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Mountain Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Alyeska Resort

Mountain Guide

Girdwood, AK · On-site

$20/hr

Mountain Adventure Guide Summer Operations - Alyeska Resort Are you passionate about the outdoors and sharing unforgettable experiences with others? Do you want your next job to put you in the middle ...

Alyeska Resort

Mountain Guide

Anchorage, AK

$20/hr

Mountain Adventure Guide Summer Operations - Alyeska Resort Are you passionate about the outdoors and sharing unforgettable experiences with others? Do you want your next job to put you in the middle ...

Alyeska Resort

Mountain Guide

Girdwood, AK · On-site

$20/hr

Mountain Adventure Guide Summer Operations - Alyeska Resort Are you passionate about the outdoors and sharing unforgettable experiences with others? Do you want your next job to put you in the middle ...

MOUNTAIN CAPITAL PARTNERS

Mountain Bike Guide

Las Vegas, NV

$17.75 - $22.25/hr

Mountain Bike Guide Employment Type: Seasonal Job Summary: We're looking for passionate, safety-focused, and customer-friendly Mountain Bike Guides to lead group and private rides on our Lee Canyon ...

Aramark

$21 - $23/hr

The YMS Supervisor position oversees Yosemite Mountaineering School and Guide Service office staff, Rock Climbing Guides, Mountain Guide staff, and Badger Pass Nordic Center winter operations while ...

Mountain Capital Partners

Mountain Bike Guide

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$17.75 - $22.25/hr

Mountain Bike Guide Employment Type: Seasonal Job Summary: We're looking for passionate, safety-focused, and customer-friendly Mountain Bike Guides to lead group and private rides on our Lee Canyon ...

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Mountain Guide information

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$7

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How much do mountain guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for mountain 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 jobs pay $2000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can reach $2000 a day often include specialized roles such as experienced mountain guides, surgeons, corporate consultants, or certain executive positions. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, extensive experience, and often involve high-risk or high-responsibility environments. Earnings can vary based on location, demand, and individual expertise.

How do you become a mountain guide?

To become a mountain guide, individuals typically complete professional training through recognized guiding associations, gain experience in mountaineering and outdoor skills, and obtain certifications such as Wilderness First Aid and specific guiding credentials. Proficiency in navigation, safety procedures, and environmental awareness is essential, and many guides start as outdoor instructors or climbers before pursuing certification and employment opportunities.

What is the difference between Mountain Guide vs Rock Climber?

AspectMountain GuideRock Climber
CertificationsAMGA/IFMGA certificationsNone required, but advanced skills and training
Work EnvironmentMountains, alpine terrain, outdoorCliffs, indoor gyms, outdoor rock formations
Industry UsageGuiding clients in mountain environmentsPracticing and competing in rock climbing
Common Search IntentGuiding, safety, outdoor adventureClimbing techniques, training, gear

While both roles involve climbing skills, a Mountain Guide specializes in leading clients safely through mountain terrains, often requiring certifications like AMGA or IFMGA. Rock Climbers focus on climbing techniques, training, and often pursue the sport recreationally or competitively. The main difference lies in the environment and professional responsibilities, with Mountain Guides providing guided experiences in challenging mountain terrains.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mountain Guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mountain Guide, you need advanced mountaineering skills, wilderness first aid certification, and typically formal qualifications such as IFMGA/UIAGM accreditation. Familiarity with navigation tools, climbing equipment, avalanche safety systems, and weather assessment technology is essential. Strong leadership, decision-making, and effective communication are soft skills that set exceptional guides apart. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring client safety, adapting to changing conditions, and delivering memorable outdoor experiences.

What are mountain guides?

Mountain guides are highly trained professionals who lead individuals or groups on mountain expeditions, hikes, climbs, and other alpine activities. They are experts in navigation, safety, and risk management in mountainous terrain, and often hold certifications from recognized guiding organizations. Mountain guides provide instruction, ensure the safety of their clients, and offer local knowledge about the environment and conditions. Their expertise is essential for those looking to explore challenging or unfamiliar mountain areas safely.

What are some common challenges Mountain Guides face when leading groups, and how can they effectively manage them?

Mountain Guides often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather, varying client skill levels, and ensuring group safety on technical terrain. Effective communication, thorough pre-trip planning, and adaptability are crucial for managing these situations. Guides must be skilled at assessing and mitigating risks, providing clear instructions, and fostering teamwork among clients to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

How much does a trail guide make?

