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Outdoor Jobs in Colorado

27 open listings · updated Sep 13, 2026

Median posted pay $16.96/hr (14 listings) · 74% include housing · Pay report

Colorado has the most guest ranches of any state and a large rafting and fishing guide industry. Guest ranches near Granby, Estes Park, Steamboat Springs, Gunnison, Durango and the Front Range hire wranglers, cooks, kids’ counselors and housekeeping from May through September. Rafting outfitters on the Arkansas, Colorado, Clear Creek, Animas and Poudre hire hundreds of day-trip guides each summer. Fly fishing outfitters on the Frying Pan, Roaring Fork, Colorado, Gunnison, South Platte and Blue hire guides for spring through fall. Hunting outfitters hire guides and packers for September to November elk and deer seasons. Ranches on the Western Slope and the eastern plains hire hands and cowboys.

More About Outdoor Jobs in Colorado

Colorado licenses river guides through Colorado Parks and Wildlife river outfitter regulations, which require a set number of training hours and first aid. Hunting outfitters register with the Department of Regulatory Agencies. Fishing guides work under outfitter permits.

Rents in Colorado mountain towns are very high, so housing is a major part of any Colorado listing. Most guest ranches and many rafting and fishing outfitters provide it.

Questions About Outdoor Jobs in Colorado

How many outdoor jobs in Colorado are open right now?

27 listings are live on WildWork as of September 13, 2026. 21 state their pay and 20 include housing.

What do outdoor jobs in Colorado pay?

The median posted rate is $16.96/hr across 14 current listings that state pay in that unit, with posted rates from $15.16/hr to $30/hr. These are advertised rates; tips, overtime and room and board are extra where the listing says so.

Do outdoor jobs in Colorado come with housing?

74% of current listings say the employer provides housing, free or at a charge, and 26% include meals. Each listing shows whether housing is included and what it costs when the employer says.

How do I become a rafting guide in Colorado?

Complete an outfitter’s guide school in April or May, meet the state training hours under Colorado Parks and Wildlife rules, and hold first aid and CPR. Arkansas River outfitters in Buena Vista, Salida and Cañon City hire the most first-year guides.

Do Colorado guest ranches provide housing?

Yes. Staff housing and meals are standard at Colorado guest ranches, which is why monthly wages of $1,800 to $2,800 are workable in towns where a room rents for $1,200 or more.

When is Colorado hunting season for guide jobs?

Archery elk opens in early September, muzzleloader mid-September, and four rifle seasons run from mid-October into November. Outfitters hire guides in June and July.

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