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Hiking Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Hiking information

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How much do hiking jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for hiking in Virginia is $12.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $7.71 and $16.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a hiking guide do?

A hiking guide leads individuals or groups on outdoor walking excursions, ensuring their safety and providing information about the local environment, wildlife, and history. They plan routes, assess trail conditions, and offer guidance on hiking techniques and gear. Hiking guides are trained in first aid and are knowledgeable about navigation, weather patterns, and leave-no-trace principles to enhance the outdoor experience for participants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hiking guide?

To thrive as a Hiking Guide, you need strong knowledge of outdoor safety, navigation, first aid, and local terrain, usually supported by relevant certifications like Wilderness First Aid. Familiarity with GPS devices, trail mapping software, and emergency communication tools is typically required. Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help guides manage groups and respond effectively to unexpected situations. These competencies ensure both the safety and enjoyment of clients while fostering trust and confidence during outdoor adventures.

What are some common challenges faced by professional hiking guides, and how can they be addressed?

Professional hiking guides often face challenges such as unpredictable weather, varying group fitness levels, and ensuring safety in remote areas. Managing these requires strong planning skills, adaptability, and effective communication with clients. Guides typically conduct pre-hike briefings, carry essential safety equipment, and keep updated on trail conditions to mitigate risks. Building strong rapport with the group and maintaining flexibility can also help address unexpected issues that arise during hikes.

What is the difference between Hiking vs Mountain Guide?

AspectHikingMountain Guide
Required CredentialsNo formal certification needed, but outdoor skills helpfulCertifications such as ACMG or IFMGA required
Work EnvironmentTrails, parks, natural terrainsMountains, remote terrains, challenging routes
Employer & IndustryOutdoor recreation, parks, tourismTour companies, adventure tourism, guiding services
Common Search & ComparisonPopular outdoor activity, beginner to intermediateSpecialized professional guiding in mountainous terrains

Hiking involves walking on trails and natural terrains for recreation or exercise, often without formal training. Mountain Guides, however, are trained professionals with certifications who lead and ensure safety on challenging mountain routes. While hiking is accessible to many, mountain guiding requires specialized skills and credentials, making it a more advanced profession in outdoor recreation.

Can hiking be a career?

Hiking can be a career when it involves roles such as outdoor guide, park ranger, or adventure tour operator. These jobs often require knowledge of outdoor safety, navigation skills, and sometimes certifications or training in wilderness first aid. Many professionals combine their passion for hiking with related skills to build a sustainable career in outdoor recreation or conservation.

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

The most popular types of Hiking jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

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

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

Hiking jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hiking job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Full Time, and 64% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $25,211 per year, or $12.1 per hour.

(All Women+ Crew) Hungry Mother State Park & Paddling

American Hiking Society

Marion, VA • On-site

$11.50 - $15/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

This project is open to anyone who feels that an all- women's trip that centers and celebrates the experience of women is the right space for them.

An annual fall favorite not to be missed! Visit one of the original six Virginia State Parks! Hungry Mother State Park is known for beautiful woodlands and a placid 108-acre lake in the heart of the mountains. This state park suffered extensive damage during the 2024 hurricane season.

Hungry Mother State Park encompasses roughly 3,000 acres with 250 acres developed. The park is nestled in the Appalachian mountains of southwest Virginia and has a 108-acre lake stocked with Muskie, walleye, and catfish, but plenty of other native species are available. Canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding are all available. Hungry Mother also has 18 miles of some of the finest mountain trails to hike and bike. One trail leads to the highest knob in the Park, Molly's Knob with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains and countryside. Find out who Molly is and how she is ingrained in our legend of how she helped to give the park its name. The park is located in the same county as the highest peak in Virginia, Mt. Rogers, and is surrounded by National forest and many natural areas. The Channels, the Pinnacles, the Cascades, and Grayson Highlands State Park to name a few are all extraordinary natural finds and are all within an hour's drive of the park. This area is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Basic shopping needs and nice eateries are located in Marion, VA, only four miles away.

For this project, volunteers will continue trail work on the Raiders Run Reroute, which American Hiking Society crews have worked on for the last three years. The trails have been bench cut (trail steps) on moderately steep slopes but will be improved for sustainability with water diversion features. Volunteers will improve trails by maintaining, shaping, and defining existing hiking and mountain bike features including berms, rollers, and trail tread formations on these trails along with other necessary features. Most of the work will be spent bending, shoveling, raking, chopping, and tamping.

There is no experience needed to join a Volunteer Vacation! Your expert hosts will provide detailed instruction, tool demonstrations, and project oversight throughout the week. All you need is a willing attitude and to be in good physical condition to participate in moderate physical activity for approximately 6-8 hours a day with plenty of breaks, at your own pace. Find out more about what it's like to join a Volunteer Vacation and other frequently asked questions here.

Area and Attractions

Hungry Mother State Park encompasses roughly 3,000 acres with 250 acres developed. The park is nestled in the Appalachian mountains of southwest Virginia and has a 108-acre lake stocked with Muskie, walleye, and catfish, but plenty of other native species are available. Canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding are all available. Hungry Mother also has 18 miles of some of the finest mountain trails to hike and bike. One trail leads to the highest knob in the Park, Molly's Knob with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains and countryside. Find out who Molly is and how she is ingrained in our legend of how she helped to give the park its name. The park is located in the same county as the highest peak in Virginia, Mt. Rogers, and is surrounded by National forest and many natural areas. The Channels, the Pinnacles, the Cascades, and Grayson Highlands State Park to name a few are all extraordinary natural finds and are all within an hour's drive of the park. This area is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Basic shopping needs and nice eateries are located in Marion, VA, only four miles away.

Accommodations Description

Volunteers will camp in a group camping area just a few yards from a bath house that includes bathroom facilities, showers, potable water, and laundry. Volunteers will have access to firewood, ice, a propane grill, fire rings, and wifi. A camp host lives at the main campground and can help if needed. Volunteers need to bring their own tent and personal camping gear; sheets, bedding or sleeping bag; towels; and personal cup, bowl, mug, and eating utensils.

Registration Link: https://americanhiking.org/volunteer-vacation-trip/hungry-mother-state-park-paddling-va/

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