A trail guide's salary varies based on experience, location, and employer, but typically ranges from $15 to $25 per hour or $30,000 to $50,000 annually. Many guides earn additional tips and may need certifications such as first aid or wilderness training to increase earning potential.

How much money do mountain guides make?

Mountain guides typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, certifications, and the complexity of the terrain they lead. Many guides supplement income through tips and seasonal work, with some working freelance or for guiding companies. Earnings can vary widely based on skill level and the number of trips led each season.
More about Mountain Guide jobs
What cities are hiring for Mountain Guide jobs? Cities with the most Mountain Guide job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Mountain Guide jobs? The top employers for Mountain Guide jobs are:
What states have the most Mountain Guide jobs? States with the most job openings for Mountain Guide jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Mountain Guide jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mountain Guide jobs are:
Mountain Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mountain Guide job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 31% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,987 per year, or $19.7 per hour.
Mountain Guide

Mountain Guide

Alyeska Resort

Girdwood, AK • On-site

$20/hr

Other

PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Mountain Adventure Guide

Summer Operations - Alyeska Resort

Are you passionate about the outdoors and sharing unforgettable experiences with others? Do you want your next job to put you in the middle of the adventure and surrounded by picturesque nature? If you enjoy exploring the mountains and helping guests discover Alaska's incredible landscape, then Alyeska Resort is for you!

We're looking for Mountain Adventure Guide professionals to join our team in Girdwood, Alaska.

What You'll Do

As a Mountain Adventure Guide, you lead guests on memorable outdoor experiences across Alyeska Resort and the surrounding Chugach Mountains. In this role, you will guide mountain hikes, e-bike tours, and Veilbreaker Skybridge excursions while delivering exceptional guest service and sharing insights about the region's natural environment, wildlife, and history. Adventure Guides serve as ambassadors for Alyeska Resort and help guests explore the mountain safely and responsibly.

Your responsibilities will include:

  • Lead guided outdoor experiences including mountain hikes, e-bike tours, and Veilbreaker Skybridge excursions.

  • Manage group pacing, route navigation, and guest movement through mountain terrain.

  • Monitor weather conditions, terrain hazards, and guest ability levels throughout tours.

  • Maintain guest safety and adjust routes, pace, or plans when environmental conditions change.

  • Guide guests safely across exposed terrain and elevated Skybridge crossings when assigned.

  • Provide engaging information about the Chugach Mountains, wildlife, geology, and local history.

  • Assist with equipment preparation, tour staging, and operational logistics.

  • Communicate with Alyeska Mountain Patrol or other departments regarding safety concerns or incidents.

  • Respond to guest questions and provide general resort information.

  • Participate in safety briefings, training sessions, and departmental meetings.

What We Offer

Competitive hourly wage: $20/HR
Employee Housing for a small fee - live and play where you work
Flexible work schedules
Paid time off & holidays
Free Mountain Pass for employees and qualified dependents
Employee discounts on resort lodging, dining, and spa services

What We Need

  • Strong communication and customer service skills.

  • Experience participating in outdoor recreation such as hiking or mountain biking.

  • Ability to safely lead groups in outdoor mountain environments.

  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

  • Valid driver's license and ability to operate resort vehicles.

  • CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain).

  • Ability to work flexible schedules including weekends and holidays.

  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and terrain conditions.

Preferred qualifications include previous guiding or adventure tourism experience, knowledge of local trails in the Girdwood area, or certifications such as Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or EMT.

What to Expect

Spend much of your day outdoors in the mountain environment.
Lead guests across varied terrain including steep trails and exposed areas.
Work in a dynamic resort environment with changing weather conditions.
Adapt to seasonal operations, guest activity levels, and special events.

About Alyeska Resort

Alyeska Resort is a world-class destination nestled in the mountains of Girdwood, Alaska, just 45 minutes south of Anchorage. With a 299+ room hotel, a Nordic Spa, and a renowned ski area, we offer an exciting and dynamic work environment where employees can work hard, play hard, and Live the Adventure!

Alaska is an incredible place and Girdwood is a friendly, lively town where residents value both outdoor adventure and community spirit. Alyeska Resort offers the type of atmosphere where our employees are able to work hard and play hard, and are encouraged to share their enthusiasm with our guests. Whether you are an experienced outdoor professional or someone eager to begin a career in recreation, tourism, or hospitality, Alyeska Resort offers a unique opportunity to build your adventure in the heart of Alaska.

Alyeska Resort is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace.

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