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Outdoor Tour Guide Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sugar Bowl Resort

$21 - $24/hr

... outdoors in extreme High Sierra winter weather for extended periods • Comfortable lifting, carrying, and maneuvering rescue sleds and injured guests, often over 50 lbs with assistance • Manual ...

New

Sugar Bowl Resort

RGXC Ski Patroller

Soda Springs, CA · On-site

Capable of skiing all Royal Gorge terrain Capable of working outdoors in extreme High Sierra winter weather for extended periods Comfortable lifting, carrying, and maneuvering rescue sleds and ...

New

Department of Parks & Recreation

Guide I

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$4.2K - $5.2K/mo

Guide I staff assist visitors at the Information Desk, School Registration Desk, and tour desk by ... outdoor recreation. All employees are responsible for contributing to an inclusive, safe, and ...

New

Alliance Redwoods

Zip Line Guide

Occidental, CA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

... guides with pre-tour and post-tour set-up and clean-up * Regularly inspect facilities for ... Work outdoors in all weather conditions (heat, cold, wind, and/or rain) * Able to hike 100 yards ...

Alliance Redwoods

Zip Line Guide

Sebastopol, CA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

... guides with pre-tour and post-tour set-up and clean-up * Regularly inspect facilities for ... Work outdoors in all weather conditions (heat, cold, wind, and/or rain) * Able to hike 100 yards ...

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Outdoor Tour Guide information

What is an outdoor tour guide?

Outdoor tour guides are professionals who lead groups or individuals on excursions, adventures, or educational trips in natural or outdoor settings. They provide information about the environment, history, wildlife, and safety procedures relevant to the location. Outdoor tour guides are responsible for ensuring the safety and enjoyment of their guests, while also sharing insights and fostering appreciation for nature and local culture. Their duties may vary depending on the type of tour, such as hiking, kayaking, or wildlife watching.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an outdoor tour guide?

To thrive as an Outdoor Tour Guide, you need a solid understanding of local geography, natural history, and safety procedures, often supported by first aid certification and relevant guiding licenses. Familiarity with GPS devices, radios, and reservation management systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help guides engage groups and handle unexpected situations. These skills are essential to ensure guest safety, deliver informative and enjoyable experiences, and maintain a strong professional reputation.

What are common challenges outdoor tour guides face during tours, and how can they be managed?

Outdoor Tour Guides often encounter unpredictable weather, varying group dynamics, and unexpected trail or site conditions. Managing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and thorough preparation before each tour. Guides typically carry backup supplies, maintain clear communication with guests, and stay updated on local conditions to ensure safety and an enjoyable experience for everyone. Building rapport with groups and staying flexible helps address concerns on the spot and keeps the tour running smoothly.

What is the difference between Outdoor Tour Guide vs Hiking Guide?

AspectOutdoor Tour GuideHiking Guide
CertificationsFirst aid, CPR, outdoor safetyFirst aid, CPR, outdoor safety
Work EnvironmentVarious outdoor activities, including rafting, camping, adventure toursPrimarily hiking trails, mountain terrains
Employer & IndustryTour companies, adventure parks, travel agenciesOutdoor recreation companies, national parks, adventure outfitters
Search & Comparison IntentOutdoor Tour Guide vs Hiking GuideOutdoor Tour Guide vs Hiking Guide

Both roles involve guiding outdoor activities, but Outdoor Tour Guides typically lead a variety of adventure experiences, while Hiking Guides focus specifically on trail and mountain hikes. Certifications like first aid and outdoor safety are common to both, and they often work for similar employers in the outdoor recreation industry.

What cities in California are hiring for Outdoor Tour Guide jobs?

Cities in California with the most Outdoor Tour Guide job openings:

Outdoor Tour Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Tour Guide job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution.

Tour Guide

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

Buena Park, CA • On-site

$16.90/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 2 days ago

Six Flags rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 531 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 58 rated theme parks

Job description

Overview
$16.90 / hour
A Tour Guide leads groups of children and adults on educational tours through the park presenting educational information and
interacting in an appropriate manner with tour group members.
Working with us is an opportunity that can pay off for years to come - with skills, knowledge, experiences and friends that can last a lifetime!
A Seasonal job with us can lead to a successful future. That's because you will:
  • Develop resume-building skills to help achieve your career goals
  • Work in a welcoming and diverse environment
  • Gain knowledge through training programs and work experience

Responsibilities
Conducts Educational Tours: Following a predetermined itinerary; escorts tour groups from one predetermined venue to the next and shares scripted educational information related to each tour venue; use prewritten script to provide an interactive experience with a character related to the tour.
Develops Contingencies: Remains flexible and adjusts itinerary to accommodate restroom breaks and hydration needs of tour members; late arrival of tours; cancelled entertainment and closed attractions; or any other unforeseen event.
Completes Administrative Duties: Accurately completes all required pre and post tour paperwork by set deadlines.
Qualifications
  • Ability to speak in front of a group of guests and manage groups of people.
  • A genuine interest in making people feel welcome using your smile and positive nature
  • Keen to be a part of something you believe in, providing fun while having fun at work
  • Openness to learn, grow and develop skills
  • Commitment to your team by being on time and working scheduled shifts
  • Desire to be outdoors for extended periods in all weather conditions
  • Ability to work nights, weekends and holiday periods to meet business needs.
  • Ability to pass a background check, if 18 years of age or older, which may include, but is not limited to, credit, criminal, DMV, previous employment, education and personal references, per Company policy, unless prohibited by federal, state, or provincial law.

What Six Flags employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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