River Guide School: Whitewater Training in Junction City, CA
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
5 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate to good physical fitness and be comfortable swimming, paddling, and hiking with gear.
Overview
Ready to conquer California’s wild waters? Join the River Guide School for a 5-day immersive whitewater rafting guide training on the Trinity River in Junction City. Learn from experts, camp by the river, and build skills to lead your own adventures.
River Guide School
Five Days • 9am to 5pm Daily • Up to 15 People
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About This Adventure
Join an exhilarating 5-day course to become a professional whitewater raft guide! Experience hands-on training on the stunning Trinity River, mastering essential skills like steering, navigating rapids, and river safety. With expert instructors, free camping, and provided gear, you'll gain the confidence to lead adventures and safely explore the wild waters.
About
Monday May 19th- Friday May 23rd, 2025
What: We will teach you all the basics on being a professional commercial whitewater raft guide.
This class will include outdoor classroom and lots of hands-on practice on the river, as well some ropes instruction on land.
At the end you will have to basic knowledge to apply for a job as a whitewater raft guide, and or take your friends and family out safely on the river.
Training will include but isn't limited to how to:
Preparing and Rigging a Raft for a day on the water Steering a raft with a paddle, also known affectionately as 'stick guiding' Using your crew to maneuver through rapids Learning about obstacles in the river, and how to avoid them What are 'Holes' in the river, and how to expertly maneuve through them 'Reading the river' - How to understand Flow, Currents, CFS, Eddies, and more! 'Lines' for rapids, and instruction on the many ways to run a rapid Understanding, Catching and Using 'Eddies' How to get off rocks if you become stuck in a rapid- Oh so important! Swimming rapids, and the most effective and safe ways to do so. Flipping over an Overturned Raft Hand Signals for effective communication on the river Making lunches.... river style! How to use a Rescue Bag, also known as a 'Throw Bag' Safety and Paddle Talks for customers.
...And more!
This noncompetitive 5-day class will be done mostly on the class III+ Pigeon Point section of the Trinity River and may include a day on some harder, class IV whitewater (flow dependent). Free camping and parking onsite at Six Rivers Rafting in Junction City is included as is lunch each day. All rafting gear is provided at no extra charge. Minimum of 1 instructor per every 5 students.
Minimum of 1 instructor per every 5 students.
Adventure Tips
Wear layered clothing
Temperatures can vary widely on the river, so layering helps you stay comfortable throughout the day.
Stay hydrated
Bring plenty of water and drink often, especially when training intensively in summer heat.
Practice proper river safety
Always listen carefully to instructors and never underestimate the power of the rapids.
Prepare for camping
Bring a warm sleeping bag and waterproof gear to ensure a comfortable night at the free campgrounds.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- River otters
- Bald eagles
History
The Trinity River has been a vital route and resource for Native American tribes and later gold miners during the 1800s.
Conservation
The program emphasizes Leave No Trace principles and supports local river conservation efforts to protect this wild river ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in Eureka
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Quick-dry clothing
Dries fast to keep you comfortable during long days on the water.
summer specific
Waterproof dry bag
Keeps personal items dry while rafting and camping.
Neoprene wetsuit or splash jacket
Provides insulation during cooler springtime water conditions.
spring specific
Sturdy water shoes
Protects feet on rocky riverbanks and during rafting.