Meet Justin Clark | Small Business Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Justin Clark and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Justin, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I grew up in Ouray, CO, a small mountain town with roots in mining and tourism. As a fifth generation born and raised here, I love how I grew up. I walked to school. I worked at businesses in town. I was constantly outdoors and exploring the mountains. Everyone knew everyone, like a big family. Because of my upbringing, I knew Ouray was exactly where I wanted to stay. Being a local, I knew I had the love and support to start a business in this town. And because of the knowledge and passion for the mountains that I gained growing up here, I knew I needed to share it with others. And by that our business was born – Altitude Adventures Side x Side Rentals.
In a lot of ways, this town and business is who I am. I am fun, adventurous, passionate, and hardworking. I enjoy making connections with both tourists and locals. I share my love for this town daily. And I put my best foot forward at all times, giving back to the family and community that helped to raise me.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Abby and I started Altitude Adventures Side x Side Rentals this past year. We rent out side-by-sides in the warmer months to explore world renowned, off-road trails such as Imogene Pass, Yankee Boy Basin, Corkscrew and so many more. We do all the hard work so customers just get to have fun! We educate them on trail etiquette, wash and trailer the machines, and give expert advice so they have the perfect experience. Being that it was our first season open last year, there were many learning experiences. First off, we had to get our name out there to get business. Second off, we had to work every day from May through October with maybe 3 days off in total. Lastly, we had to learn things like finances, taxes, licensing, and so much more. We overcame these challenges a day at a time. We tried our best, sought out advice from local mentors, and relied on each other for support. A major thing we learned is that when starting your own business, there is much more work and responsibility than you first think. For one, you are your own boss so being persistent is so important. Additionally, you have the safety of renters as well as the concern of environmental impact that you constantly have to take into account. However, when you are as passionate about something as I am, it is all worth it!
If I could tell anyone anything, it would be to believe in yourself! Dream big and work towards your goals because the feeling and reward of achieving them is like no other.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well it definitely depends if they visit in summer or winter. However summer is my favorite so let’s base it off of that. First off, we would take a side-by-side out from Altitude Adventures to explore the waterfalls on Yankee Boy Basin, the historic mines off of Camp Bird Road, and the amazing summit on Imogene Pass! The Via Ferrata, Perimeter Trail, and Box Canyon Falls are also “can’t miss” activities. After a long day, we would stop to soak in the Ouray Hot Springs or the vapor caves at Weisbaden.
The restaurants in Ouray are amazing! We would definitely stop at Goldbelt Bar and Grill to sit out on the dog-friendly patio for the best pizza, drinks, and view. For an upscale, delicious dinner, we would go to Brickhouse 737. And for a memorable, western atmosphere, we couldn’t miss out on going to The Outlaw.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would not be who I am today without my mom and my family. My mom is the hardest working person I know! She is my role model, mentor, and the one who inspires me everyday. I would also like to give tons of credit to my girlfriend, Abby Romero. She is my business partner, my love, and my best friend who I grow with every day.

Website: www.altitudeadventuresouray.com

Instagram: @altitudeadventuresouray

Facebook: @altitudeadventuresouray