Do I need prior backcountry experience to join this course?

While the course is designed for skilled riders, prior backcountry experience is helpful but not mandatory as guides provide comprehensive instruction.

Is all the equipment provided?

Yes, all necessary backcountry gear, including skis or snowboards and safety equipment, are provided by Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center.

What is the group size for this adventure?

Groups are kept small to ensure personalized attention and safety with expert guides leading each outing.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations made more than 48 hours prior to the trip receive a full refund; less than 48 hours may incur fees.

Are meals or snacks included?

Participants should bring their own snacks and water; meals are not included but guides will allow breaks for nourishment.

What happens if weather conditions are unsafe?

The company continuously monitors conditions and may reschedule or modify the trip to ensure participant safety.

Snow: Intro to Backcountry Day 2 in Buena Vista, Colorado

Experience the ultimate backcountry skiing or snowboarding adventure with Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center’s Snow: Intro to Backcountry Day 2 in Buena Vista, Colorado. This 7.5-hour guided course is tailored for advanced riders eager to push beyond traditional resort boundaries and explore untouched powder in Colorado’s stunning mountain terrain. You’ll gain essential safety and navigation skills required for backcountry travel, including avalanche awareness, route planning, and how to handle black diamond terrain confidently. All equipment is provided, so you can focus solely on sharpening your technique and soaking in the majestic winter wilderness. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Collegiate Peaks, this adventure offers solitude away from crowded slopes and a deep connection with nature. Whether skiing or snowboarding, the day promises personal growth, new skills, and unforgettable powder runs. Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center’s expert guides ensure a safe, educational, and exhilarating experience for those serious about taking their winter sports to the next level. Don’t miss this chance to expand your mountainside horizons in one of Colorado’s best backcountry locations.

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.