Working at Vista Verde Ranch
No matter what the job title, we as a staff make sure the overall daily ranch operation goes off without a hinge! We are a dynamic and intentional team that learn guest’s names, engage in meaningful conversation, and facilitate interactions that lead to life change – be it from a horse’s back or during service in the dining room.
We Invite You To Breathe It In. It’s Vista Verde.

Life at Vista Verde Ranch
On-site Housing, Quality Meals, Outdoor Access, and More!
Vista Verde Ranch sits in a beautiful valley 25 miles north of Steamboat Springs, CO and provides free on-site staff housing and amenities such as internet, laundry, and linens. Staff also enjoy healthy and delicious meals (for a small deduction) prepared by our kitchen staff and eat with our guests, which fosters deeper guest relationships. Working at the ranch offers a simple lifestyle, and the beautiful location and unbeatable access to wilderness is priceless. Our staff take advantage of all that Steamboat Springs and the rural Routt County has to offer year-round! During the winter season, our staff enjoy exploring the 1.1 million acres of National Forest and Zirkel Wilderness Area on backcountry skis and snowshoes, as well as alpine skiing and snowboarding at the world-class Steamboat Resort. During the summer season, our staff enjoy camping, paddle-boarding at nearby lakes, fly fishing the Elk River, rock climbing, hiking, and mountain biking the endless miles of trails.


Seasons of Operation
These dates include our Staff Orientation Week where our team comes together for a week to be onboarded and learn responsibilities, build the relational foundation of the staff, and gear up for the arrival of guests!
Summer (full season)
- Mid-May through end of November. Preference is given to those applicants able to show up mid-May and commit through the end of August and beyond.
Summer (short season)
- Mid-May through end of August
Winter (full season)
- Early December through end of March. Because we are in the hospitality business, we work when most others vacation. Therefore, all winter applicants must be available to work over the holiday season.
Spring Mud Season
- This is our time to catch up on projects around the ranch (and take our own vacations)!
What Do You Want to Know?
General Job Information
Because we live and work in the same space, we are committed to maintaining a community based on traditional values, authentic relationships, and healthy living. As a staff, many of our young guests view us as role models, and older guests admire our maturity and professionalism. We take seriously the opportunity to exemplify hard work, kindness, gratitude, and an “others first” attitude.
Our community values are something we feel strongly about, and a clean lifestyle gives our staff the best opportunity to form authentic relationships, grow, and pursue healthy habits. Culture is the single most important factor in our staff’s and guest’s experience, and we are committed to maintaining a positive and healthy staff while avoiding drama – and that which causes it – at all costs.
Our housing is communal and gender-based, with RAs who have a passion for mentoring and coordinating community living. Although we love animals, we have plenty already at the ranch, so we do not allow staff to bring pets. Our buildings and residences are smoke-free, and smoking is limited to remote parts of the ranch. We strongly encourage staff to be tobacco-free. We do not discriminate based on gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religious or political beliefs, marital status, race, or economic status.
Our dress code follows “clean, discreet, and western” guidelines, and we ask all tattoos to be covered, piercings to be minimal, and preferably none. We do provide a staff shirt, aprons, chef coats, a baseball cap or beanie, and discounts at the store. Our staff can also get access to pro-deals.
As one VVR Team, we communicate and utilize staff to their strengths and often cross-train or share in duties. Outside the specific department duties, staff will fill in where needed, day to day and week to week. We are often swiss-army-knives, and jump in where needed to make sure the guest experience happens! Don’t be surprised if you see our General Manager take a trail ride or jump into DishPit. More commonly, our guides, wranglers, ranch hands, and kid supervisors are working housekeeping turnover days and dailies, and filling in on weekend dishwashing shifts. We know that when one person or department wins, we all win and vice versa.
There is a code of conduct that all of us who work at the ranch subscribe to, and we expect those who come to work at Vista Verde to agree and abide by these rules.
The following are not tolerated and are grounds for dismissal:
- Irresponsible behavior regarding alcohol (drunkenness, parties, etc.)
- Underage drinking (21 is the drinking age in Colorado)
- Illegal drug use, or abuse of prescription drugs
- Marijuana Free (while the use of marijuana is legal in the state of Colorado for individuals over the age of 21, we are a marijuana free ranch and staff. We do perform pre-employment drug testing and randoms throughout the season.
