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Outdoor Guide Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Outdoor Guide information

See California salary details

$7

$19

$39

How much do outdoor guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor guide in California is $19.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are outdoor guides?

Outdoor guides are professionals who lead individuals or groups on outdoor adventures such as hiking, rafting, climbing, fishing, or camping. They are responsible for ensuring the safety of participants, sharing knowledge about the environment, and providing instruction on techniques and equipment. Outdoor guides often have specialized training in first aid, navigation, and natural history. Their goal is to create enjoyable, educational, and safe experiences in various outdoor settings.

What is the difference between Outdoor Guide vs Hiking Instructor?

AspectOutdoor GuideHiking Instructor
CertificationsFirst Aid, CPR, outdoor activity certificationsFirst Aid, CPR, outdoor activity certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor settings, various terrains, group supervisionDesignated hiking trails, group instruction, outdoor
Employer & IndustryTour companies, adventure tourism, outdoor recreationOutdoor education centers, adventure programs, outdoor recreation
Search & Comparison IntentPeople seeking outdoor adventure jobs or toursIndividuals interested in outdoor education or guiding hikes

While both roles involve outdoor activities and safety certifications, an Outdoor Guide typically leads various outdoor adventures across different terrains, focusing on guiding groups through activities like rafting, climbing, or camping. A Hiking Instructor specializes in teaching hiking skills, leading groups on trails, and providing outdoor education specifically related to hiking. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments but differ in scope and activity focus.

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

To thrive as an Outdoor Guide, you need expertise in outdoor skills, navigation, first aid, and a solid understanding of environmental safety, often supported by certifications like Wilderness First Responder or Leave No Trace. Familiarity with GPS devices, mapping software, and specialized gear for activities such as hiking, kayaking, or climbing is typically required. Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities help guides manage groups and respond calmly to unexpected situations. These skills ensure the safety, enjoyment, and education of participants while minimizing risks in dynamic outdoor environments.

What are some common challenges Outdoor Guides face during group excursions, and how can they be managed?

Outdoor Guides often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather, varying group fitness levels, and maintaining group safety in remote environments. Effective Outdoor Guides stay prepared with contingency plans, adapt itineraries on the fly, and communicate clearly with participants to ensure everyone understands expectations and safety procedures. Building rapport and fostering teamwork within diverse groups is also key for a positive and safe experience.
What are popular job titles related to Outdoor Guide jobs in California? For Outdoor Guide jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Guide jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Guide jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Outdoor Guide jobs? Cities in California with the most Outdoor Guide job openings:
Outdoor Guide jobs near you

Adventure Guide

Tahoe Expedition Academy & Tahoe Summer Camps

Truckee, CA

$16.90 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

TEA Fieldwork Guide Position: The guide role is a position that could support any fieldwork from 2 days and 1 night to 11 days and 10 nights and in addition, day trips.
TEA is an experiential education based K-12 school in the Truckee/North Lake Tahoe region. We create more than 200 field trips or field studies each year. Many are single day, but others are overnight, more in depth "peak experiences," which require additional support to execute. The overnight field studies begin in Kindergarten and continue through 12th grade. Each developmental level creates longer and more intense opportunities for field based experiential education.
The guide position requires a variety of outdoor and interpersonal skills. We look for people who possess teaching or outdoor skills degrees or a depth of personal and professional experience working with youth in the wilderness or in trip leading. Outdoor skills, including backpacking, camping, rock climbing, rafting, kayaking, surfing as well as knowledge and expertise leading outdoor or environmental education can assist the guide role, but may not be required depending on the field study. In addition, this requires gear repair and restock hours.
The ability to build rapport, remain open minded, positive and flexible, within adverse and challenging environments is a must. A current Wilderness First Responder and CPR certifications are required for employment. Additional certifications, including lifeguarding, rock climbing guide, swift water rescue, avalanche training could allow for more opportunities in specific field work outings, but are not required for employment. Livescan fingerprinting clearance is also required prior to first day of work.
Pay rate, varies by contract and field study.

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