Salary Information
Wilderness Guides in America make an average salary of $53,106 per year or $26 per hour. The average trout guide brings home around $40,000 a year. Highly in-demand guides can earn up to $85,000 a year. Although Sherpa Guides make a mere $4,000 each climbing season, this is more money than the average person in Nepal makes.
In general, you can expect a hiking guide to make $120–$250 per day. Entry-level professionals typically start at around $15 per hour. Additionally, some guides supplement their income by teaching classes related to backpacking or wilderness navigation.
The average adventure guide salary in the USA is $27,300 per year or $13.13 per hour.
Becoming a Guide
Qualifications and Training
- Wilderness first aid and survival skills certifications
- Outdoor leadership training
Traditional employers are private guiding services, where guides take clients on hikes and excursions for days or weeks.
How to Apply
To apply for enrollment in the Hiking Guide certificate exam:
- Complete the TAP application form
- Submit education, employment history, and reference letters confirming supervised work experience
- Coursework through world leaders in outdoor education like NOLS or Outward Bound will help you develop the skills needed to work in the industry
To become a hiking guide in BC:
- Complete TAP application form
- Submit resume, reference letter confirming 20 days supervised work experience
- Reach out to clients to offer unique experiences
Adventurous Jobs List
Here are 15 adventurous jobs you can pursue:
- Deckhand
- Adventure guide
- Ski instructor
- Park ranger