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Backcountry Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ANASAZI Foundation

TrailWalker -

Mesa, AZ · On-site

Salary: 15.15/hour + OT TrailWalker (Field Staff) Wilderness Program Overview As a TrailWalker, you will live and work in the backcountry for 8-day rotations, guiding and supporting a small group ...

Aramark

$25/hr

Load, balance, and secure pack stock for extended backcountry tripsLead pack strings over steep ... Must have extensive experience guiding in the same or related environment * Sit, stand and walk for ...

Rocky Talkie

Creative Lead

Denver, CO

We are committed to making easy-to-use, durable, high-performance products for the backcountry and ... Guide the development of visual storytelling that reflects real use in demanding outdoor ...

Rocky Talkie

Creative Lead

Denver, CO · On-site

We are committed to making easy-to-use, durable, high-performance products for the backcountry and ... Guide the development of visual storytelling that reflects real use in demanding outdoor ...

Rocky Talkie

Creative Lead

Denver, CO · On-site

We are committed to making easy-to-use, durable, high-performance products for the backcountry and ... Guide the development of visual storytelling that reflects real use in demanding outdoor ...

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF DENVER

TASC Staff

Elbert, CO

$12.25 - $16/hr

As a guide on TASC trips , you will assist in leading a 10-day trip (6 - 7 days of backpacking and ... You will build campers' backcountry camping, survival, and personal skills, bond the group of ...

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF DENVER

TASC Staff

Elbert, CO · On-site

$2K - $2K/wk

As a guide on TASC trips , you will assist in leading a 10-day trip (6 - 7 days of backpacking and ... You will build campers' backcountry camping, survival, and personal skills, bond the group of ...

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Backcountry Guide information

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How much do backcountry guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for backcountry guide in the United States is $17.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Backcountry Guide job?

A Backcountry Guide leads outdoor adventures in remote, rugged areas, ensuring safety while providing an enriching experience. They may guide activities like hiking, skiing, or camping, often teaching survival and navigation skills. Responsibilities include route planning, risk assessment, and emergency response. Strong outdoor skills, first aid certification, and knowledge of local terrain are essential. Many guides work for tour companies, outdoor education programs, or as independent contractors.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Backcountry Guide?

Backcountry Guides are responsible for planning routes, leading groups through remote areas, monitoring participants’ safety, and interpreting local ecology and terrain. Their day often includes tasks such as setting up camps, cooking in outdoor conditions, and performing basic first aid if needed. Guides also play a key role in fostering group cohesion and ensuring adherence to responsible backcountry practices. Most trips require adapting to changing weather and trail conditions, making flexibility and quick problem-solving essential for daily success. You can expect to work closely with both guests and fellow guides to provide a memorable and safe outdoor adventure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Backcountry Guide position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backcountry Guide, you need expert knowledge of wilderness navigation, survival techniques, and outdoor safety, often backed by certifications such as Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or Leave No Trace. Familiarity with GPS devices, topographic maps, and communication tools like satellite phones is essential for safe and effective trip management. Exceptional leadership, interpersonal communication, and decision-making skills help guides manage group dynamics and respond calmly to emergencies. These competencies are vital to ensure the safety, enjoyment, and educational value of each guided backcountry experience.

More about Backcountry Guide jobs
What cities are hiring for Backcountry Guide jobs? Cities with the most Backcountry Guide job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Backcountry Guide jobs? The most popular types of Backcountry Guide jobs are:
What states have the most Backcountry Guide jobs? States with the most job openings for Backcountry Guide jobs include:
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Backcountry Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backcountry Guide job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 98% Full Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,919 per year, or $17.3 per hour.
TrailWalker -

TrailWalker -

ANASAZI Foundation

Mesa, AZ • On-site

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Salary: 15.15/hour + OT

TrailWalker (Field Staff) Wilderness Program


Overview


As a TrailWalker, you will live and work in the backcountry for 8-day rotations, guiding and supporting a small group (band) of youth and young adults on The Trail.


You will play a critical role in ensuring the safety, well-being, and personal growth of those in our care while hiking through rugged Arizona terrain. TrailWalkers serve as mentors, role models, and steady support for individuals navigating challenges such as substance use, emotional and behavioral struggles, and family difficulties.

This is not just a jobit is an immersive, purpose-driven experience that challenges you physically, emotionally, and personally.


What Youll Do

  • Guide and support clients through daily wilderness living and personal growth experiences
  • Ensure the physical safety and emotional well-being of all group members
  • Hike up to 10 miles per day carrying a ~40 lb pack
  • Teach and model:
    • Wilderness survival skills
    • Healthy communication and relationships
    • Personal responsibility and leadership
  • Maintain communication with field leadership (RidgeWalker) multiple times daily
  • Collaborate weekly with therapists regarding client progress
  • Teach and apply ANASAZI curriculum and principles


Schedule & Lifestyle

  • 8 days on the trail / 6 days off
  • Live outdoors full-time during your rotation
  • Work in all weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, etc.)
  • Minimal technologyfully unplugged environment


Qualifications

  • 21+ years old
  • High school diploma or higher
  • Ability to pass:
    • Drug screen
    • Background check & Arizona fingerprint clearance
  • Physically able to:
    • Hike long distances daily
    • Carry a 40 lb pack in rugged terrain
  • Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills
  • Dependable, punctual, and adaptable
  • Willingness to grow personally and professionally
  • Commitment of at least 6 months


Our Standard (What Makes This Different)

At ANASAZI, we believe who you are matters more than what you do.

We ask our staff to live by high personal standards because the youth we serve are deeply influenced by authenticity. We strive to model the same growth, accountability, and integrity we invite from them.

As part of this commitment, staff are expected to abstain from substances such as alcohol, tobacco, and drugs, and to maintain a lifestyle aligned with our values.


Training Process

Training includes three parts:


Part I Backcountry Training (56 days)

  • Learn the ANASAZI Way
  • Wilderness skills, safety, and medical training
  • Fully immersive field experience
  • Unpaid (food and gear provided)


Part II Office Training (23 days)

  • Policies, procedures, and program structure
  • Unpaid (housing/food not provided)


Part III Field Week (Paid)

  • Join a team on the trail with clients
  • Apply everything youve learned in real-time


Hiring Process

  1. Submit application
  2. Initial call (typically within a few weeks of training)
  3. Interview (virtual or in-person)
  4. Invitation to training (or notice of non-selection)
  5. Conditional employment after Part I & II
  6. Final hiring decision after Part III


Compensation & Benefits

  • Starting pay: $15.15/hour + overtime (OT)
  • Average: ~$210+ per day (with overtime)
  • Food provided while on the trail
  • Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification
  • Initial gear provided
  • Potential insurance benefits after 6 months (if seasonal position transitions to regular full-time)
  • Access to pro-deals (outdoor industry discounts)


Important Considerations

  • Upfront costs (approx. $200) may include:
    • Physical exam
    • TB test
    • Immunizations
    • Fingerprint clearance
  • Some medications are not permitted on the trail
    • Contact our nurse with any questions before applying


Why This Role Matters

Being a TrailWalker is one of the most challenging and rewarding roles you can step into.

You will:

  • Build meaningful relationships
  • Develop leadership and resilience
  • Be part of life-changing experiencesfor others and yourself


Ready to Apply?

If youre looking for something real, meaningful, and transformative, we invite you to apply and begin the journey.