This class is only intended for people who are interested in employment not for the general public.
If you are fired up about learning how to row whitewater, work outside, and build real river skills, this is where it starts.
As one of the first rafting companies in Durango, Colorado, we know a thing or two about training strong, confident raft guides. Our guests consistently rank us #1 on Google, and that reputation starts with guide education. When you train with us, you are learning from a company with deep roots and real river mileage.
Durango Rivertrippers & Adventure Tours, Flexible Flyers Raft & Jeep, and 4 Corners Whitewater operate as three local companies in one. That means more rivers, more opportunities, and more hands on experience. We are based in Durango but also operate in Moab, Utah and Northern New Mexico, giving rookie guides exposure to multiple regions, river styles, and trip formats.
Becoming a state certified raft guide is more than just a job. It is a skill set that keeps you active, builds leadership, and gives you lifelong river knowledge. You work with driven people, stay in shape, and spend your days learning how to read water, manage risk, and take care of guests on moving rivers.
Our guides train and work on the Upper and Lower Animas, Dolores, San Miguel, Piedra, Rio Chama, Ruby Horsethief, Westwater on the Colorado River, and daily runs in Moab. We run both day trips and multiday expeditions, so rookie guides learn how to rig boats, pack gear, manage camps, and guide overnight river trips, not just quick laps.
If you are looking for an adventurous, fast paced skill that opens doors across the rafting industry, this is a strong place to grow.
During our guide school, you will receive a minimum of 50 hours of training. We do not waste your time and labor helping set up the company but instead, ensure your training is dedicated to the fundamentals of learning to raft and ending with a certificate confirming your certification as a raft guide.
Your training will include how to rig and de-rig boats, paddle guide and/or oar guide, how to read water, white water swimming, rope rescue, and much more. Our graduates will receive a river guide certificate/log certifying them as raft guides within the State of Colorado. This is a lifelong skill that you will certainly enjoy having. The best part is if you want to work as a guide in the area, we are hiring! Although there is no guarantee of employment after guide school we are looking for raft guides. During the class, we will ensure you have the correct gear as well. You will have access at NO EXTRA CHARGE to use the following: Wetsuit, PFD (aka type 5 life jacket), River shoes, Helmet, and Drybag. All you need to do is show up to the class and we have you covered.
Guide School 1 ~ with Multi-Day $250 8 Days
Guide School 2 ~ hours Sunday-Friday 50+ Hours $250
If hired pay range is $15 per hour.
Also check out other Workshops in Durango, Trips & Adventurous Activities in Durango, Sports events in Durango.