Understandably, our community may not be a “fit” for everyone, and we simply ask that you consider our policies before applying to live and work here. If we sound like the type of community you would like to be a part of, please continue on to our application!

What Kind of Job are You Looking For?

Management
Running an operation like Vista Verde requires a lot of really talented leaders, and from time to time we have opportunities open up for long term professional roles.

Manager in Training
If you are looking to grow your leadership skills and build your resume, a role as an assistant manager or leader in our community is a great way to prepare yourself for the next step in your professional journey.

Seasonal
Looking for a great experience for a season or two? Vista Verde is a great place to figure out where you are going in your life, develop your professional skills, and learn to live in community.
Job Opportunities at Vista Verde Ranch
Office
The office staff creates a seamless experience for the guest from the discovery of Vista Verde to post stay. They manage inquiries, book reservations, check guests in and out, collect pertinent information and distribute it to other departments, organize guest transportation, book ranch activities as well as outfitter activities, organize special events, and are the overall link between the guests and the staff.
Ranch Operations
Ranch Hands oversee general ranch maintenance and transportation. Ranch hands must be 21 years or older with a valid driver’s license and clean driving record. The position can be physically demanding in both summer and winter weather as duties include snow removal, landscaping and grounds keeping, pool and hot tub care, vehicle care, helping guests with luggage, and other daily and seasonal tasks.
Guides
VVR guides need to be knowledgeable in the outdoors, physically fit, and provide a safe and compelling trip while being attentive to the guest’s needs and requests. Guides are expected to jump into other guiding roles as needed to support all guiding out of the Adventure Center. Candidates must be 21 or older, hold a current up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification, and have a clean driving record.
Wranglers
It is essential that wranglers have considerable equine experience, as they are responsible for the safety of both our guests and our animals. Wranglers prepare for and lead trail rides, offer riding instruction, and are responsible for the care and well-being of our herd of 100 horses. Applicants need strong interpersonal skills, and must be willing to work with both adults and children. Candidates must be 21 or older and hold current up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification.
Chefs
Our kitchen is stacked with talented professional chefs, but we are always looking for culinary pros to join our team and be a part of creating an amazing culinary experience for our guests.
Prep Cooks
Our kitchen is renowned for producing high quality, gourmet fare. Prep cooks help in all aspects of kitchen operation, including preparation of food for meals, simple baking, and light cleaning. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to gain experience in the culinary arts, or someone who simply enjoys cooking.
Dishwashing
Dishwashers are responsible for cleaning dishes to ensure that the kitchen has a steady supply of clean equipment to produce meals for guests and staff. In addition to washing dishes, this position will help the kitchen prep food and maintain staff room cleanliness. This role is a great place to start if there is interest in the culinary arts as the dishwasher will be working alongside highly skilled chefs and a tight knit team.
Guest Services
For those looking to explore working at a dude ranch these are great positions to start in and gain experience in hospitality. This position may include serving meals in the dining room, wine service, housekeeping, maintenance, and even gardening. There is a lot to be done here at Vista Verde to take care of our guests, and we’re looking for people with a passion for serving others who can have fun while doing this work! This position is often seasonal, but can become a year round opportunity for those who show interest in taking the job to the next level.
Ranch Operations
Ranch Hands oversee general ranch maintenance and transportation. Ranch hands must be 21 years or older with a valid driver’s license and clean driving record. The position can be physically demanding in both summer and winter weather as duties include snow removal, landscaping and grounds keeping, pool and hot tub care, vehicle care, helping guests with luggage, and other daily and seasonal tasks.
Guest Services
For those looking to explore working at a dude ranch these are great positions to start in and gain experience in hospitality. This position may include serving meals in the dining room, wine service, housekeeping, maintenance, and even gardening. There is a lot to be done here at Vista Verde to take care of our guests, and we’re looking for people with a passion for serving others who can have fun while doing this work!
Guides
VVR guides need to be knowledgeable in the outdoors, physically fit, and provide a safe and compelling trip while being attentive to the guest’s needs and requests. Guides are expected to jump into other guiding roles as needed to support all guiding out of the Adventure Center. Candidates must be 21 or older, hold a current up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification, and have a clean driving record.
