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Backpacking Guide Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Star Guides Wilderness Therapy

Be Seen First

Outdoor Youth Mentor

Saint George, UT · On-site

$165 - $246/day

Star Guides is a wilderness therapy program that takes at-risk youth backpacking in Utah's desert backcountry. Our clients issues include ADD, depression, anxiety, sexual behavioral problems, and ...

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Backpacking Guide information

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$7

$17

$36

How much do backpacking guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for backpacking guide in Utah is $17.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.45 and $18.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Backpacking Guide do?

A Backpacking Guide leads individuals or groups on multi-day hiking trips in remote or wilderness areas. They ensure safety, provide navigation, teach outdoor skills, and share knowledge about local flora, fauna, and geography. Guides also assist with camp setup, meal preparation, and emergency response if needed. Their goal is to provide an enjoyable and educational outdoor experience while prioritizing safety and environmental responsibility.

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

Excelling as a Backpacking Guide requires comprehensive outdoor skills, strong navigation abilities, and first aid certifications, often supported by Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or Wilderness First Aid (WFA) credentials. Familiarity with GPS devices, topographic maps, satellite communicators, and permitting systems is typically necessary. Exceptional leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help guides foster positive group dynamics and respond to emergencies. These competencies are crucial for ensuring group safety, delivering a memorable experience, and successfully leading trips in remote environments.

What are some common challenges a Backpacking Guide may face on the job?

Backpacking Guides often encounter unexpected challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, route alterations, group members with varying fitness levels, and wildlife encounters. Adapting plans to keep groups safe while maintaining morale is a key part of the job. Guides must be prepared for long hours outdoors, carrying group gear, and providing support during emergencies. The role is both physically and mentally demanding, but it offers the reward of leading others in immersive outdoor experiences and honing a wide range of skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Backpacking Guide jobs in Utah? The most popular types of Backpacking Guide jobs in Utah are:
What are popular job titles related to Backpacking Guide jobs in Utah? For Backpacking Guide jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in Utah are hiring for Backpacking Guide jobs? Cities in Utah with the most Backpacking Guide job openings:
Backpacking Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backpacking Guide job openings in Utah as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,313 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

High Adventure - Backpacking & Rock Climbing Instructor

Girl Scouts of Utah

Salt Lake City, UT

$97/day

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description

High Adventure  - Backpacking & Rock Climbing Instructor

Camp Cloud Rim - Park City, Utah

Spend Your Summer Leading Outdoor Adventures in the Mountains!


Girl Scouts of Utah is hiring a High Adventure Backpacking & Rock Climbing Instructor for Camp Cloud Rim in beautiful Park City, Utah. If you are passionate about rock climbing, backpacking, hiking, and helping young people build confidence through outdoor experiences, this is the summer job for you.

This position plays a key role in creating safe, challenging, and memorable outdoor adventures for campers while supporting the mission of Girl Scouts of Utah.


Why Work at Camp Cloud Rim?

  • Work and live in the beautiful Wasatch Mountains
  • Lead climbing, hiking, and backpacking adventures
  • Gain valuable leadership and outdoor education experience
  • Make a lasting impact on the lives of youth
  • Build lifelong friendships with fellow camp staff
  • Room and board provided while camp is in session
  • Spend your summer outdoors instead of behind a desk

Position Summary

The High Adventure Coordinator is responsible for planning, coordinating, and leading the camp's rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking programs. This position ensures participants have safe, engaging, and age-appropriate outdoor experiences while maintaining compliance with Girl Scouts of the USA, American Camp Association, and local safety standards.

When not facilitating high-adventure activities, this position supports general camp programming and operations to help create a positive experience for all campers and staff.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Plan, develop, and lead rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking programs for campers ages 6-17.
  • Manage climbing areas, equipment, and safety procedures.
  • Teach outdoor skills, climbing techniques,      and backpacking fundamentals.
  • Conduct safety inspections and ensure proper use of equipment.
  • Supervise campers during high-adventure activities and off-site excursions.
  • Maintain accurate program and equipment records.
  • Follow all Girl Scouts of Utah, ACA, and applicable state and local safety standards.
  • Assist with camp-wide activities, special events, and evening programs.
  • Support general camp operations as needed.
  • Serve as a positive role model and mentor for campers and staff.

Requirements

Required

  • Must be at least 21 years old.
  • Ability to become an approved driver for Girl Scouts of Utah (clear driving record, valid driver's license, and proof of insurance).
  • Certification, documented training, or equivalent experience in rock climbing instruction and supervision.
  • Extensive experience hiking and backpacking in outdoor environments.
  • Current First Aid and CPR certification, or ability to obtain before employment.
  • Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and teaching skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with youth from diverse backgrounds.

Preferred

  • Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification.
  • Previous camp, guiding, outdoor recreation, or youth development experience.
  • Experience leading group outdoor adventures.

  Requirements for All Camp Staff

  • Pass a criminal background check, including sex offender registry and driving record checks.
  • Complete Youth Protection Training.
  • Obtain a Utah Food Handler Permit.
  • Follow all Girl Scouts of Utah policies and safety standards.
  • Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, teamwork, and a commitment to providing exceptional experiences for campers.

Physical Requirements

  • Lift and carry equipment and supplies weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Walk, hike, and work on steep, uneven terrain for extended periods.
  • Work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including rain, heat, and cold temperatures.
  • Live and work at elevations up to 9,200 feet.
  • Respond quickly and appropriately in emergencies.

Compensation

$97 per day

Eligible staff who complete the season and meet attendance requirements will receive an additional $10 per day completion bonus.


Additional Benefits

  • Room and board provided while camp is in session
  • Three meals daily plus snacks
  • Professional development and leadership experience
  • Opportunity to work in one of Utah's premier outdoor settings

Summer Camp Dates

June 11 - August 7, 2026


Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Girl Scouts of Utah embraces a pluralistic movement committed to understanding our similarities and differences, building relationships, and fostering a culture of respect, inclusion, and belonging. We believe we are stronger when we welcome diverse perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds.


Apply today and spend your summer inspiring the next generation of adventurers!



Apply