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Outdoor Guide Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

$16.32/hr

Biltmore's Outdoor Adventure Center Guides are responsible for providing safe and exceptional outdoor recreational and educational programs for guests, annual passholders,and groups. Outdoor ...

Guide orientations with small to large groups * Monitor activities of participants to correct unsafe behavior * Clean party areas prior and after events * Set up and break down program-related ...

As a Go Ape Outdoor Adventure Guide, you will be primarily responsible for instructing participants how to navigate our treetop adventure courses as well as other ground-based outdoor recreation ...

As a Go Ape Outdoor Adventure Guide, you will be primarily responsible for instructing participants how to navigate our treetop adventure courses as well as other ground-based outdoor recreation ...

Adventure Guide

Memphis, TN · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

As a Go Ape Outdoor Adventure Guide, you will be primarily responsible for instructing participants how to navigate our treetop adventure courses as well as other ground-based outdoor recreation ...

Adventure Guide

Memphis, TN · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

As a Go Ape Outdoor Adventure Guide, you will be primarily responsible for instructing participants how to navigate our treetop adventure courses as well as other ground-based outdoor recreation ...

Zipline Guide

Gatlinburg, TN · On-site

$17.12/hr

Our award-winning theme park creates unique outdoor experiences at the top of the Smoky Mountains and we want YOU to be a part of it! Anakeesta is seeking Zipline Guides to lead and our guests and ...

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Outdoor Guide information

See Tennessee salary details

$6

$17

$36

How much do outdoor guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor guide in Tennessee is $17.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.45 and $18.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an outdoor guide?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be an outdoor guide?

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 challenges do 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 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 popular job titles related to Outdoor Guide jobs in Tennessee?

For Outdoor Guide jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Outdoor Guide job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,200 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Outdoor Adventure Center Guide I - Reserve

Biltmore Company

On-site

$16.32/hr

Part-time

Posted 20 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist guests with information, rental equipment, and trail map orientation.

  • Load, unload, and maintain outdoor equipment and vehicles used for activities.

  • Present naturalist, well-being, and history programs to guests.


Biltmore Estate rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Biltmore Estate

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5.6

Company rating compared to similar companies: 5.6 out of 10

Hospitality employers average

Based on 104,290 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at Biltmore Estate

  • 89%

    89% say they enjoy their job

    say they enjoy their job

  • 80%

    80% say their managers don’t change their shifts at short notice

    say their managers don’t change their shifts at short notice

  • 67%

    67% say they have respectful managers

    say they have respectful managers

Featured by Biltmore Estate, based on 13 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees


Job description

Job Description

The starting pay range for this position begins at $16.32/hour but is based on the level of qualifications and relevant experience above the minimum requirements.

Biltmore's Outdoor Adventure Center Guides are responsible for providing safe
and exceptional outdoor recreational and educational programs for guests, annual passholders,and groups. Outdoor activities include, but are not limited to, bike rentals and guided tours,guided raft and kayak river trips, hiking, archery, fishing, croquet, naturalist presentations,mindfulness and well-being programs, and team-building activities. Outdoor Adventure CenterGuides also provide basic maintenance for all related equipment, facilities, and trails. Guidesmay assist with administrative duties, sales and bookings, and estate seminars and will alsoprovide general support and assistance to the leadership team, department, and company. Outdoor Adventure Center staff are expected to learn, and present to guests, Biltmore,Vanderbilt family, and land history, as well as information specific to individual outdoor activities. Guides are expected to adhere to the Biltmore Guest Services Standards at all times while alsobeing a role model of our core values.

Schedule will vary but is generally between 8:30 AM-5:30 PM daily. The work schedule will include weekends, evenings, andholidays. Weekend, evening, and holiday availability is required.

Essential Job Duties

1. Assist guests with information, rental equipment, and trail map orientation.

2. Load equipment on and off vans and trailers, including, but not limited to, rafts, oars, boats, kayaks, paddles, bikes, etc.

3. Drive a 15-passenger van and trailer loaded with guests and equipment, as well as other company vehicles.

4. Clean and maintain bikes, rafts, kayaks, and other equipment.

5. Maneuver kayaks and rafts using paddles and oar frames.

6. Launch and row a drift boat or raft.

7. Return all equipment and vehicles to the appropriate place and ensure that each item used will be ready to go out into the field as soon as needed.