Wranglers
It is essential that wranglers have considerable equine experience, as they are responsible for the safety of both our guests and our animals. Wranglers prepare for and lead trail rides, offer riding instruction, and are responsible for the care and well-being of our herd of 100 horses. Applicants need strong interpersonal skills, and must be willing to work with both adults and children. Candidates must be 21 or older and hold current up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification.
Chefs
Our kitchen is stacked with talented professional chefs, but we are always looking for culinary pros to join our team and be a part of creating an amazing culinary experience for our guests.
Prep Cooks
Our kitchen is renowned for producing high quality, gourmet fare. Prep cooks help in all aspects of kitchen operation, including preparation of food for meals, simple baking, and light cleaning. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to gain experience in the culinary arts, or someone who simply enjoys cooking.
Dishwashing
Dishwashers are responsible for cleaning dishes to ensure that the kitchen has a steady supply of clean equipment to produce meals for guests and staff. In addition to washing dishes, this position will help the kitchen prep food and maintain staff room cleanliness. This role is a great place to start if there is interest in the culinary arts as the dishwasher will be working alongside highly skilled chefs and a tight knit team.
Kid Supervisors
Kid Supervisors lead both trail rides and other activities for our younger guests ages 6-17. Experience with both children and horses is strongly preferred, as is an individual 21 or older with a valid driver’s license and clean driving record. The position requires high-energy people who can keep up with the kids and provide a fun and safe learning environment. Candidates must have up-to-date CPR & First Aid certification.
Mountain Biking
Mountain bike guides need a strong fitness level, experience and comfort with mountain biking on technical terrain, and basic bike mechanical understanding. Guides will teach guests the basics of mountain biking as well as guide experienced riders on technical single track. Guides will also guide other activities such as hiking and fly fishing as needed.
Hiking
Hiking guides need a strong fitness level, experience and comfort with navigating backcountry terrain, and comfort in understanding weather risks. Guides will also guide other activities such as mountain biking and fly fishing as needed.
Fly Fishing
Fishing guides must be knowledgeable in fly fishing and casting techniques, know how to read water and understand the intricacies of finding and catching trout. Guides may be teaching basic casting skills to beginners or guiding experienced anglers on private water, and everything in between. Fishing guides may assist in other guided activities such as mountain biking or hiking as needed.
Summer Kid Supervisors
Kid Supervisors lead both trail rides and other activities for our younger guests ages 6-17. In the summer the kids program is split into kids, tweens, and teen and runs from the end of May to late-August. Experience with both children and horses is strongly preferred, as is an individual 21 or older with a valid driver’s license and clean driving record. The position requires high-energy people who can keep up with the kids and provide a fun and safe learning environment. Candidates must have up-to-date CPR & First Aid certification.
Wrangler
It is essential that wranglers have considerable equine experience, as they are responsible for the safety of both our guests and our animals. Wranglers prepare for and lead trail rides, offer riding instruction, and are responsible for the care and well-being of our herd of 100 horses. Applicants need strong interpersonal skills, and must be willing to work with both adults and children. Candidates must be 21 or older and hold current up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification.
Backcountry Ski and Snowshoe
Ski and snowshoe guides must have a high level of fitness, a basic knowledge of the Nordic ski sports, and experience in the backcountry. Guides will find themselves breaking trail through deep snow and navigating varying snow conditions with experienced skiers as well as teaching the basic skills of Nordic skiing to novice skiers. Guides will also support other activities such as snow tubing.
Ice Fishing
Ice fishing guides must be knowledgeable in ice fishing techniques and ice safety. Guides will spend some days guiding other activities such as snowshoeing, skiing, or snow tubing.
Snowmobiling
Snowmobile guides are responsible for keeping guests safe while giving them a unique backcountry adventure. Experience with snow machine handling and navigating backcountry terrain and snow conditions is a must for snowmobile guides. Guides will help with other guided activities as needed.
Wrangler
It is essential that wranglers have considerable equine experience, as they are responsible for the safety of both our guests and our animals. Wranglers prepare for and lead short trail rides, offer riding instruction in the indoor arena, drive the one-horse sleigh and the team, and are responsible for the care and well-being of our herd of 100 horses. Applicants need strong interpersonal skills, and must be willing to work with both adults and children. Candidates must be 21 or older and hold current up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification.
