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Mountain Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Outdoor Pursuits Guide

Big Sky, MT ยท On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

Ability to teach all guided activities especially mountain biking and hiking. Demonstrate expert knowledge of Big Sky Resort winter and summer; technical background of outdoor equipment; basic local ...

Outdoor Pursuits Guide

Big Sky, MT

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

Ability to teach all guided activities especially mountain biking and hiking. Demonstrate expert knowledge of Big Sky Resort winter and summer; technical background of outdoor equipment; basic local ...

Millers Cove Rd Walland, TN 37886 The Ropes Course Guide will lead guests on an inspiring and educational journey through the trees on Blackberry Mountain's Canopy Course and be responsible for all ...

Ropes Course Guide

Walland, TN ยท On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Millers Cove RdWalland, TN 37886 The Ropes Course Guide will lead guests on an inspiring and educational journey through the trees on Blackberry Mountain's Canopy Course and be responsible for all ...

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Mountain Guide information

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$7

$19

$39

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:
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.

Key responsibilities

  • Lead guided hikes and other adventure activities at Blue Sky.

  • Assist with setup, execution, and cleanup of adventure and Ranch related activities.

  • Provide guest transportation to and from adventure activities.


Job description

Our Company & Our Property
Whether traveling on a ski trip to Aspen or taking a romantic escape in Santorini for a special anniversary, it is the simple things that are most important to the guests of Auberge Resorts Collection.ย  At Auberge, we offer the opportunity to create personal memories and stories; tasting freshly picked fruit in Cabo San Lucas, horseback riding with a local cowboy in Costa Rica, or planting coral gardens in the South Pacific. People who know us, choose to return for shared experiences that connect them to local cultures, and which will be forever embedded in their soul.
The Lodge at Blue Sky is nestled between the soaring peaks of Utahโ€™s Wasatch and Uinta Mountain ranges, sitting on thousands of acres of some of the worldโ€™s most breathtakingly beautiful natural lands just moments from Park City. Blue Sky Utah is the ideal venue for weddings, private parties, receptions, corporate gatherings and outdoor adventures of every kind. In addition to our event venues, we offer multiple high-end western-inspired mountain adventures on our spectacular 3,500 acres.
Role Summary
Join our team as an Adventures Guide for Blue Sky Utah, serving the needs of the business, our guests, and our colleagues by assisting the program director with sales, scheduling, and setup/take down of adventures activities and logistics including transportation, reservations, guest services and food/beverage arrangements. The guide will be tasked with organizing and/or leading outdoor activities that primarily encompass sporting clays, hiking, biking, fishing, and assorted fitness classes. The expectation is that the guide will help to ensure that adventures are well planned and provide an experience that is fun, safe, and challenging to all guests.

This job is a seasonal summer position for summer of 2024 (May-September).ย  Opportunities at the end of the summer season may arise for a year-round position.


Core Responsibilities
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of everything that needs to be done!ย  Within the Blue Sky family, our people always find new ways to look after the business, their guests, and their team-mates. Within this, the key responsibilities for this position are:

  • Lead guided hikes and other adventures at Blue Sky
  • Provide an educational and fun experience for guests
  • Assist with guest transportation to/from adventures
  • Assist with setup, execution, and cleanup of adventure and Ranch related activities
  • Always be willing to assist with job tasks outside the scope of your regular job description

Required Qualifications

  • 2+ years of outdoor guiding experience preferred (Hiking, Mountain Biking, Fly Fishing, Archery, etc)
  • Early morning, late evening, and weekend work required!
  • First Aid/CPR Training.ย  WFA/WFR certification or greater preferred.
  • A passion for outdoor adventures and events.
  • Must thrive in a team environment.
  • 2-3 years customer service, sales and/or hospitality and guest service experience
  • Professional appearance and demeanor, excellent verbal communication skills
  • Positive attitude, resourceful nature, and excellent problem-solving capabilities.ย 
  • Must work well under pressure and a heavy workload.
  • Ability to maintain high-energy and effectiveness in a fast-paced environment.
  • Valid driver license with good driving record
  • Must be able to work in both indoor and outdoor environments and all weather.
  • Must be able to safely lift at least 50 lbs., climb, bend, reach, walk, stand, twist.


What Else?
At Blue Sky, we are passionate about our mission to be the best-loved operator of one-of-a-kind luxury properties and experiences.ย  We are storytellers and story-makers, delivering simple pleasures, and creating unforgettable memories.ย  Born in Napa and inspired by the most relaxing places in the world, we prize simplicity, comfort, and beauty.ย  Whatever role we play in Blue Sky, and wherever we work, we all live by the view that our core purpose is to enrich peopleโ€™s lives.ย  If you feel that our approach is aligned with your own passions and beliefs, then please talk to us about becoming part of our family.
Blue Sky isย an Equal Opportunity Employer, M/F/D/V.ย The Lodge at Blue Skyย provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all team members and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements,ย The Lodge at Blue Sky compliesย with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.