Whitewater Raft Guide School

Become a professional raft guide at the largest man-made whitewater facility in the world. From the classroom to the river, our top-notch instructors teach all of the necessary skills expected of a professional raft guide – no prior experience is necessary.

The U.S. National Whitewater Center (USNWC) is seeking full and part-time, seasonal Raft Guides. Top graduates of Guide School will be given the opportunity to advance into the USNWC’s qualifying check-out process. Upon qualification, a fun, physical, and customer-interactive job awaits.

Attending guide school does not guarantee a job at the USNWC.

Price

$175

Ages

17+ Years Old

Duration

6 days

Schedule

Daily Schedule 9:00am – 5:30pm

9:00am – 5:30pm

Information

Tuition Reimbursement

Tuition reimbursement is available for Guide School graduates who are hired by the USNWC and complete the season in good standing with the USNWC Management.

Prerequisites

You must be at least 17 years of age or older.

Adequate level of physical fitness, swimming capability, and comfort in and around moving water.

Please note, a current First Aid, CPR & AED Certification is not a prerequisite for Guide School, but is required for active employment – courses are offered by the USNWC.

Registration

Please contact Guest Services to register.
email: info@usnwc.org
phone: 704-391-3900

FAQ

Is prior experience required to be a raft guide?

No prior experience is required. Raft Guide School training is required before beginning work.

Do I need certifications to be a raft guide?

First Aid and CPR certification is required prior to starting work. First Aid, CPR, & AED Certification courses are offered at the Whitewater Center.

What topics are covered in raft guide training?

Orientation and hydrology
Gear, rafts/equipment, paddle strokes, student guided runs on the Wilderness Channel (Class II and Class III whitewater)
Knots and ropes, student guided runs on Wilderness Channel, flip drills
Basic swift water rescue, emergency and weather related protocol, student guided challenge runs down the Wilderness Channel
Student guided runs on the Competition Channel (Class III and Class IV whitewater), surfing on the Wilderness Channel
Student challenge runs on the Competition Channel