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. For more information, please see the Raft Guide School FAQ.

Course Information:

  • Duration:  5 days
  • Hours:  9:00am-6:00pm (Orientation hours are listed in conjunction with course dates)
  • Price:  $175

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 18 years of age or 17 and a graduating senior in high school
  • 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:

Guide School has a 1 to 6 instructor to student ratio, ensuring the quality of instruction needed to succeed as a professional raft guide. There are limited spaces available, so be sure to sign up early to secure a spot.

Please use the links below to register online or call Guest Services at 704.391.3900.

2018 Guide School:

FULL WEEK GUIDE SCHOOL

Orientations are scheduled on Sunday evenings prior to the beginning of each course from 6:00pm-8:00pm. The course will last one full week – Monday through Friday.

Guide School M –

Orientation Sunday 7/8; Course Monday 7/9 – Friday 7/13

Guide School N –

Orientation Sunday 7/15; Course Monday 7/16 – Friday 7/20

Guide School O –

Orientation Sunday 7/22; Course Monday 7/23 – Friday 7/27