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Outdoor Adventure Guide Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Kayak Guide (PT Seasonal)

Lake Arrowhead, CA

$17.50/hr

Lake Arrowhead is the perfect location for outdoor adventure enthusiasts and offers a variety of ... Lead guided kayak tours that are safe, educational, and aligned with the resort's luxury guest ...

FIRST LIGHT RESORTS LLC

Recreation Guide

Groveland, CA · On-site

$21/hr

Want to gain guiding and guest service experience -- with room to grow if you excel? If that sounds ... If you're ready to turn your love for the outdoors into a Yosemite adventure, come be a part of our ...

FIRST LIGHT RESORTS LLC

Recreation Guide

Groveland, CA · On-site

$21/hr

Want to gain guiding and guest service experience - with room to grow if you excel? If that sounds ... If you're ready to turn your love for the outdoors into a Yosemite adventure, come be a part of our ...

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All JobsOutdoor Adventure Guide JobsOutdoor Adventure Guide Jobs in California

Outdoor Adventure Guide information

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$9

$15

$21

How much do outdoor adventure guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor adventure guide in California is $15.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.03 and $14.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Outdoor Adventure Guide vs Outdoor Instructor?

AspectOutdoor Adventure GuideOutdoor Instructor
CertificationsFirst Aid, CPR, outdoor activity certificationsFirst Aid, CPR, activity-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor settings, adventure parks, wildernessOutdoor classes, training centers, camps
Employer & IndustryTour companies, adventure parks, outdoor recreationSchools, camps, outdoor education programs

Both roles involve outdoor settings and safety certifications, but Outdoor Adventure Guides focus on leading recreational activities for clients, while Outdoor Instructors typically teach skills or safety in a structured environment. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope and setting.

What are some common challenges outdoor adventure guides face during trips, and how can they prepare for them?

Outdoor Adventure Guides often encounter unpredictable weather, varying group skill levels, and unexpected route changes. Preparing for these challenges involves thorough pre-trip planning, regular safety training, and clear communication with participants. Guides also benefit from strong problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt quickly to changing conditions, ensuring both guest safety and an enjoyable experience. Teamwork and ongoing learning are key to successfully managing these dynamic environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an outdoor adventure guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Outdoor Adventure Guide, you need expertise in outdoor activities, navigation, safety protocols, and often certifications like Wilderness First Aid or CPR. Familiarity with GPS devices, map-reading, and equipment such as climbing or kayaking gear is typically required. Outstanding communication, leadership, and adaptability help guides manage groups and respond effectively to changing conditions. These skills are crucial to ensure client safety, provide memorable experiences, and handle emergencies confidently in outdoor environments.

What is an outdoor adventure guide?

Outdoor Adventure Guides are professionals who lead individuals or groups on outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, rafting, climbing, or camping. They are responsible for ensuring the safety, enjoyment, and education of participants during these adventures. Guides often provide instruction on outdoor skills, share information about the local environment, and manage any risks that may arise. Their expertise helps participants have memorable and safe experiences in natural settings.
What are popular job titles related to Outdoor Adventure Guide jobs in California? For Outdoor Adventure Guide jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Adventure Guide jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Adventure Guide jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Outdoor Adventure Guide jobs? Cities in California with the most Outdoor Adventure Guide job openings:
Outdoor Adventure Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Adventure Guide job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,169 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Adventure Guide

arc After School and Experiential Education

San Diego, CA • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Make a Difference Today!

Do you thrive in the great outdoors? Love being active and working with youth? Are some of your best memories from hiking, camping, climbing, or water sports? If you believe kids learn more from hands-on outdoor experiences than sitting in a classroom, and you are looking for a flexible work schedule, then this is your calling!

Arc Experience provides before and after school programs for youth throughout Southern California in Los Angeles, San Diego, and Imperial Valley.

We highly value our employees, and we invest in them by providing opportunities to expand their career and life skills. Arc is looking for motivated and compassionate people who want to expand their career working with youth and have a desire to give back to the community.

Arc Experience’s Outdoor Adventure division is seeking enthusiastic Outdoor Adventure Guides to inspire and empower youth through nature-based activities. No need to be a backcountry expert—we will train you in the outdoor skills you need!

As a guide, you will lead team-building challenges, obstacle courses, and offsite adventures like kayaking and biking, helping students build confidence, develop social-emotional skills, and discover their potential—all while having an unforgettable time outdoors!

If you are ready to turn your love for adventure into a meaningful job, join our team today!

Qualifications & Experience

  • 2+ years of experienceworking with K-12 students.
  • Understanding of outdoor educationor leadership development programs.
  • Experience in adventure activitiesis highly preferred. Our most common programs include:
    • Hiking
    • Biking
    • Kayaking
    • Rock climbing
    • Team-building activities
  • Ability to personally participatein outdoor activities.
  • Strong leadership and behavior management skills, overseeing up to 20 students.
  • Encouraging and patient approachwhen working with youth.

Safety & Compliance Requirements

  • Mustcreate and maintain a physically and mentally safe environmentfor students, fostering personal growth, confidence, self-reliance, and leadership.
  • Laser-focused on participant safetyandcertified in first aid, CPR, and basic wilderness safety(or willing to complete training).
  • Ability to drive vehicles(with and without student passengers) per Arc's requirements. You will be trained to operate a vehicle towing a climbing wall and must participate in occasional refresher training.
  • College transcripts that show you have 48+ college credit units completed OR you take and pass an academic proficiency exam.
  • To get a TB test (and provide proof that it is negative) and pass a Live Scan background check.
  • You will be required to take CPR and first aid training or provide proof that you have been certified within 12 months.
  • English - Spanish bilingual speaker highly preferred.
  • Valid California driver's licenserequired (Commercial Driver's License a plus!).

Additional Expectations

  • Available to workboth weekdays and weekends.
  • Someadministrative paperworkis required for each outing.
  • Willingness to assist withevent prep, post-event tasks, cleanup, and inventory.
  • Familiarity with Leave No Trace (LNT) principlesis preferred.
  • Open tosharing ideas for improving programs and logistics.
  • Bilingual English-Spanish speakerswill have a competitive edge!
  • High school diploma or GED required(Bachelor's degree highly preferred).

Pay Rate & Benefits

  • Position Type:Part-time, non-exempt
  • Reports To:Director of Outdoor Education Operations
  • Compensation:$20.00 - $24.00 per hour (based on experience & skills)

If the school you will be working at requires a Covid-19 vaccination, then you must provide documentation that shows you are fully Covid-19 vaccinated.

Perks of Being an Arc Outdoor Adventure Guide

  • Earned paid sick leave
  • All equipment provided for events and activities
  • Company-sponsored certification assistance for long-term guides
  • Arc-branded outdoor wear
  • Ongoing training & professional development opportunities

Ability to commute/relocate:

  • Reliably commute before starting work (Required)

Arcis an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Apply