- Year Round
-
Office
The office staff creates a seamless experience for the guest from the discovery of Vista Verde to post stay. They manage inquiries, book reservations, check guests in and out, collect pertinent information and distribute it to other departments, organize guest transportation, book ranch activities as well as outfitter activities, organize special events, and are the overall link between the guests and the staff.
Ranch Operations
Ranch Hands oversee general ranch maintenance and transportation. Ranch hands must be 21 years or older with a valid driver’s license and clean driving record. The position can be physically demanding in both summer and winter weather as duties include snow removal, landscaping and grounds keeping, pool and hot tub care, vehicle care, helping guests with luggage, and other daily and seasonal tasks.
Guides
VVR guides need to be knowledgeable in the outdoors, physically fit, and provide a safe and compelling trip while being attentive to the guest’s needs and requests. Guides are expected to jump into other guiding roles as needed to support all guiding out of the Adventure Center. Candidates must be 21 or older, hold a current up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification, and have a clean driving record.
Wranglers
It is essential that wranglers have considerable equine experience, as they are responsible for the safety of both our guests and our animals. Wranglers prepare for and lead trail rides, offer riding instruction, and are responsible for the care and well-being of our herd of 100 horses. Applicants need strong interpersonal skills, and must be willing to work with both adults and children. Candidates must be 21 or older and hold current up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification.
Chefs
Our kitchen is stacked with talented professional chefs, but we are always looking for culinary pros to join our team and be a part of creating an amazing culinary experience for our guests.
Prep Cooks
Our kitchen is renowned for producing high quality, gourmet fare. Prep cooks help in all aspects of kitchen operation, including preparation of food for meals, simple baking, and light cleaning. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to gain experience in the culinary arts, or someone who simply enjoys cooking.
Dishwashing
Dishwashers are responsible for cleaning dishes to ensure that the kitchen has a steady supply of clean equipment to produce meals for guests and staff. In addition to washing dishes, this position will help the kitchen prep food and maintain staff room cleanliness. This role is a great place to start if there is interest in the culinary arts as the dishwasher will be working alongside highly skilled chefs and a tight knit team.
Guest Services
For those looking to explore working at a dude ranch these are great positions to start in and gain experience in hospitality. This position may include serving meals in the dining room, wine service, housekeeping, maintenance, and even gardening. There is a lot to be done here at Vista Verde to take care of our guests, and we’re looking for people with a passion for serving others who can have fun while doing this work! This position is often seasonal, but can become a year round opportunity for those who show interest in taking the job to the next level.
- Seasonal
-
Ranch Operations
Ranch Hands oversee general ranch maintenance and transportation. Ranch hands must be 21 years or older with a valid driver’s license and clean driving record. The position can be physically demanding in both summer and winter weather as duties include snow removal, landscaping and grounds keeping, pool and hot tub care, vehicle care, helping guests with luggage, and other daily and seasonal tasks.
Guest Services
For those looking to explore working at a dude ranch these are great positions to start in and gain experience in hospitality. This position may include serving meals in the dining room, wine service, housekeeping, maintenance, and even gardening. There is a lot to be done here at Vista Verde to take care of our guests, and we’re looking for people with a passion for serving others who can have fun while doing this work!
Guides
VVR guides need to be knowledgeable in the outdoors, physically fit, and provide a safe and compelling trip while being attentive to the guest’s needs and requests. Guides are expected to jump into other guiding roles as needed to support all guiding out of the Adventure Center. Candidates must be 21 or older, hold a current up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification, and have a clean driving record.
Wranglers
It is essential that wranglers have considerable equine experience, as they are responsible for the safety of both our guests and our animals. Wranglers prepare for and lead trail rides, offer riding instruction, and are responsible for the care and well-being of our herd of 100 horses. Applicants need strong interpersonal skills, and must be willing to work with both adults and children. Candidates must be 21 or older and hold current up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification.
Chefs
Our kitchen is stacked with talented professional chefs, but we are always looking for culinary pros to join our team and be a part of creating an amazing culinary experience for our guests.
Prep Cooks
Our kitchen is renowned for producing high quality, gourmet fare. Prep cooks help in all aspects of kitchen operation, including preparation of food for meals, simple baking, and light cleaning. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to gain experience in the culinary arts, or someone who simply enjoys cooking.
