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Hiking Guide Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Global Treks and Adventures

$17 - $21.50/hr

Develop the first hiking trails magazine with short stories capturing the culture and environment of Iceland. * A naturalist guide and cultural guide website/web-app to Reykjavik and south Iceland.

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How much do hiking guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for hiking guide in Virginia is $19.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.61 and $19.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hiking guide?

A Hiking Guide is a professional who leads individuals or groups on outdoor hiking adventures. They provide navigation, ensure safety, and educate participants about the environment, wildlife, and local history. Guides assess trail conditions, assist with gear, and offer first aid if needed. Their goal is to create a safe, enjoyable, and informative outdoor experience for hikers of all skill levels.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a hiking guide?

To thrive as a Hiking Guide, you need strong navigation skills, knowledge of local flora and fauna, and physical endurance, typically supported by outdoor safety training and certifications in first aid or wilderness survival. Proficiency in using GPS devices, maps, compasses, and communication radios is highly valuable, along with certifications from organizations such as the Red Cross or Wilderness First Responder. Exceptional communication, group leadership, and problem-solving abilities help guides manage diverse groups and ensure a positive experience. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining group safety, creating enjoyable adventures, and responding effectively to emergencies in outdoor settings.

What challenges can a hiking guide expect to face on the job?

Hiking Guides often face unpredictable weather, changing trail conditions, and the varying physical abilities of group members. Keeping everyone safe and engaged requires flexibility, quick decision-making, and the ability to adapt plans on the fly. Additionally, guides frequently work irregular hours, including weekends and holidays, and may need to handle emergencies calmly in remote locations. However, overcoming these challenges can be very rewarding for those passionate about the outdoors and helping others enjoy nature responsibly.

How do you become a hiking guide?

To become a hiking guide, individuals typically need relevant outdoor experience, knowledge of local trails, and strong communication skills. Many employers require certifications such as Wilderness First Aid or CPR, and some may prefer guides with outdoor leadership training or guiding certifications. Gaining experience through volunteering or working in outdoor recreation helps build necessary skills and credibility.

How much do hiking guides make?

Hiking guides typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from $25,000 to $50,000 depending on experience, location, and the type of guiding services offered. Many guides work seasonally or part-time and may earn tips from clients. Certifications in first aid and outdoor skills can also influence earning potential.

How to get a job as a hiking guide?

To become a hiking guide, you typically need relevant outdoor experience, strong knowledge of local trails and safety procedures, and certifications such as Wilderness First Aid or CPR. Many employers also require good communication skills and a valid driver's license, and some may prefer guides with prior guiding or outdoor leadership experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Hiking Guide jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Hiking Guide jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Hiking Guide jobs in Virginia?

For Hiking Guide jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Hiking Guide jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Hiking Guide jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Hiking Guide jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Hiking Guide job openings:

Hiking Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hiking Guide job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Locum Tenens, 58% Full Time, and 37% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,635 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Iceland Internship (Environmental Science)

Global Treks and Adventures

Virginia Beach, VA

$15 - $19/hr

Internship

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

This internship offers the opportunity to help conduct field research in Reykjavik Iceland with one of our research teams. This expedition will focus on developing two publications:

  • Develop the first hiking trails magazine with short stories capturing the culture and environment of Iceland.
  • A naturalist guide and cultural guide website/web-app to Reykjavik and south Iceland.

The ultimate goal of the publications is to provide travelers with insight into the culture and environment they will be traveling through. Information we will be capturing will include Icelandic culture, history, geography, geology, wildlife, natural resources, economy, health care, religion, tourism impacts and more.

Interns will complete pre-trip investigative research, conduct action research for 1 week in Iceland, and spend 2 months wrapping up their research from their home or university during the summer or fall semester.

"If you want to stand out from the crowd, give people a reason not to forget you.” - Richard Branson.

  • We are currently looking for interns with a positive attitude and a desire to explore and learn about other cultures.

Apply