FAQ

  • We’re happy to offer on-site housing to our full-time, out-of-town team members for $400/month, conveniently deducted from your paycheck.

    Housing is limited and available only to our full-time, out-of-town staff. Employee cabins are studio-style and shared with one or more roommates. There are no single housing options.

    Each employee will have a twin bed and limited storage. Bedding is included, though many employees prefer to bring their own for comfort. Because the cabins are shared, we ask everyone to be respectful and keep their area tidy to maintain a comfortable living space for all.


    Room assignments
    are made ahead of time by management. If you are arriving with a friend and would like to be housed together, please let us know ahead of time. All housing is same sex unless otherwise agreed upon by management before arrival.

    Bathroom and laundry facilities are located a short walk from employee housing. These cabins do not have plumbing, so employees should bring their own towels and toiletries.

    Cooking facilities are also located a short walk away. The break area includes showers, a kitchen with cooking facilities and utensils, a fridge for food storage, and a washer and dryer. As with all shared spaces, employees are expected to help keep these areas clean and organized.


  • Work schedules at Piney can vary based on staffing needs and business levels. The number of hours and days off each week may shift throughout the season. No two weeks are the same. Therefore, we appreciate our employees’ flexibility.

    While we try our best to provide 40+ hours per week, hours are not guaranteed and may fluctuate. Depending on business demands, employees may sometimes be asked to take more than two days off in a week or to work a six-day week.

    Our work week runs from Monday to Sunday, and flexibility is key to keeping everything running smoothly during our busy season.

  • Your pay rate will depend on your role within the team. Because Piney is a dynamic place where everyone pitches in, you may work in different roles throughout the season. Don’t worry, you’ll always be paid according to the position you’re working in at that time.

    Employees are paid every two weeks. You’ll receive your first paycheck approximately three weeks after your start date (or slightly sooner if you begin in the middle of a pay period).

    You can choose to receive your pay by direct deposit or paper check — whichever works best for you.

  • All of our employees both part time and full time are entitled to the following:

    • Discounted meals - 50% off

    • Unlimited activities – based on availability

    • 30% off retail

    • Discounted lodging for immediate family

  • Your appearance at work helps create the first impression our guests have of Piney, so we take pride in maintaining a neat, clean, and professional look. Employees are expected to keep a well-groomed hairstyle and report to work in a clean, wrinkle-free uniform each day.

    Piney River Ranch provides partial uniforms for all job positions. You’ll be asked to bring certain personal items, such as specific shoes, pants, or shorts, to complete your uniform. You’ll receive full details about what to bring before your start date.

  • Be ready for a little bit of everything! At 9,350 feet, the weather can change in an instant. Sunshine one minute, rain or even snow the next.

    Our season runs from June through late September, and during that time, you’ll experience a full range of temperatures from warm, sunny days to chilly mountain nights.

    Layers are your best friend. Pack everything from shorts and t-shirts to pants, a warm jacket, and rain gear so you’re comfortable no matter what the day brings!

  • Getting ready for a season at Piney? Here’s what you’ll want to bring along to make the most of life in the mountains. The weather can shift from sunny to snowy in a single day, so pack for all conditions and think layers. A little preparation goes a long way toward making your stay comfortable, cozy, and fun.

    Piney Packing Checklist

    Clothing & Layers

    • T-shirts, long sleeves, and pants for layering

    • Shorts for warm days

    • Warm jacket, sweatshirt or fleece

    • Rain jacket or waterproof layer

    • Hat and gloves (yes… even in summer!)

    Footwear

    • Sturdy hiking shoes or boots

    • Comfortable casual shoes

    • Sandals or slip-ons

    Bedding & Comfort

    • Sleeping bag (recommended for extra warmth)

    • Pillow and extra blanket if desired

    • Personal bedding (sheets, if you prefer your own)

    Food & Essentials

    • Bottled water (especially before June 21st)

    • Non-perishable snacks and easy meals

    • Reusable water bottle

    • Any favorite coffee or drink mixes

    Personal Items

    • Towels and toiletries

    • Sunscreen and bug spray

    • Laundry detergent and bathing products

    • Small first aid kit or personal medications

    • Headlamp or flashlight

    Nice-to-Haves

    • Daypack or small backpack

    • Camp chair or hammock

    • Books, games, or crafts to enjoy during downtime

  • A car isn’t required to work at Piney, but it can definitely make life easier! Having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to head into town on days off or run errands when needed. If you don’t have a car, don’t worry, there’s usually someone heading into town each day. Piney’s all about community, and we look out for each other on and off the Ranch.

    The road to the Ranch is a 45-minute drive up a rough, unpaved dirt road. While high-clearance vehicles are recommended, cars with lower clearance can make the trip — it just might take a bit more time and care.

    Keep in mind that you’ll lose cell service along the way, and the drive can be bumpy, so plan accordingly and take it slow.

  • Piney is the perfect place to unplug, reconnect with nature, and enjoy life offline, the way it’s meant to be.

    Because Piney runs solely on generator power, cell service is very limited and often unavailable for most providers. Our satellite-based internet is also quite limited and much slower than you’re probably used to.

    Wi-Fi is available only in the employee breakroom, and we ask that everyone use it responsibly so it remains accessible for all. No streaming, please!

    We’re continuously working to improve our systems, but because of our remote mountain location and reliance on generator power, connectivity can be unpredictable.

  • Piney River Ranch:

    There is a mountain of fun activities to do on the ranch as well as in Vail village. Right at your door step is hiking, fishing, canoeing, stand up paddle boarding along with plenty go places to set up camp and relax.

    Outside Piney:

    Vail Village has a multitude of summer activities each year including free concerts and events. The villages is home to great restaurants and breweries as well as hiking, biking, frisbee golf.

Preparing for Piney...

Preparing for Piney...