Dishwashing
Dishwashers are responsible for cleaning dishes to ensure that the kitchen has a steady supply of clean equipment to produce meals for guests and staff. In addition to washing dishes, this position will help the kitchen prep food and maintain staff room cleanliness. This role is a great place to start if there is interest in the culinary arts as the dishwasher will be working alongside highly skilled chefs and a tight knit team.
Kid Supervisors
Kid Supervisors lead both trail rides and other activities for our younger guests ages 6-17. Experience with both children and horses is strongly preferred, as is an individual 21 or older with a valid driver’s license and clean driving record. The position requires high-energy people who can keep up with the kids and provide a fun and safe learning environment. Candidates must have up-to-date CPR & First Aid certification.
- Summer-Guides
-
Mountain Biking
Mountain bike guides need a strong fitness level, experience and comfort with mountain biking on technical terrain, and basic bike mechanical understanding. Guides will teach guests the basics of mountain biking as well as guide experienced riders on technical single track. Guides will also guide other activities such as hiking and fly fishing as needed.
Hiking
Hiking guides need a strong fitness level, experience and comfort with navigating backcountry terrain, and comfort in understanding weather risks. Guides will also guide other activities such as mountain biking and fly fishing as needed.
Fly Fishing
Fishing guides must be knowledgeable in fly fishing and casting techniques, know how to read water and understand the intricacies of finding and catching trout. Guides may be teaching basic casting skills to beginners or guiding experienced anglers on private water, and everything in between. Fishing guides may assist in other guided activities such as mountain biking or hiking as needed.
Summer Kid Supervisors
Kid Supervisors lead both trail rides and other activities for our younger guests ages 6-17. In the summer the kids program is split into kids, tweens, and teen and runs from the end of May to late-August. Experience with both children and horses is strongly preferred, as is an individual 21 or older with a valid driver’s license and clean driving record. The position requires high-energy people who can keep up with the kids and provide a fun and safe learning environment. Candidates must have up-to-date CPR & First Aid certification.
Wrangler
It is essential that wranglers have considerable equine experience, as they are responsible for the safety of both our guests and our animals. Wranglers prepare for and lead trail rides, offer riding instruction, and are responsible for the care and well-being of our herd of 100 horses. Applicants need strong interpersonal skills, and must be willing to work with both adults and children. Candidates must be 21 or older and hold current up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification.
- Winter-Guides
-
Backcountry Ski and Snowshoe
Ski and snowshoe guides must have a high level of fitness, a basic knowledge of the Nordic ski sports, and experience in the backcountry. Guides will find themselves breaking trail through deep snow and navigating varying snow conditions with experienced skiers as well as teaching the basic skills of Nordic skiing to novice skiers. Guides will also support other activities such as snow tubing.
Ice Fishing
Ice fishing guides must be knowledgeable in ice fishing techniques and ice safety. Guides will spend some days guiding other activities such as snowshoeing, skiing, or snow tubing.
Snowmobiling
Snowmobile guides are responsible for keeping guests safe while giving them a unique backcountry adventure. Experience with snow machine handling and navigating backcountry terrain and snow conditions is a must for snowmobile guides. Guides will help with other guided activities as needed.
Wrangler
It is essential that wranglers have considerable equine experience, as they are responsible for the safety of both our guests and our animals. Wranglers prepare for and lead short trail rides, offer riding instruction in the indoor arena, drive the one-horse sleigh and the team, and are responsible for the care and well-being of our herd of 100 horses. Applicants need strong interpersonal skills, and must be willing to work with both adults and children. Candidates must be 21 or older and hold current up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification.
Elk River Kipper Scholarship
One of the driving forces at Vista Verde is the mission to create an employment experience that allows for growth and a positive lifelong impact for our staff. A fierce supporter of this mission has been Charlie Cammer, who worked at the ranch from 1999-2022. During his time at Vista Verde, Charlie was committed to helping the many young staff he mentored learn and grow into leaders who serve their community, are environmentally aware, and are paying it forward out in the world. He firmly believed in investing and providing guidance to the future generations so they would carry these lessons with them long after they’ve left the ranch. In 2019, in honor of his 20th anniversary at VVR, the Elk River Kipper Scholarship was created, and each Spring one recipient is selected to receive up to $5,000. In Charlie’s retirement the scholarship continues as a tribute to his legacy of dedication, mentorship, and care for the young staff who call the ranch home. Learn more here.


