Guide School Raft Training in Durango, Colorado
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have good physical stamina and balance to handle prolonged river time and varied weather conditions.
Overview
Ready to become a professional raft guide? Spend six dynamic days in Durango, Colorado, mastering river navigation, safety, and customer service with expert instruction and top-tier gear from Durango Rivertrippers.
Guide School
Ages 18+
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating journey as a professional raft guide this summer! Experience the thrill of navigating multiple rivers while honing your leadership and customer service skills. Over six action-packed days, you'll receive essential training, gear up with expert equipment, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow adventurers in stunning Colorado.
About
If you are looking for an adventurous, exciting, and fast-paced summer job then look no further. Working as a professional raft guide on MULTIPLE RIVERS is a highly rewarding job where you get to be outside, stay in shape, work with awesome people, and gain important customer service and leadership skills.
Every day of guide school we will meet at our River Office at 360 S. Camino Del Rio Durango Colorado 81301. We recommend bringing lunch, snacks and lots of water. Bring extra layers and dry clothes for after each day, the weather can change very quickly and does get cold fast.
Schedule for the week (subject to change)
Day 1
- Arrive in the morning, get to meet everyone, and go over introductions and expectations for the week.
- Gear check out for the week. This includes lifejackets, throw bags, river shoes and wetsuits (if needed), dry bags, and helmets.
- Go over equipment from rafts to trailers.
- Rigging and de-rigging both rafts and trailers
- Break for lunch
- In the afternoon we will get on the water!
- How to load your raft with guests
Day 2-5
- For the next few days we will go over Safety orientation/speech
- One day will be dedicated to Flip training.
- Another day is dedicated to Swim training
Day 6
- On the final day of guide school we will be doing our check out runs through the white water park.
- After day 6 you will have accumulated the state required 50 hours of training to be a Colorado State certified guide.
- There are no make up days for guide school. Make sure you are on time ready to go each day.
Adventure Tips
Stay Hydrated During Training
Bring and drink plenty of water each day to stay energized and focused while on the river.
Wear Quick-Dry Clothing
Dress in synthetic, moisture-wicking layers to stay comfortable both on and off the water.
Listen Carefully to Safety Briefings
Pay close attention during safety and rescue instruction—it’s critical for both your and guests’ well-being.
Practice River Etiquette
Respect the natural environment and fellow river users to maintain a positive experience for everyone.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- River otters
- Bald eagles
History
Durango’s location is steeped in mining and railroad history, influencing its outdoor recreation culture and river use.
Conservation
Local guides and outfitters are committed to low-impact practices to preserve river health and native habitats for future visitors.
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Adventure Hotspots in Durango
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
A well-fitting PFD is crucial for safety during river training and excursions.
summer specific
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your gear dry throughout training days on the river.
Quick-Dry Shirt and Pants
Lightweight technical clothing helps you stay comfortable on and off the water.
summer specific
Sun Protection (Hat & Sunscreen)
Protect your skin from strong UV exposure during long outdoor days.
summer specific