ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Rafting Guide Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

CommonSpirit Health

Primary Care Physician

Pueblo, CO · On-site

$296K/yr

You will provide essential preventive care, guide patients through health maintenance strategies ... Southern Colorado location provides easy access to mountains, Arkansas River recreation (rafting ...

CHI Health at Home

Primary Care Physician

Pueblo, CO

Southern Colorado location provides easy access to mountains, Arkansas River recreation (rafting ... You will provide essential preventive care, guide patients through health maintenance strategies ...

NVA

Emergency Veterinarian

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$135K/yr

... rafting, and climbing, along with a thriving arts and culinary scene. It is the perfect place to ... ABVP Guided program offers a path that meets you where you are, allowing you to reach your ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsRafting Guide JobsRafting Guide Jobs in Colorado

Rafting Guide information

See Colorado salary details

$10

$16

$23

How much do rafting guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for rafting guide in Colorado is $16.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $15.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rafting guide?

Rafting guides are trained professionals who lead and navigate groups of people on whitewater rafting trips. They are responsible for ensuring the safety of participants, providing instructions on paddling techniques, and reading river conditions to avoid hazards. Rafting guides also enhance the experience by sharing information about the local environment and wildlife. Their expertise is crucial for making rafting adventures both exciting and safe.

What are common challenges faced by rafting guides and how can they be managed?

Rafting Guides often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, varying river conditions, and managing the safety and expectations of diverse groups of participants. Effective communication, thorough pre-trip briefings, and strong situational awareness are key to addressing these challenges. Guides must be prepared to adapt routes, provide clear instructions, and maintain a calm demeanor under pressure to ensure both safety and a positive guest experience. Being proactive in equipment checks and staying updated on river conditions also help mitigate risks and keep trips running smoothly.

What is the difference between Rafting Guide vs Kayaking Instructor?

AspectRafting GuideKayaking Instructor
CertificationsWilderness First Aid, CPR, rafting guides licenseCPR, First Aid, kayaking instructor certification
Work EnvironmentRivers, outdoor adventure settings, group toursRivers, lakes, outdoor classes, individual or group instruction
Industry UsageTour operators, adventure companiesOutdoor recreation centers, adventure schools

Rafting Guides and Kayaking Instructors both work in outdoor water environments and often require similar safety certifications. However, rafting guides typically lead larger groups on rivers using rafts, while kayaking instructors focus on teaching individuals or small groups how to kayak. Both roles are essential in the outdoor adventure industry, but they differ in equipment, techniques, and specific job responsibilities.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a rafting guide?

To thrive as a Rafting Guide, you need strong paddling skills, water safety knowledge, and first aid/CPR certification, often supported by swiftwater rescue training. Familiarity with rafting equipment, river navigation tools, and communication systems like radios is essential. Outstanding leadership, quick decision-making, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help deliver safe and enjoyable experiences for clients. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring guest safety, handling emergencies, and providing exceptional outdoor adventures.
What are popular job titles related to Rafting Guide jobs in Colorado? For Rafting Guide jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rafting Guide jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Rafting Guide jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Rafting Guide jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Rafting Guide job openings:
Rafting Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rafting Guide job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,341 per year, or $17 per hour.

Associate Manager Retail/Guest Services-2

The Outlaw Group

Idaho Springs, CO • On-site

$16K - $19K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Join the Team!

At the Outlaw Group, we believe in the adventure, and in living day to day, in what is real and in front of us. Not only do we seek to provide unforgettable experiences for our guests, but we encourage our employees to reimagine the best of Colorado's outdoor spaces and urban areas. We are adventurers, innovators, and explorers, and we look for employees that share this same passion for life. We intend to grow together, testing the boundaries of what is possible, as we constantly consider new ways to challenge ourselves and industry standards.

Job Description:Outpost Management Team - Retail & Guest Services Manager

Location(s): Kremmling, CO. Idaho Springs, CO. Buena Vista, CO

Work Season: Full time and Part Time, May 2026 to September 2026,

Relocation?: Would you be moving to Colorado for this summer gig? AVA does offer some employee living accommodations across our locations.

Pay Rate: SALARIED POSITION: $16,500 to $19,800 for the summer (May to September)
AVA is seeking enthusiastic, well organized and dynamic individuals with a passion for the outdoors to join our management team across our outpost. In this role you will help maintain a organized and well functioning work environment serving many outdoor adventures to the world.

*NOTE* This job does require onsite location in Colorado, the company does have options areas for employees to live during the summerWhat You'll Do

  • Assist in planning and managing outpost retail operations.

  • Manage and assist a team of guest service staff.

  • Stock items.

  • Mange POS systems.

  • Help check in guest.

  • Assist customers and provide excellent customer service.

  • Help manage and maintain outpost facilities for guest(s).

  • Maintain equipment, gear, and the work area.

  • Coordinate outpost operations with outdoor guides.

  • Handle and assist in customer service.

  • Having a great time outdoors with guest and coworkers!

What we Look For

  • Previous management experience.

  • Experience with guest services.

  • Experience with in person sales.

  • Experience in outdoor tourism and recreational industries.

  • Strong teamwork skills.

  • People with an emphasis on customer care.

  • Individuals with strong customer service skills and previous management skills.

  • Individuals with up-to-date CPR, First Aid, and other training is always a plus!

Work Availability

Full Time ~ 40 hours
Holidays (4th of July)

Benefits

Gear discounts! AVA works with many companies in the outdoor industry, as an AVA employee you have access to discounts strictly for outdoor industry professionals across many major brands such as North face, Yeti, Patagonia, and more.

Why Apply Today?

Whether it's your love for the Rockies, soaking up the sun, meeting new friends, or trying something new - AVA offers all this as a Whitewater Raft Guide!

Apply here or through our job portal today!

https://theoutlawgroup.wd501.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/theoutlawgroupcareers

If you are interested in joining the AVA Team this summer, then please apply today! AVA strives to deliver the very highest level of guest service while bringing awareness and understanding of the surrounding wilderness to our guests. As leaders in our industry, we set examples in safety, professionalism, outdoor skills and guest service, while providing low-impact environmental recreation.

AVA Rafting & Zip Line is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law.

Apply