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Summer Backpacking information

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$7

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$22

How much do summer backpacking jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer backpacking in the United States is $15.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a summer backpacking job?

A summer backpacking job typically involves leading or assisting outdoor trips, such as hiking or camping excursions, for groups during the summer months. These jobs are often found at summer camps, outdoor adventure programs, or travel companies, and require staff to guide participants, ensure safety, and teach outdoor skills. Employees spend extended periods outdoors, carrying gear, and may be responsible for trip planning, cooking, and group management. It's an ideal role for those who enjoy nature, teamwork, and helping others experience the outdoors.

What is the difference between Summer Backpacking vs Summer Camp Counselor?

AspectSummer BackpackingSummer Camp Counselor
Required CredentialsMinimal; outdoor skills beneficialCPR/First Aid certification often required
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, remote, travel-focusedCampgrounds, recreational facilities, group settings
Employer & IndustryOutdoor adventure companies, travel agenciesSummer camps, recreational organizations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Summer Backpacking involves traveling and exploring outdoors, often independently or in small groups, focusing on adventure and self-sufficiency. Summer Camp Counselors work at organized camps, supervising children and facilitating activities. While both roles are outdoor-oriented, backpacking emphasizes travel and exploration, whereas camp counseling centers on supervision and activity management in a camp setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Summer Backpacking Guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Summer Backpacking Guide, you need strong outdoor survival skills, first aid certification, and extensive knowledge of navigation and wilderness safety. Familiarity with GPS devices, map and compass use, and basic outdoor gear is typically required, along with certifications like Wilderness First Responder (WFR). Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help guides manage group dynamics and respond to emergencies. These abilities are crucial for ensuring group safety, delivering positive experiences, and handling unexpected situations in remote environments.

What are some common challenges faced by guides leading summer backpacking trips, and how can they be managed?

Guides leading summer backpacking trips often face challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, group dynamics, and ensuring the safety and well-being of participants. Managing these challenges involves thorough planning, effective communication, and adaptability. Guides must be prepared to modify routes if necessary, address group concerns promptly, and monitor for signs of dehydration, fatigue, or injury. Building a supportive team environment helps everyone enjoy a safe and rewarding outdoor experience.
More about Summer Backpacking jobs
What cities are hiring for Summer Backpacking jobs? Cities with the most Summer Backpacking job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Backpacking jobs? The most popular types of Backpacking jobs are:
What states have the most Summer Backpacking jobs? States with the most job openings for Summer Backpacking jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Summer Backpacking jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Summer Backpacking jobs are:
Summer Backpacking jobs near you
Infographic showing various Summer Backpacking job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 43% Full Time, and 55% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,041 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

High Adventure - Backpacking & Rock Climbing Instructor

Girl Scouts of Utah

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

$97/day

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Description

High Adventure  - Backpacking & Rock Climbing Instructor

Camp Cloud Rim - Park City, Utah

Spend Your Summer Leading Outdoor Adventures in the Mountains!


Girl Scouts of Utah is hiring a High Adventure Backpacking & Rock Climbing Instructor for Camp Cloud Rim in beautiful Park City, Utah. If you are passionate about rock climbing, backpacking, hiking, and helping young people build confidence through outdoor experiences, this is the summer job for you.

This position plays a key role in creating safe, challenging, and memorable outdoor adventures for campers while supporting the mission of Girl Scouts of Utah.


Why Work at Camp Cloud Rim?

  • Work and live in the beautiful Wasatch Mountains
  • Lead climbing, hiking, and backpacking adventures
  • Gain valuable leadership and outdoor education experience
  • Make a lasting impact on the lives of youth
  • Build lifelong friendships with fellow camp staff
  • Room and board provided while camp is in session
  • Spend your summer outdoors instead of behind a desk

Position Summary

The High Adventure Coordinator is responsible for planning, coordinating, and leading the camp's rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking programs. This position ensures participants have safe, engaging, and age-appropriate outdoor experiences while maintaining compliance with Girl Scouts of the USA, American Camp Association, and local safety standards.

When not facilitating high-adventure activities, this position supports general camp programming and operations to help create a positive experience for all campers and staff.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Plan, develop, and lead rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking programs for campers ages 6-17.
  • Manage climbing areas, equipment, and safety procedures.
  • Teach outdoor skills, climbing techniques,      and backpacking fundamentals.
  • Conduct safety inspections and ensure proper use of equipment.
  • Supervise campers during high-adventure activities and off-site excursions.
  • Maintain accurate program and equipment records.
  • Follow all Girl Scouts of Utah, ACA, and applicable state and local safety standards.
  • Assist with camp-wide activities, special events, and evening programs.
  • Support general camp operations as needed.
  • Serve as a positive role model and mentor for campers and staff.

Requirements

Required

  • Must be at least 21 years old.
  • Ability to become an approved driver for Girl Scouts of Utah (clear driving record, valid driver's license, and proof of insurance).
  • Certification, documented training, or equivalent experience in rock climbing instruction and supervision.
  • Extensive experience hiking and backpacking in outdoor environments.
  • Current First Aid and CPR certification, or ability to obtain before employment.
  • Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and teaching skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with youth from diverse backgrounds.

Preferred

  • Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification.
  • Previous camp, guiding, outdoor recreation, or youth development experience.
  • Experience leading group outdoor adventures.

  Requirements for All Camp Staff

  • Pass a criminal background check, including sex offender registry and driving record checks.
  • Complete Youth Protection Training.
  • Obtain a Utah Food Handler Permit.
  • Follow all Girl Scouts of Utah policies and safety standards.
  • Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, teamwork, and a commitment to providing exceptional experiences for campers.

Physical Requirements

  • Lift and carry equipment and supplies weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Walk, hike, and work on steep, uneven terrain for extended periods.
  • Work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including rain, heat, and cold temperatures.
  • Live and work at elevations up to 9,200 feet.
  • Respond quickly and appropriately in emergencies.

Compensation

$97 per day

Eligible staff who complete the season and meet attendance requirements will receive an additional $10 per day completion bonus.


Additional Benefits

  • Room and board provided while camp is in session
  • Three meals daily plus snacks
  • Professional development and leadership experience
  • Opportunity to work in one of Utah's premier outdoor settings

Summer Camp Dates

June 11 - August 7, 2026


Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Girl Scouts of Utah embraces a pluralistic movement committed to understanding our similarities and differences, building relationships, and fostering a culture of respect, inclusion, and belonging. We believe we are stronger when we welcome diverse perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds.


Apply today and spend your summer inspiring the next generation of adventurers!



Apply