Horseback Riding Guide

Shenandoahcareers; Stanley (VA); On-site; USD 18,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

Shenandoah National Park is seeking a seasonal Horseback Riding Guide for the Skyland Resort area in Stanley, VA. You will lead guided horseback rides, inspect equipment, and ensure guest safety while delivering engaging riding instruction and trail etiquette.

Ideal candidates have 3+ years in a stable environment, strong leadership and communication skills, and CPR/First Aid certification is preferred or required by policy.

Qualifications

• Previous horseback riding experience and knowledge of horse behavior.
• Experience leading trail rides or guiding horseback riding activities preferred.
• Strong communication, leadership, and customer service skills.
• Ability to provide clear safety instructions and supervise groups of varying experience levels.
• Relevant equestrian training or certifications preferred.
• Ability to mount and dismount horses and assist guests as needed.
• Ability to walk, stand, bend, lift, and perform routine horse care duties.

Responsibilities

• Lead guided horseback riding tours and activities in accordance with established safety procedures.
• Provide guests with instructions on horse handling, mounting, dismounting, riding techniques, and trail etiquette.
• Assess guests’ riding abilities and help match riders with appropriate horses when authorized.
• Monitor guests, horses, and trail conditions throughout each ride.
• Ensure guests wear appropriate safety equipment, including properly fitted riding helmets.
• Inspect horses, saddles, bridles, and other riding equipment before and after each ride.
• Assist with grooming, saddling, bridling, feeding, watering, and general horse care as assigned.
• Maintain control of the group and respond appropriately to emergencies, injuries, and unexpected trail conditions.

Skills

Horseback riding experience

Leadership

Customer service

Communication skills

Safety instruction delivery

Emergency response

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Where Your Next Career Adventure Begins.

Home to 200,000 acres of forested peaks, cascading waterfalls, and the iconic Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park is more than a place to work — it’s a place to belong. As ExplorUS takes the helm of park operations, we’re building a team of passionate people who want to share the beauty of this park with millions of visitors each year. Whether you’re guiding guests through mountain lodges, serving up hospitality in our restaurants, or keeping the wonder of Shenandoah running behind the scenes, you’ll be part of a team dedicated to protecting and celebrating one of America’s most treasured landscapes. Explore our open positions and start your journey with us.

Position: Horseback Riding Guide

Location: Stanley, VA

Job Id: 209

# of Openings: 1

Imagine spending your workday surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, cascading waterfalls, and over 500 miles of scenic trails. A career at Shenandoah Hospitality offers more than just a job—it provides the opportunity to be part of a team dedicated to preserving one of America's most beautiful national treasures while creating unforgettable experiences for millions of visitors each year. Whether you're interested in hospitality, food service, retail, maintenance, or guest services, you'll gain valuable skills, build lifelong friendships, and enjoy the unique experience of living and working in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you're looking for meaningful work, adventure, and memories that will last a lifetime, Shenandoah National Park is the perfect place to begin your next journey.

This is a seasonal position with an estimated start date of 5/1/2027, and an anticipated end date of 11/1/2027 and is located at the Skyland Resort.

Hourly rate of pay: $16.00

Job Title: Horseback Riding Guide
Reports To: Guest Services Manager / Location Manager
Department: Recreation / Guest Services

Summary of Position: The Horseback Riding Guide is responsible for leading and supervising guided horseback riding activities while ensuring the safety, comfort, and enjoyment of guests. This position provides instruction on proper riding techniques, monitors horse and rider behavior, and ensures horses are handled and cared for appropriately throughout each activity.

Responsibilities:

• Lead guided horseback riding tours and activities in accordance with established safety procedures.
• Provide guests with instructions on horse handling, mounting, dismounting, riding techniques, and trail etiquette.
• Assess guests’ riding abilities and help match riders with appropriate horses when authorized.
• Monitor guests, horses, and trail conditions throughout each ride.
• Ensure guests wear appropriate safety equipment, including properly fitted riding helmets.
• Inspect horses, saddles, bridles, and other riding equipment before and after each ride.
• Assist with grooming, saddling, bridling, feeding, watering, and general horse care as assigned.
• Recognize signs of horse distress, injury, or unusual behavior and promptly report concerns to management.
• Maintain control of the group and respond appropriately to emergencies, injuries, and unexpected trail conditions.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with guests, coworkers, and management.
• Ensure riding areas, trails, and equipment are maintained in a clean and safe condition.
• Follow established animal welfare standards, operating procedures, and applicable safety requirements.
• Complete required activity logs, equipment inspections, incident reports, and other documentation.
• Other duties as requested.

Position Requirements:

• Previous horseback riding experience and knowledge of horse behavior and care required.
• Experience leading trail rides or guiding horseback riding activities preferred.
• Strong communication, leadership, and customer service skills.
• Ability to provide clear safety instructions and supervise groups of varying experience levels.
• Ability to recognize unsafe riding conditions and respond calmly to emergencies.
• Current first aid and CPR certification preferred or required by company policy.
• Relevant equestrian training or certifications preferred.
• Ability to mount and dismount horses and assist guests as needed.
• Ability to walk, stand, bend, lift, and perform routine horse care duties.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and on uneven terrain.
• Ability to perform essential job duties safely around horses and other animals.
• First Aid / CPR certification is helpful.

Knowledge and Experience:

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent

Experience: Three (3) or more years in a stable environment

Formal equestrian training or riding instruction experience preferred

Resort/National Park experience preferred

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status and all other status protected by law.

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