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Mountain Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ThreePeaks Ascent

Outdoor Field Guide

Enterprise, UT · On-site

$153 - $260/day

The field guide is the person who sees our students every day and directly facilitates the healing ... These groups will do day hikes and other adventure activities, such as riding mountain biking ...

White Lodging Careers

Activities Guide

Saratoga, WY · On-site

Serve as a lead guide for specialized activities such as ropes challenge courses, archery, mountain biking, or rock climbing. * Act as the primary guide for your specialty activity while also being ...

Alterra

Activities Guide - Summer

Mammoth Lakes, CA · On-site

$20 - $21.47/hr

Seasonal At Mammoth Mountain, you will live the dream! Work and play in the majestic mountains with a free season pass that opens the doors to adventure at all Alterra Resorts. Your whole family can ...

Alaska Mountain Guides

Fleet Mechanic - Seasonal

Haines, AK · On-site

$26.75 - $34.25/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Fleet Mechanic & Maintenance Technician is responsible for performing hands-on maintenance, repairs, and inspections for Alaska Mountain Guides fleet and facilities. This role ...

BLACKBERRY FARM

Mountain Biking Supervisor

Walland, TN · On-site

$20/hr

The supervisor will act as a guide as well as assist the Adventure Manager with supervisory duties ... Mountain bike maintenance * Maintain cycling areas by keeping work spaces clean and organized

Highlands Aerial Park

Zipline Tour Guide

Highlands, NC · On-site

Located in Scaly Mountain, NC--just minutes from Highlands, NC, and Clayton, GA. Quick Snapshot ... Guide guests through zipline tours and aerial adventure experiences * Create a fun, safe, and ...

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All JobsMountain Guide Jobs

Mountain Guide information

See salary details

$7

$19

$39

How much do mountain guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 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.

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, along with a strong physical fitness level and knowledge of the terrain.

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A mountain guide can earn around $4,000 per week by leading outdoor adventures, especially in high-demand seasons or with extensive experience and certifications. Other high-paying jobs without a degree include commercial pilot, real estate broker, or sales manager, but these often require specialized skills, licenses, or significant experience. Income varies based on location, workload, and skill level.

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 is the salary of a mountaineer?

The salary of a mountain guide varies depending on experience, location, and the type of expeditions they lead, but typically ranges from $30,000 to $70,000 annually. Experienced guides with certifications and specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially in popular or remote mountain regions.

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 money do mountain guides make?

Mountain guides typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, certifications, and the type of guiding (e.g., rock climbing, glacier trekking). Many guides supplement income through tips and seasonal work, with some working freelance or for guiding companies. Higher earnings are often associated with specialized skills and extensive experience in challenging environments.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% 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.
Canyoneering Tour Guide

Canyoneering Tour Guide

French Broad Adventures

Asheville, NC • On-site

$13/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Canyoneering, Canyoning, Outdoor Adventure, Outdoor Guides, Adventure Guides, Outdoor Industry
For 44 years French Broad Adventures has been a leader in the outdoor industry in Western North Carolina and has trained thousands of adventure guides. Our adventures offer you the opportunity to join a family-oriented small business and gain important skills in outdoor adventures for this season and beyond.
*This job will be based in Asheville, NC
Are you interested in rappelling down the beautiful waterfalls of Western North Carolina? Join our team of adventure-loving outdoor enthusiasts in Western North Carolina! Canyoneering Guides lead guests through wilderness areas and remote river canyons, demonstrating high-quality customer service and safety standards while also having a fun time!
French Broad Adventures offers Whitewater rafting, zipline canopy tours, canyoneering, mountain e-biking and calm water trips-- we've got it all! We operate our adventures outside Asheville, Brevard, Marshall, and Hot Springs, NC.
The mission of French Broad Adventures is to combine experienced guides, excellent customer service, and exceptional outdoor adventures to create incomparable memories for our valued guests.
Season
Our season is from March 1 - Nov 1, with our busiest times being from Memorial Day - Labor Day. Experience is welcome, but we will train the right candidates. The training period will begin in March, with additional training during the season. Part-time and Full-Time seasonal jobs are available.
Canyoneering Guides must:
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Maintain at least a current First Aid/Basic CPR/AED certification (we provide as needed)
  • Complete FBA Guide training and check-out process
  • Demonstrate excellent customer service skills
  • Work well under pressure
  • Have a positive attitude
  • Physical and Emotional resilience - must be able to perform for prolonged periods in the field and maintain energy, strength, and stamina.
  • Must be able to carry 15-30lbs
  • Must be willing to swim/enter the water and be comfortable in wet conditions for prolonged periods
  • Possess the ability to take direction
  • Demonstrate risk management strategies
  • Attend periodic trainings and meetings
  • Work well as part of a team
  • Have enthusiasm about sharing outdoor activities with guests
  • Show good judgment and decision-making
  • Be comfortable speaking to groups
  • Have the willingness to work weekends and holidays

Compensation and Benefits
  • Competitive Pay - ranges from $13.00 to 16.00p/h depending on experience
  • +Tips from our amazing guests
  • Paid training
  • First Aid CPR/AED certification
  • Family atmosphere
  • Retail Shop discounts on FBA Gear
  • Discounts on Adventures with French Broad Adventures

French Broad Adventures is a veteran-owned, inclusive, equal-opportunity employer and adventure provider. We welcome all people and do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, religion, political beliefs, parental status, veteran status, marital status, gender, or gender identity. We are committed to a workplace free of discrimination and value diversity in our employees.

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