaviors.
• Be supportive of The Salvation Army's mission. Ability to reflect and model the high standards of our organization as one of the world's most distinguished human services charitable organizations.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to walk, stand, bend, squat, climb, kneel, and twist on an intermittent or continuous basis. Ability to grasp, push, pull, and reach overhead. Ability to operate telephone. Ability to lift 25 pounds. Ability to access and produce information from the computer. Ability to understand written information. Qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodation. A request to modify or adjust these requirements may be made to your supervisor and HR. The Salvation Army would attempt to satisfy requests if the accommodation needed is reasonable and presents no undue hardship.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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About Salvation Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US


What Salvation Army employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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