Backpacking Adventure Leader-Camp Chief Ouray

Turn Your Love for Adventure Into a Life-Changing Summer Backpacking / Adventure Leader

Camp Chief Ouray | YMCA of the Rockies

Do you thrive on trail miles, camp stoves, and meaningful conversations under the stars? Are you passionate about helping young people grow through outdoor adventure?

Camp Chief Ouray is seeking Backpacking/Adventure Leaders to guide campers through unforgettable experiences that build confidence, competence, and leadership—both in the backcountry and beyond.

What You’ll Do

As a Backpacking/Adventure Leader, you’ll co-lead small groups of up to 10 campers on immersive outdoor programs lasting one or two weeks. Adventures may include:

Backpacking & hiking

Mountain biking

Horse packing (outfitted)

Rock climbing (outfitted)

You’ll provide 24-hour care, supervision, and mentorship, creating a safe, supportive environment where campers can challenge themselves, learn outdoor skills, and grow as leaders.

Why Work at Camp Chief Ouray?

At YMCA of the Rockies, our mission is at the heart of everything we do—putting Christian principles into practice while building healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. Our staff are role models who bring our core values to life:

Caring • Honesty • Respect • Responsibility • Faith

You won’t just lead trips—you’ll help create moments that change lives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and facilitate outdoor adventure programs with co-leaders and vendors

Teach outdoor skills, safety protocols, and leadership principles

Foster strong relationships and a positive, inclusive camp culture

• Maintain group living spaces, equipment, and program materials

• Track camper progress and provide meaningful written and verbal feedback

• Collaborate with leadership on goals, evaluations, and program improvement

Uphold YMCA safety standards and driving requirements

We’re Looking for Leaders Who:

Are 21+ years old with experience working with youth

Have a background in outdoor education, leadership, or backcountry travel

Can work collaboratively and manage time effectively

Are physically able to hike rugged terrain and lift 50 lbs

Hold or are willing to obtain Wilderness First Aid & CPR/First Aid

Can meet YMCA and Colorado DOT driving requirements

Are committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism

(Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus!)

This Is More Than a Job

It’s a summer of purpose, challenge, growth, and connection—spent doing meaningful work in the mountains with an incredible community.

Ready to lead the adventure? Apply today and help campers discover what they’re capable of at Camp Chief Ouray.