How Much Do Backpacking Guides Make?

By Anna Duncan

Backpacking guides are people who lead and mentor others on backpacking trips. They are responsible for the safety and well-being of their group, as well as providing a fun and educational experience. Backpacking guides must be physically fit, experienced in the outdoors, knowledgeable about the environment, and have excellent leadership skills.

Qualifications to Become a Backpacking Guide

In order to become a backpacking guide, there are certain qualifications that must be met. Most companies require their guides to have at least one year of experience leading backcountry trips.

Guides should also possess First Aid certification, CPR certification, and Wilderness First Responder certification. Additionally, guides must be able to carry a heavy pack over difficult terrain while still maintaining safety standards.

Average Salary of a Backpacking Guide

The salary of a backpacking guide varies depending on experience and geographic location. According to PayScale, the average salary for an entry-level backpacking guide is around $15 an hour.

Experienced guides can make up to $25 an hour or more depending on the company they work for. Additionally, many backpacking guides supplement their income with tips from satisfied clients.

Benefits of Being a Backpacking Guide

Being a backpacking guide can be both rewarding and challenging at the same time. Not only do you get to travel to some of the most beautiful places in the world but you also get to meet new people from all walks of life and teach them about the wonders of nature and outdoor activities. Being a guide also provides great networking opportunities with other outdoor professionals which can lead to future job opportunities or collaborations.

Conclusion

Backpacking guides play an important role in helping people experience nature in its purest form while staying safe at the same time. The salary for these professionals depends on their experience level but is usually between $15-$25 per hour with tips added on top of that amount depending on customer satisfaction levels.

Being a backpacking guide can be both rewarding and challenging at the same time but offers amazing opportunities for personal growth as well as networking with other outdoor professionals. All in all, becoming a backpacking guide can be an incredibly fulfilling career choice for those who love spending time outdoors!

How Much Do Backpacking Guides Make?

Backpacking guides typically make between $15-$25 an hour depending on their experience level and geographic location, with additional tips added on top of that amount often depending on customer satisfaction levels.