Is this course suitable for beginners?

The session is best for riders with basic bike skills but Lee can tailor instruction to help newer riders progress safely.

What is the group size for sessions?

Sessions typically feature small groups to ensure personalized coaching and rider feedback.

Do I need to bring my own bike?

Yes, participants should bring a mountain bike suited for pump tracks and jump features.

What should I wear for the session?

Wear comfortable, durable clothing and full protective gear including a helmet and gloves.

Are helmets provided?

Helmets must be brought by participants; a full-face helmet is strongly recommended.

Can I book private lessons with Lee McCormack?

Private coaching is sometimes available—contact Valmont Bike Park directly to inquire about scheduling.

Bike Park Skills Session with Pro Instructor in Buena Vista | Workshop | Bike Tour

Buena Vista, Colorado, set against the rugged Sawatch Range and the Arkansas River corridor, is a powerhouse for mountain biking enthusiasts craving skill-building and adrenaline. At the heart of this vibrant scene stands the Valmont Bike Park, an acclaimed facility hosting the Guest Course: Bike Park Skills Session with renowned instructor Lee McCormack. This session transforms the way riders approach trails, combining expert technique coaching with the raw energy of Colorado’s mountain biking culture.

Lee McCormack, a celebrated figure in the mountain biking community, brings years of professional riding and teaching acumen to this immersive skill session. Held at 23850 US Hwy 285, the course welcomes riders of various levels aiming to sharpen their abilities and gain confidence navigating technical terrain. This experience isn’t just a lesson; it’s a personalized journey through progressive skill development, focusing on balance, body positioning, braking control, and cornering strategy tailored to the dynamic flow of Valmont’s unique trails and features.

What sets this course apart is Lee’s engaging instructional style within a premier park known for thoughtfully designed pump tracks, jumps, and flow trails. Each feature at Valmont contributes a natural stage for honing agility and precision. Riders walk away equipped not only with improved technique but also with a deeper understanding of trail dynamics and bike handling under Colorado’s intense mountain conditions.

Buena Vista serves as the ideal backdrop—its distinct blend of high desert flora, Ponderosa pines, and expansive skies amplifies the joy of movement and adventure. Beyond biking, the region is laden with opportunities for hiking, river rafting, and wildlife viewing, making it a hub for outdoor enthusiasts year-round. The Guest Course offers an unparalleled gateway to master mountain biking skills in a community revered for its outdoor ethos and stunning landscapes.

About Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center

Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center is a Colorado-based river outfitter and paddlesports school operating on the Arkansas River near Salida. The company offers guided rafting trips through Brown’s Canyon and lower Arkansas River sections, stand-up paddle tours on Turquoise Lake, inflatable kayak sessions, and private instruction for kayak and packraft paddlers. Trips range from family-friendly half-day floats and Salida town runs to advanced whitewater excursions through The Numbers and Lower Brown’s Canyon. Full-day options include riverside lunch and complimentary wetsuit rental; private lessons include equipment and tailored instruction from ACA-certified guides. Safety is a priority: instructors are trained in swiftwater rescue, CPR, and ACA/industry-standard paddling techniques, and trips use modern safety gear and sanitation practices appropriate for Colorado river conditions. The outfitter emphasizes small groups and private bookings to match skill level, offering custom group days for families, corporate teams, and adventure-focused paddlers.

Local knowledge of water flows, seasonal conditions, and Brown’s Canyon National Monument access points ensures efficient logistics and superior river experiences. Guests benefit from clear pre-trip communication, flexible booking options, and on-water skills development for beginners through advanced paddlers. Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center supports sustainable use of river corridors and leaves-no-trace practices while partnering with local breweries and vendors for river lunches. Whether seeking beginner instruction, a calm family float, or an adrenaline-filled Class III paddle, Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center provides reliable, professionally guided outdoor adventures tailored to the Arkansas River corridor. Booking is available online with flexible cancellation and group discount options for families and organizations. seasonally operated.