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Outdoor Guide Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Dune Guide

Mears, MI · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Join our team as a Tour Guide at the Silver Lake Sand Dunes! In this role, you will lead customers ... Ensure visitor safety by monitoring group behavior and enforcing safety guidelines during outdoor ...

COV - GUEST GUIDE

Covert, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

The Guest Guide works closely with the guest services representatives to lead customers to their ... Work is performed primarily outdoors and may involve exposure to varying weather conditions * Must ...

Adams Outdoor Advertising (AOA), the leading advertising platform in Kalamazoo and the 4th largest ... Assignment of a senior Mentor to help guide initial experience and guide to long-term success

The Guest Guide works closely with the guest services representatives to lead customers to their ... Work is performed primarily outdoors and may involve exposure to varying weather conditions * Must ...

Landscape Crew Leader

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Great Outdoors is looking for a motivated Landscape Crew Leader to join our growing team. This is a hands-on leadership role where you'll guide your crew, ensure projects are completed with ...

Landscape Crew Leader

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Great Outdoors is looking for a motivated Landscape Crew Leader to join our growing team. This is a hands-on leadership role where you'll guide your crew, ensure projects are completed with ...

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Whether you're guiding someone to the perfect product or learning new skills behind the scenes, you play a key role in helping more people enjoy more sports and outdoors. Click the link(s) below to ...

$16.75 - $19.50/hr

Whether you're guiding someone to the perfect product or learning new skills behind the scenes, you play a key role in helping more people enjoy more sports and outdoors. Click the link(s) below to ...

In this role, you will use your plant knowledge and leadership skills to guide a crew, manage diverse properties, and deliver beautiful outdoor spaces. Compensation & Benefits * Hourly Wage : $22.00 ...

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Whether you're guiding someone to the perfect product or learning new skills behind the scenes, you play a key role in helping more people enjoy more sports and outdoors. Click the link(s) below to ...

$16.75 - $19.50/hr

Whether you're guiding someone to the perfect product or learning new skills behind the scenes, you play a key role in helping more people enjoy more sports and outdoors. Click the link(s) below to ...

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Outdoor Guide information

See Michigan salary details

$6

$17

$34

How much do outdoor guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor guide in Michigan is $17.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.92 and $17.40 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 Michigan? For Outdoor Guide jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Outdoor Guide jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Outdoor Guide job openings:
Dune Guide

Dune Guide

Silver Lake Buggy Rentals

Mears, MI • On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Join our team as a Tour Guide at the Silver Lake Sand Dunes! In this role, you will lead customers around the ORV park promoting Dune Safety, enforcing company Rules, offering assistance to out customers in the park, and providing customer service on the dunes.

Responsibilities

  • Lead guided tours across the Silver Lake Sand Dunes, providing engaging commentary on local facts and stories.
  • Ensure visitor safety by monitoring group behavior and enforcing safety guidelines during outdoor activities
  • Answer questions from guests, offering detailed insights and fostering a welcoming atmosphere
  • Manage tour schedules efficiently
  • Assist visitors with equipment or activity instructions, demonstrating excellent customer service and teaching skills
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of tour equipment and materials before and after each day

Skills

  • Strong leadership qualities to guide groups confidently and responsibly
  • Excellent public speaking skills to deliver captivating narratives with clarity and enthusiasm
  • Outstanding customer service orientation to ensure positive guest experiences
  • Clear communication skills
  • Teaching experience or ability to educate audiences of all ages about this natural environment and dune safety

This role is perfect for those with a strong connection to the dunes and a desire for wanting others to have that same experience safely!