Explore Colorado’s backcountry with expert guides in Silverthorne. Learn safety and skiing techniques while enjoying fresh powder in an uncrowded winter paradise.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a good level of cardiovascular fitness and endurance to handle sustained uphill travel and skiing through varied terrain.
Wildlife
History
Summit County was historically a hub for miners during Colorado’s silver boom, with many trails tracing old mining routes.
Conservation
Local guides practice Leave No Trace principles to protect sensitive wild areas and maintain the backcountry experience for future visitors.
Colorado Adventure Guides
Explore Colorado’s backcountry with expert guides in Silverthorne. Learn safety and skiing techniques while enjoying fresh powder in an uncrowded winter paradise.
Colorado Adventure Guides is a Silverthorne, Colorado–based outfitter offering guided outdoor adventures across Summit County and the Upper Colorado River corridor. The company organizes half-day and multi-day experiences including beginner Clear Creek rafting, overnight Colorado River rafting with riverside or Rancho Del Rio campground stays, Boots to Boats multi-day packages, guided backcountry skiing from Carner's Cabin, and youth mountain biking camp.
Safety and education are central: programs include AIARE Avalanche Rescue and AIARE Level 1 courses, Wilderness First Aid training, and ORTOVOX safety sessions focused on avalanche danger and tour planning. A guided mentorship day supports individualized skill building in trip planning, route selection, and snow-safety techniques. Guides lead trips on Clear Creek, the Colorado River, and lift-accessed terrain at Winter Park Ski Resort where applicable. Overnight trips provide guided camping, meals prepared by guides, and wilderness navigation through canyon and high-country scenery. Family-friendly options and beginner trips accommodate newcomers, while technical courses and multi-day hut trips support progression for experienced participants. Youth programming emphasizes skill development, trail safety, and confidence building on local mountain-bike terrain. Based in Silverthorne, the outfitter serves Denver-area guests seeking accessible rafting and snow-safety training within easy driving distance. Bookings typically specify trip length, group size, and chosen itinerary to match ability and goals. Colorado Adventure Guides presents a broad mix of recreation and education in the Colorado outdoors, combining guided river runs, backcountry instruction, and residential hut experiences to create memorable, skill-building adventures.
Reservations are available year-round with flexible group and date options online.
Base Location
Silverthorne, CO
Gateway to Summit County adventures
Tours Offered
11 Experiences
Rafting, courses, biking, skiing
Near Denver
45 min to Clear Creek
Accessible day trips from Denver
Safety Training
AIARE & WFA Offered
Avalanche and wilderness medicine courses
Reserve rafting trips, overnight river trips, avalanche courses, or youth camps — dates fill quickly.
Check Avalanche Conditions Daily
Always review current avalanche forecasts before heading out and never ski without a beacon, probe, and shovel.
Dress in Moisture-Wicking Layers
Wear breathable base layers and waterproof outerwear to stay dry and comfortable during your tour.
Stay Hydrated Even in Cold
Carry water and drink regularly to avoid dehydration despite the cold temperatures.
Communicate With Your Guide
Maintain open communication about your pacing and comfort to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Avalanche Beacon
Critical safety device for locating individuals buried in avalanches.
winter
Backcountry Ski Boots
Designed for uphill mobility and downhill performance in backcountry conditions.
winter
Insulated Layer
Keeps you warm during rest periods and in cold temperatures.
winter
Ski Poles with Adjustable Length
Helps with balance and propulsion, adjustable for uphill and downhill sections.
winter