Great Smoky Mountain Backpacking Guide

Are you an avid outdoors person? Are you looking to turn that passion for the outdoors into a career? Working as a Backpacking Guide is a rewarding position for those committed to offering the best in customer service. With a Walk in the Woods, we teach a multitude of skills, such as hiking, backpacking, survival skills and Leave No Trace Ethics. While offering interpretation on plants, animals, and history of The Great Smoky Mountains NP. 

Job Overview

A Walk in the Woods Guide Service has been sharing our mission of providing direct, positive experiences in nature and promoting environmental awareness for 24 years! Currently we are looking to hire enthusiastic guides to run backpacking trips, eco glamping trips and day hikes for the 2022 season. Preferred candidates will love to hike, backpack and camp, rain or shine, and don´t mind getting their hands dirty. We are looking for team players who are eager to share their love of nature and history to people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. Ideal candidates understand the behind the scenes nature of the tourism industry and are eager to jump in where ever needed.

This is a full-time seasonal position running from March through early November, we offer competitive pay and this is a tipped position. Some housing options are available, and we are willing to help you acquire housing off site. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Leading nature programs, educational walks and hikes
• Co-leading Leading Backpacking trips
• Set up and break down for Eco Camp
• Teaching group about nature and cultural history
• Teaching Leave No Trace Ethics
• Maintaining and cleaning camping gear
• Cleaning and inventory duties as assigned

COVID-19 considerations:

All employees are required to complete a health screening questionnaire & temperature

check before programming and to wear masks when in vehicles and anytime indoors or

within 6 ft. of another outdoors. Special gear cleaning measures in effect. Covid protocols change in accordance with CDC guidelines. 

Minimum Requirements

Preferred Requirements: 

• Wilderness First Responders certified
• Hiking and Backpacking experience
• Customer service experience 
• Basic knowledge of the natural and cultural history 
• Teaching group about natural and cultural history 
• Positive attitude and ability to follow current A Walk in the Woods protocols 
• Experience in Leave No Trace Ethics 
• COVID-19 Vaccination is a must