What are the responsibilities and job description for the Whitewater Rafting Guide (No Previous Experience) position at American Adventure Expeditions?
Our nationally recognized Raft Guide Training Program is required for anyone who is not currently a certified guide but would like to become one. It's taught by some of the finest and most experienced instructors in the state of Colorado. In order to properly prepare you and equip you with all of the necessary tools, we more than double the requirements set forth by Colorado Parks and Wildlife for new Raft Guides.
The training program is approximately 3 weeks long May 18th through June 3rd and the cost to participate in the course is $450. Minimum age to become a guide is 19 years old.
Guide Training Program Includes:
- Overview of all equipment used on half-day and full-day river trips, maintenance and repair of boats, First Aid Kits, Sweep Kits etc.
- Classroom discussion on basic hydrology, swift water rescue techniques, ropes and knots, Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations and expectations.
- Hours of daily hands-on experience including:Equipment
- Rigging and de-rigging boats
- Paddle strokes
- Boat maneuvering
- Reading water
- Hazards
- Rapids
- Rescue Methods
- Flipping and recovering
- Pinning and unpinning boats
- Swimming in moving water
- Knowledge of all important aspects of all river sections, put-in/take-out locations, rapid names, proper lines through rapids, emergency access points, backboard locations, lunch spots, photo spots...etc.
- History and geology of the region
- Training the commercial guest
- Keeping a river journal documenting river miles, hours and skills performed
- Soft skills such as dealing with group dynamics, outdoor leadership and proper protocol
Please Note: Whitewater rafting is a physically demanding activity not only as a participant but especially as a guide. Our training program consists of many long days on and off of the water, as well as many physical and mental stresses. There are inherent risks involved and good physical condition is essential for all of our employees.
- If you have any medical conditions or physical limitations please consult a physician before attending our guide training program.
- During training you are not considered an employee of American Adventure Expeditions, and therefore are not eligible for workers compensation benefits. We highly recommend having health insurance so that you are properly covered during the training program.