What age is required to rent backcountry snow equipment?

Rentals are available for responsible explorers aged 18 and older.

Do I need prior experience with avalanche safety?

Yes, basic knowledge of avalanche safety is strongly recommended before renting gear.

How long can I rent the equipment for?

Equipment is rented on a 24-hour basis, allowing flexible timing for your adventure.

Is the gear inspected and maintained regularly?

All rental equipment is professionally inspected and maintained to ensure safety and reliability.

Can I get instruction or orientation on using the gear?

Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center provides guidance and basic orientation upon rental, but in-depth training should be obtained separately.

Are there any backcountry restrictions or permits needed?

Some areas may require permits; always check local regulations and trailhead requirements before heading out.

Backcountry Snow Equipment Rental in Buena Vista, CO | Rentals | Winter Activities

Discover the thrill of exploring Colorado’s pristine backcountry snow with Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center’s 24-hour backcountry snow equipment rentals. Located in Buena Vista, this service is designed for responsible adventurers aged 18 and up who want to venture beyond groomed trails and experience untouched snow terrain. Whether you're planning a winter hike, ski tour, or snowshoe trek, RMOC provides top-quality gear rental options that prepare you for the rugged mountain environment. With the right equipment in hand, you can safely navigate powder-filled slopes, frozen ridges, and quiet alpine valleys. Buena Vista offers access to some of the most beautiful and less crowded backcountry areas in the Rockies, making it an ideal base for your snowy expedition. Before you head out, ensure you know how to use avalanche safety tools and have checked weather forecasts to maximize your safety. This rental experience prioritizes both adventure and responsibility, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to embrace the wilderness with confidence and respect.

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.