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Whitewater Raft Guide Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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Whitewater Raft Guide information

See Colorado salary details

$10

$16

$23

How much do whitewater raft guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for whitewater raft 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 are some common challenges Whitewater Raft Guides face on the job and how can they prepare for them?

Whitewater Raft Guides often encounter rapidly changing river conditions, unpredictable weather, and the need to manage groups with varying skill levels. Preparation involves thorough knowledge of the river, strong swimming and rescue skills, and effective communication to ensure guest safety and enjoyment. Guides should also be ready to think quickly, remain calm under pressure, and work closely with other guides and support staff to coordinate trips and handle emergencies.

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

To thrive as a Whitewater Raft Guide, you need strong paddling skills, river navigation expertise, and a thorough understanding of safety protocols, often supported by certifications in First Aid, CPR, and swiftwater rescue. Familiarity with specialized equipment such as rafts, throw bags, and personal flotation devices (PFDs) is essential. Outstanding communication, leadership, and crisis management abilities help guides lead groups safely and foster an enjoyable experience. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safety, confidence, and satisfaction of clients in dynamic and potentially hazardous river environments.

What are Whitewater Raft Guides?

Whitewater Raft Guides are trained professionals who lead and navigate groups of people down rivers with varying levels of rapids, ensuring both safety and enjoyment. They are responsible for steering the raft, instructing participants on paddling and safety techniques, and responding to any emergencies that may arise. These guides typically possess strong leadership skills, a thorough knowledge of river dynamics, and certifications in first aid and swiftwater rescue. Their role is essential for providing a fun and safe whitewater rafting experience for adventurers of all skill levels.

What is the difference between Whitewater Raft Guide vs Kayak Instructor?

AspectWhitewater Raft GuideKayak Instructor
CertificationsWilderness First Aid, CPR, rafting guides certificationWilderness First Aid, CPR, kayak instructor certification
Work EnvironmentGroup river trips, outdoor adventure settingsIndividual or group lessons, outdoor or indoor settings
Industry UsageOutdoor adventure, tourism, recreationOutdoor sports, recreation, adventure tourism

Both Whitewater Raft Guides and Kayak Instructors work in outdoor adventure settings, requiring similar certifications like First Aid and CPR. While raft guides lead group river trips, kayak instructors focus on teaching individuals or groups how to kayak. The roles overlap in outdoor recreation and tourism industries, but differ in specific skills and work environments.

Infographic showing various Whitewater Raft Guide job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,341 per year, or $17 per hour.
Associate Manager Retail/Guest Services-2

Associate Manager Retail/Guest Services-2

The Outlaw Group

Kremmling, CO

$16K - $19K/mo

Full-time

Posted 21 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.

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