Raft Guide Training on the Arkansas River – Canon City, Colorado

Train with River Runners and become one of the best

CLOSED FOR 2012
If you are interested in becoming a raft guide, but have no previous experience, you can apply for the River Runners Royal Gorge Guide School. Our Royal Gorge Guide School is $500, which includes two weeks of formal training. During this time, trainees are provided wetsuits, splash tops, booties, and personal flotation devices. Participants must provide their own personal gear upon completion of formal training, and will be expected to participate in an additional two weeks of informal training. A qualification run can be attempted after trainees log a minimum of 100 hours and 200 miles on the river. Trainees are not considered employees until they have successfully qualified. The River Runners Royal Gorge Guide School is physically demanding and requires long and sometimes cold days on the river. You can make between $1,500 and $2,500 in your first season not including tips. First-year guides at our Canon City location primarily take rafting trips through Bighorn Sheep Canyon (Class III-IV) on the Arkansas River, but may have opportunities to train on the Royal Gorge (Class IV-V) of the Arkansas River.

You must have a current First Aid and CPR certification by an accredited institution (online courses are not accepted) to participate. Required personal equipment includes a type III pfd, throw bag, flip line, helmet, whistle, and river knife. Additional gear that is recommended includes splash top, splash pants, poly pro, fleece, neoprene socks, and/or similar gear. Pro deals are available through River Runners upon your arrival.

To Apply
Submit your cover letter, résumé, and three references to
Please designate “Guide School Applicant – Canon City, Colorado” in your application.

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