Whitewater Raft Guide - Experienced

Arkansas Valley Adventures; Idaho Springs (CO); Hybrid; USD 17,684 - 25,186; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee living accommodations

Gear discounts at outdoor brands

Job summary

Arkansas Valley Adventures is seeking Whitewater Raft Guides for the 2026 season in Colorado, including locations in Idaho Springs and others. This role requires navigating commercial rafts, leading multiple trips daily, and providing an exceptional guest experience.

Ideal candidates are passionate about the outdoors, have experience with challenging whitewater, and are capable of working full-time or part-time. Competitive pay includes tipping opportunities and employee accommodations are available.

Qualifications

• Physically fit and enthusiastic about outdoor activities.
• Experience with class III to V whitewater navigation.
• Strong ability to work collaboratively in a team.

Responsibilities

• Navigate a commercial raft safely down the river.
• Lead 2–3 trips per day focused on guest experience.
• Maintain equipment and readiness for river rescue.

Skills

Physically capable and passionate about the outdoors

Experience navigating class III to class V whitewater

Strong teamwork skills

Customer care emphasis

CPR and First Aid training

Verified river miles

Job description

Job Overview

AVA Rafting & Zip Line is looking for Whitewater Raft Guides for the 2026 season (May–September) in Colorado. Locations include Moab, Utah; Kremmling, CO; Idaho Springs, CO; Buena Vista, CO.

Guides will lead safe, educational river trips for guests, providing interpretive information and performing swiftwater rescue techniques as needed. The role is full‑time or part‑time, with typical workdays around 9 hours and 2–3 trips per day.

Responsibilities

• Navigate a commercial raft safely down the river.
• Lead up to 2–3 trips per day while maintaining a great guest experience.
• Maintain equipment, gear, and the work area.
• Maintain situational awareness and readiness to perform river rescue maneuvers if needed.

Qualifications

• Physically capable and passionate about the outdoors.
• Experience navigating class III to class V whitewater.
• Strong teamwork skills and emphasis on customer care.
• Up‑to‑date CPR, First Aid, or other relevant training is a plus.
• Verified river miles and willingness to perform checkout runs for each stretch of river guided with AVA.
• Ability to work part‑time (~30 hours) or full‑time (~40 hours) and attend designated holidays (e.g., 4th of July).

Pay & Benefits

• Starting pay for experienced guides: $15.56 per hour.
• Additional tips typically add $10–$20 per hour.
• Guides with more experience eligible for further compensation.
• Employee living accommodations available at Buena Vista and Idaho Springs.
• Gear discounts at outdoor industry brands such as North Face, Yeti, Patagonia, and more.

EEO Statement

AVA Rafting & Zip Line is an equal‑opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.