So, you want to be a river guide? HVA Guide School Is For You!

HVA Guide School Dates: May 19 – 25, 2025

Course Overview: This course will teach participants how to guide commercial rafting trips on class 1-3 whitewater, focusing on river navigation, rescue techniques, and safety measures. It combines hands-on experience with theoretical learning, ensuring participants are well-prepared to guide rafting trips professionally. Instructors Kelly Beaton, Jon Kopil, and Rob Engen will lead you through essential guiding skills and rescue operations, building both technical expertise and confidence on the river.

Certification and Outcomes: Upon successful completion, participants are eligible to receive a PROAOA raft guide certification and a river trip logbook. Depending on demonstrated skill level, you will receive either a Class 1, 2 or 3 Certification. You must also possess a valid First Aid Certificate and a Swift Water Rescue Certification. This course will equip you with the skills to handle whitewater challenges, negotiate rafts down rivers, and execute rescue techniques. While it provides solid training on the Upper Red Deer Rivers, further familiarization with specific rivers may be required for employment purposes.

Course Structure: The course runs from 8 AM to 5 PM daily, with hands-on training on the Upper Red Deer River. Evening sessions are a possibility. Accommodations are available at the HVA Camp. Expect long, physically demanding days and be prepared for immersion in both water and land-based exercises.

Assessment and Expectations: Participants will be assessed on guiding, rescue, and river knowledge through practical drills and written tests. The course is designed to challenge you physically and mentally, simulating the fatigue experienced in real guiding scenarios, therefore it’s crucial to bring ample food, water, and a positive team-oriented attitude.

Who is This Course For: While the course is designed for industry level training, we have had past participants who registered to increase their own skill level and confidence for guiding friends and family down rivers. We are open to all participants and will adjust your specific role and requirements as needed.