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.
Our employees come from various backgrounds but share a common interest in serving those around them with authenticity and professionalism. Vista Verde Ranch is an equal opportunity employer and we make selections based on skills, experience, and dates of availability that align with our seasons. We do not discriminate based on gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religious or political beliefs, race, or economic status.

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 on-site staff housing, healthy and delicious meals, amenities such as internet, laundry, and linens all for a small fee. 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. The summer season our staff enjoy camping, paddle-boarding at nearby lakes, fly fishing the Elk River, rock climbing, and hiking and mountain biking the endless miles of trails.
Seasons of Operation
Vista Verde Ranch sits in a beautiful valley 25 miles north of Steamboat Springs, CO and provides on-site staff housing, healthy and delicious meals, amenities such as internet, laundry, and linens all for a small fee. 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. The summer season our staff enjoy camping, paddle-boarding at nearby lakes, fly fishing the Elk River, rock climbing, and hiking and mountain biking the endless miles of trails.
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
Personal Qualities: We are looking for upbeat and outgoing people with a high degree of integrity and character. Working at Vista Verde requires many long hours of hard work. To be successful, you must be willing to pitch in anywhere you may be needed. If you aren’t willing to do dishes, clean cabins, haul trash, pull weeds, shovel snow, or mop floors at some time, don’t bother to apply.
Age Requirements: Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, and preferably have at least one year of living away from home.
Alcohol: The legal drinking age in Colorado is 21. This applies at Vista Verde also. Staff of legal age may not drink before or while on duty. The use of any illegal drugs is forbidden at any time.
Appearance: Here at Vista Verde, we are a family vacation destination, and we aim to project a western image. Our staff are integral to this mission. Staff are expected to dress neatly with a western look or feel. We wear collared shirts always tucked in, belts in the belt loops, and closed-toe footwear. We’re not interested in seeing your t-shirts, cut-offs, or sandals. We should never see bare skin at your midriff, nor should your pants ride any lower than your waist. There are no skate parks near the ranch. No visible tattoos for anyone, and body piercings are limited to the ears of the women. For the men, we expect short to moderate haircuts and a clean-shaven look. If you feel you cannot adhere to these guidelines, we are not the place for you.
Compensation: Our compensation package consists of a base hourly rate and an equitable share of the tip pool. Because we believe every staff member contributes equally to the overall guest experience, the tip share for all staff members is also equal. There is no extra financial benefit for working in one position or another.
Facilities: In Sweetheart’s Parlor are two televisions with satellite service, VCR’s, and a DVD player. Elsewhere on the ranch are a basketball hoop, horseshoe pit, and mountain bikes for staff use. There is also a small weight room with exercise equipment available for staff use as well. Keep in mind that guests always have first choice on programming and equipment.
Housing: Housing is bunkhouse style. Unfortunately, we don’t have any housing suitable for married couples, nor is it possible to have any private housing. It is imperative you respect the space and belongings of your roommates. Bed linens, pillows, and towels are provided. Storage space is very limited, so please pack appropriately. We will supply a suggested gear list to new employees.
Laundry: Laundry facilities are available at no charge to staff. Laundry detergent is provided. Guest laundry facilities are strictly off-limits for staff use.
Personal Vehicles: Vista Verde Ranch is located approximately 25 miles from Steamboat Springs and Steamboat Resorts. Staff are welcome to bring a vehicle to the ranch, and about half our staff do just that. However, vehicles must be parked in designated staff parking areas, and special arrangements need to be made for trailers.
Pets: Pets are not allowed.
Ranch Equipment and Horses: Ranch equipment (vehicles, snowmobiles, tools, etc.) and horses are strictly off limits for personal use. Staff are welcome to join guest rides on their time off, provided we have enough space in the ride, and the riding ability of the staff member matches or exceeds that of our guests.
Telephones/Communication: We currently provide free long distance phone service for staff. There is one telephone line dedicated to staff use, and there is wireless internet access. Business and guest telephone lines and computers are strictly off-limits. Due to our secluded location, cell phone coverage is poor at the ranch.
Tobacco: We ask our staff to refrain from the use of tobacco products. Our aim is to have a professional and family friendly environment. Since the majority of our guests are very recreational and health conscientious ? we desire that our staff model this too.
Equal Opportunity: Vista Verde Ranch is an equal opportunity employer and equal opportunity service provider.

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.
Winter Kid Supervisors
Kid Supervisors lead both trail rides and snow based activities for our younger guests ages 6-17. The kids program in the winter runs from mid-December through the holidays, and then again from mid-February until we close late-March. 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.
- 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.
Winter Kid Supervisors
Kid Supervisors lead both trail rides and snow based activities for our younger guests ages 6-17. The kids program in the winter runs from mid-December through the holidays, and then again from mid-February until we close late-March. 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.
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.
