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Trail Riding Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SPSV ENTERTAINMENT LLC

$16.90 - $18/hr

Trail Crew/Bike Instructor employees work across all areas of the bike park, including Trail Patrol ... Educate guests to improve riding skills and promote safe riding practices. * Demonstrate proper ...

Aramark

$70K - $75K/yr

Guest Services & Trail Rides: * Coordinate and manage horseback riding tours, pony rides, and special equestrian events. * Foster a welcoming, friendly environment for all guests, ensuring high ...

Aramark

$28/hr

Job Responsibilities • Lead guests on guided trail rides • Provides lessons to guests on basic horsemanship, riding, and horse care • Interacts with guests to ensure rides are educational and ...

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Trail Riding information

What is trail riding?

Trail riding is a recreational activity where individuals ride horses along designated trails, typically through forests, mountains, fields, or other natural landscapes. It is enjoyed by people of all skill levels and can involve short rides or multi-day excursions. Trail riding offers the opportunity to connect with nature, improve horsemanship skills, and enjoy the companionship of horses in a relaxed, scenic environment. Safety, respect for nature, and proper horse care are essential components of trail riding.

What is the difference between Trail Riding vs Horseback Riding?

AspectTrail RidingHorseback Riding
CertificationsOptional; experience recommendedOptional; experience recommended
Work EnvironmentOutdoor trails, natural settingsVaries; outdoor or indoor arenas
Industry UsageRecreational, tourism, equestrian sportsRecreational, competitive, therapeutic

Trail Riding specifically involves riding horses on outdoor trails and natural terrains, often for recreation or tourism. Horseback Riding is a broader term that includes various riding styles, including trail riding, arena riding, and competitive disciplines. While both require basic riding skills, trail riding emphasizes outdoor experience and navigation, whereas horseback riding can encompass a wider range of activities and environments.

What are some common challenges faced by trail riding guides, and how can they be addressed?

Trail riding guides often encounter challenges such as managing groups with varying riding abilities, ensuring safety on uneven terrain, and handling unexpected situations like spooked horses or sudden weather changes. To address these, guides should conduct thorough pre-ride briefings, match horses to riders' experience levels, and maintain strong communication throughout the ride. Developing quick problem-solving skills and staying calm under pressure are crucial, as is having proper first aid and emergency training to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

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

To thrive as a Trail Riding Guide, you need strong horsemanship, knowledge of trail safety, and often certifications in first aid or equine management. Familiarity with GPS devices, equestrian tack, and communication radios is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and leadership are crucial soft skills for guiding riders and handling unexpected situations. These skills ensure the safety, enjoyment, and confidence of both riders and horses during trail excursions.
What are popular job titles related to Trail Riding jobs in California? For Trail Riding jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trail Riding jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Trail Riding jobs in California are:
Trail Riding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trail Riding job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Trail Crew/Bike Instructor

SPSV ENTERTAINMENT LLC

On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Description:

Trail Crew/Bike Instructor employees work across all areas of the bike park, including Trail Patrol, Trail Crew, and instructional duties. This position operates within the Bike Park Operations Department and reports directly to the Bike Park Operations Manager and Supervisor. Employees are scheduled based on operational needs and are expected to provide excellent customer service, maintain trails, enforce safety standards, and respond to incidents in a time-sensitive outdoor environment.


This role works closely with the Safety Team in response to incidents and collaborates with Admissions, Marketing, and Safety to communicate trail status, updates, and closures to ensure accurate and timely guest information.


This is a seasonal position requiring availability on weekends and holidays.


Responsibilities

  • Assist with construction, patrol, and maintenance of all trails throughout SkyPark.
  • Ensure trails are safe and operational by clearing rocks, debris, and managing dust control.
  • Dig, water, and maintain trails to minimize dust and erosion.
  • Cut and clear trees and branches to maintain safe trail access.
  • Assist with set-up and breakdown of bike park events; races and events.
  • Ensure all tools are maintained and properly stored at the beginning and end of each shift.
  • Educate guests to improve riding skills and promote safe riding practices.
  • Demonstrate proper training techniques to create a safe learning environment.
  • Inspect guest equipment prior to lessons to ensure proper working condition.
  • Maintain an approachable presence and assist guests with questions or concerns.
  • Actively promote bike lessons and coordinate sign-ups through the Bike Shop.
  • Keep maintenance tools off trails while trails are open to guests.
  • Maintain all wood features and man-made trail elements.
  • Patrol trails to identify hazards and prevent injuries through guest education.
  • Assist the Safety Team with injured guests and respond to incidents as needed.
  • Communicate trail conditions, closures, and operational updates to Admissions, Marketing, and Safety teams in a timely and accurate manner.
  • Lead small volunteer crews as assigned.
  • Work with children of all ages.
  • Make quick, safety-focused decisions in dynamic environments.
  • Report all incidents, repairs, and guest feedback to the Bike Park Operations Manager.
  • Perform all other duties as assigned.



Qualifications

  • Passion for outdoor recreation, conservation, and environmental stewardship.
  • Experience in trail maintenance, construction, or outdoor leadership preferred.
  • Strong mountain biking skills on Green (beginner) and Blue (intermediate) trails required.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Knowledge of trail building techniques and Leave No Trace principles preferred.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Live Scan background check required (provided by SkyPark).
  • CPR and First Aid certification preferred (training provided if needed).
  • Must pass SkyPark Instructor Certification Test.


Physical Requirements & Work Environment

  • Ability to work outdoors for extended periods (up to 90% of the shift) in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, sun exposure, and uneven terrain.
  • Frequent physical activity including hiking, biking, digging, bending, kneeling, and standing for long periods.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds with or without assistance.
  • Ability to safely operate hand tools and equipment used in trail construction and maintenance.
  • Ability to respond quickly to emergencies and navigate rugged terrain.
  • Exposure to dust, dirt, and natural outdoor elements.
  • Potential exposure to body fluids or other biohazards; required to use provided protective equipment.
  • Ability to visually assess trail conditions and identify hazards.


Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


Requirements: