ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Backpacking Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

McClatchy

Saltwater South Personality & Influencer

... guides and social-first content that inspires and informs. You'll collaborate with creative teams ... Dive into passion topics like Southern cuisine, golf, camping, backpacking, outdoor gear and ...

Telluride Academy

Field Instructor

Telluride, CO

$20/hr

They introduce students to adventure-based and creative activities including hiking, backpacking ... Serve as a role model, mentor, and guide for participants, helping them build confidence ...

Youth Dynamics

Mountain & Rock Manager

Leavenworth, WA · On-site

$42K - $54K/yr

Guiding of student, staff trips, and recons for development * Keeping current to industry standards ... See specific requirements for Rock, Mountain, and Backpacking * People skills - To manage and ...

Banner Health

POS15761, POS15762

Tucson, AZ · On-site

Well-Being Program, including healthy-habit building, fitness challenges, nutrition guides, on ... backpacking, rock climbing, world-class cycling, horseback riding, and championship golf courses.

Telluride Academy

Field Instructor

Telluride, CO · On-site

$20/hr

They introduce students to adventure-based and creative activities including hiking, backpacking ... Serve as a role model, mentor, and guide for participants, helping them build confidence ...

Youth Dynamics

Mountain & Rock Manager

Leavenworth, WA · On-site

$42K - $54K/yr

Guiding of student, staff trips, and recons for development * Keeping current to industry standards ... See specific requirements for Rock, Mountain, and Backpacking * People skills - To manage and ...

Telluride Academy

Field Instructor

Telluride, CO · On-site

They introduce students to adventure-based and creative activities including hiking, backpacking ... Serve as a role model, mentor, and guide for participants, helping them build confidence ...

Telluride Academy

Field Instructor

Telluride, CO · On-site

$20/hr

They introduce students to adventure-based and creative activities including hiking, backpacking ... Serve as a role model, mentor, and guide for participants, helping them build confidence ...

The Ranch at Rock Creek

Bartender

Philipsburg, MT · On-site

... Guide Five-Star Ranch. Forbes Five-Star property, we have spent the last 15 years expanding the ... backpacking in the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness. From horseback riding and archery to skiing at ...

Matchstick

Associate Pastor

Denver, CO

$30 - $36/hr

... guiding others toward deeper faith and connection. The Position: New Denver Church is seeking a ... Plan and lead key community events including men's retreats, backpacking trips, contemplative ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsBackpacking Guide Jobs

Backpacking Guide information

See salary details

$7

$19

$39

How much do backpacking guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for backpacking guide in the United States is $19.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $19.95 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 as a backpacking guide?

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.

More about Backpacking Guide jobs
What cities are hiring for Backpacking Guide jobs? Cities with the most Backpacking Guide job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Backpacking Guide jobs? The most popular types of Backpacking Guide jobs are:
What states have the most Backpacking Guide jobs? States with the most job openings for Backpacking Guide jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Backpacking Guide jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Backpacking Guide jobs are:
Backpacking Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backpacking Guide job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,987 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Part-time Outdoor Programs Instructor

University of California San Francisco

San Francisco, CA

Part-time

Re-posted 22 hours ago

University Of California San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Provides instruction, leadership and assistance while acting as a guide on non-credited outdoor recreational activities that includes camping, hiking, backpacking, sea kayaking and stand up paddle boarding to primarily UCSF students and staff as well as the general public with participants of all ages. Demonstrate excellent outdoor program customer service skills, attend staff meetings and in-house training as required. Annually, contribute to the assessment of the program. Remain current in both first aid and outdoor activity skills prescribed by supervisor. Behave in a professional manner, work as a team player and adhere to program policies. Note: This is a limited position and ends 1 year from date of hire, with potential to renew annually.
 

Required Qualifications

  • Working knowledge of program activity practices and procedures.
  • Verbal and written communication skills in the English language, active listening, dynamic flexibility, critical thinking, multi-task and time management skills.
  • Ability to exercise independent sound judgment and employ reasoning skills.
  • Client service minded, entrepreneurial spirit and creative thinking skills.
  • Ability to perform physically challenging work in the outdoors and in all weather conditions.
  • Commitment to continued learning about outdoor environments and a desire to teach and interpret the outdoor environment.
  • A willingness to be coached and openness to feedback.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

Preferred Qualifications

  • One year experience in working with people in a leadership environment.
  • Basic skills in computer programs relevant to job duties.
  • Knowledge of campus policies and procedures.
  • Strong swimmer (when applicable for programming).

License/Certification

  • Valid and current driver's license.
  • Current CPR and Standard First Aid or the ability to acquire within 1 month of hiring

What University Of California San Francisco employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply