Wow; what an amazing trip, V!!! Between the location, the lodge (which is totally drool worthy) and two private guides/instructors, it sounds like a dream come true. I'm so glad you've rediscovered your love of mountain biking.
I have to admit that riding out west really intimidates me, as much as I'd like to try it. We obviously have nothing like that type of riding here in Indiana. The elevation alone terrifies me. Add in that type of exposure, and I'm pretty sure I'd have a massive panic attack. But I think going out west for a clinic would be the way to approach it, at least for me. I keep eyeing clinics in Fruita, for instance, as something I'd like us to do sometime.
Live with intention. Walk to the edge. Listen hard. Practice wellness. Play with abandon. Laugh. Choose with no regret. Continue to learn. Appreciate your friends. Do what you love. Live as if this is all there is.
--Mary Anne Radmacher