Jacob Pilkerton “Rufio”
Position: Raft Guide
Birthday: June 12, 1986
Hometown: Hershey, PA
About: Jacob Pilkerton, better known as “Rufio,” loves that he works at the largest man-made whitewater river in the world. “Rufio” is a nickname he has had since high school, based off the character Rufio, leader of the lost boys, from the movie “Hook.” Jacob’s love for the outdoors is what brought him to the USNWC. His favorite thing about being a raft guide is getting to meet new people. During the off-season when he’s not guiding at the USNWC, Jacob is a commercial diver who inspects hydrostatic dams. He also is a passionate river boarder and does a spot-on impression of comedian Mitch Hedberg.
I went to rafting school with this wild man, and he took to the water like a duck to ..well..water! He’s a crazy dude that will make sure you have the time of your life! RRRUUUUFFFFIIIIIOOOOO!!!!!
Peace man!
Already thought he was adorable and now I read he impersonates Mitch Herberg…. Does it get better? Next time I come I’m requesting him!! He gave a great safety speech!
We had a great time out on the rapids yesterday with Rufio! We asked for a "crazy" ride down the rapids and we got it!!! He was a great raft guide and we had an awesome time, can’t wait to come back! Thanks again Rufio!
RUFIO IS EXCELLENT!! We wanted a rough ride and he delivered!! Great experience, and couldn’t of asked for anyone better!! He even took extra time to look for my missing shoe that i lost! We are coming back again, and requesting RUFIO!!! Thank you soooo much!!!!
Ol Rufio! So my friends and I happen to go a day where the Olympic teams were training, so we could not go down the side with the bigger rapids. I was bummed, however Rufio made it the BEST experience we have ever had out there. Who would have thought the little "family side" would have been so hardcore. We seriously did 360′s down the entire thing and our entire crew was thrown out (But of course I was launched back in the raft by Jacob). AAaaaaamazing. Rufio not only has great personality that keeps you in stitches the whole time, he has to be the best guide out there. I will ask for him EVERY time we go
Thanks for a great time!