To work as a recreation guide, you must:

have a high school diploma or GED;

complete on-the-job training; and

have good interpersonal skills.

May work 12- to 14-hour days when guiding wilderness activities. Trips may last from a few hours to several weeks. During trips guides usually work seven days a week.

May work only seasonally or irregularly. The busiest months are May through October. Many guides work only during the busiest months.

Often must travel to different areas in order to work year round. They may travel to other states or countries.

RECREATION AND TRAVEL GUIDES will:

Lead outdoor trips, such as camping, biking, fishing, hunting, and rafting.

Teach clients how to use special equipment.

Are physically active on the job.

Are responsible for clients' health and safety.

May work only from May to October.

Most learn their skills through personal hobbies and on the job.

RECREATION AND TRAVEL GUIDES frequently:

Sit for long periods, such as when driving guests to recreation sites.

Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.

It is important that RECREATION AND TRAVEL GUIDES be able to:

Speak clearly so listeners can understand.

Understand the speech of another person.

See details of objects whether they are nearby or far away.