8. Perform basic trail and habitat maintenance, including mowing, weed-eating, and digging.

9. Present naturalist, well-being, and history programs to guests.

10. Assist with administering special programs to large groups, including fishing schools.

11. Help guests with estate information and other activities offered at Biltmore.

12. Book tours, process payments, and interpret online reports.

Additional Responsibilities

1. Additional duties as assigned by department managers and supervisors.

2. Provide general support and assistance to department, leadership, and company as required.

3. Exhibit knowledge about all aspects of the working estate and competency in appropriate cross-selling other services and amenities across the property.

4. Demonstrate knowledge about Asheville and Western North Carolina, particularly in reference to outdoor activities.

Qualifications

1. One year or more of experience in outdoor program activities, related education, or equivalent experience.

2. Experience leading interpretive activities.

3. Experience in guiding and/or teaching outdoor activities preferred.

4. Excellent guest service and communication skills. Public speaking experience preferred.

5. Valid driver's license.

6. Current certification in First Aid and CPR (onsite required, not online) or the ability to obtain it within one month of hire.

7. Ability to work well with co-workers and management.

8. Ability to represent the program and company in a professional manner consistent with standards is a must. Should be able to handle basic guest service issues with diplomacy and tact.

9. General knowledge of horticulture and regional wildlife preferred.

10. Familiarity with Orvis 101 instructional programs preferred.

11. Familiarity with, or the ability to learn quickly, all safety regulations, state regulations, and procedures related to fishing and wildlife management.

Physical Requirements

1. Must be in good physical condition for outdoor activities in all temperatures and weather conditions.

2. Must have the ability to lift equipment onto racks, trailers, and vans.

3. Must be able to swim.

4. Must have the ability to work effectively with exposure to dirt, dust, pollen, and other particulates.

5. Must have manual dexterity to handle bait, lines, and equipment.

6. Must pass a physical exam and drug screen test.

7. Must be able to see, hear, and speak.


Working at Biltmore Estate

Perks for frontline workers

From Biltmore Estate, via Breakroom

  • 40% discounts at estate food and beverage and retail locations

  • Year-round access to the estate gardens and grounds

  • Access to the Clinic on Biltmore Estate at no cost

  • Access to Employee Assistance Network, Biltmore Cares Chaplains program, and Eblen Charities

  • Company training and development programs

  • Paid sick/emergency leave (flexible & full-time employees)

  • Paid holidays (flexible & full-time employees)

  • Eligibility to participate in company profit-sharing program (based on seniority; for flexible and full-time employee)

  • Eligibility to contribute to 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match (flexible and full-time employee)

  • Paid vacation (full-time employees)

About Biltmore Estate, in their own words

From Biltmore Estate

Completed in 1895, Biltmore was created as a grand estate for George and Edith Vanderbilt, their family, and friends. America’s Largest Home® was intended to be an escape, offering the pleasures of country life where every wish was anticipated and fulfilled.

That is the legacy that inspires our 2,000 employees: providing world-class service and gracious hospitality to every guest while preserving and protecting a beloved American icon.

Company values

From Biltmore Estate

Biltmore welcomes, respects, supports, and values diverse guests and employees, not only because it is the right thing to do, but also because it is essential for the preservation of this special place for generations to come. Through what we call a REACH mindset (Recognition, Empathy, Accountability, Curiosity, and Humility), we build relationships to create inclusive communities, develop and empower diverse leadership, and invest in team and community development.

Our company culture is guided by a legacy of serving our guests and each other with the gracious hospitality for which George Vanderbilt was known. Biltmore is still family-owned and remains passionate about fostering a welcoming and inclusive oasis from everyday life for our guests and each other.

Diversity and inclusion statement

From Biltmore Estate

By building equitable and inclusive practices, Biltmore attracts and empowers a workforce as diverse as the 1.7 million+ annual guests that we serve. Our efforts are aimed at empowering our current 2,000+ employees while concurrently creating the workforce of the future.

We’re fortifying these efforts through the establishment of clear and ambitious goals, along with developing strategies and pipelines to enhance diverse representation at Biltmore.


What Biltmore Estate employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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