Private Boaters Guide School (ages 18+)
Monday, June 3rd - Friday, June 7th, 2024
$750 per person
This class is designed for aspiring private whitewater rafters. Do you have your own equipment and want to hone your skills? Are you thinking about buying a raft and taking friends and family whitewater rafting? We can help with that.
This five-day whitewater rafting guide school is an introduction to whitewater rafting. During the whitewater rafting course, you will be given the opportunity to learn the following skills:
Ability to paddle guide the South Fork of the American River
Basic Swiftwater rescue techniques
Basic concepts of hydrology
Basic knowledge of the river environment
How to adequately prepare equipment for a river rafting trip
How to manage the basic logistics of a river rafting trip
Basics of what it takes to be a private whitewater rafting guide
Students often excel in some areas and struggle in others but this should not discourage you. This workshop will be taught in an inclusive manner so all students will be encouraged to excel and challenge themselves no matter where they are in their learning process. Whitewater rafting is a challenging activity and requires consistent practice. This workshop is not the end of learning—it is just the beginning!
Read our Blog on 5 reasons to become a class III raft Guide
$750 includes
5 days of whitewater rafting instruction
Lunch every day (breakfast and dinner not included)
Instruction from experienced river guides
1 instructor to 4 students (this ensures each student gets as much guide time as possible)
Camping Sunday through Thursday nights
Equipment (life jacket, safety equipment, etc.)
Shuttles to and from the river
Tax and government fees
Frequently asked questions:
What is the class size?
The class is a minimum of 4 students and a maximum of 12 students
I am not 18 years old, can I do the class?
We have allowed people as young as sixteen to participate. It very much depends on the maturity and independence of the student. Please fill out the form if you are under 18 and we will take your application into consideration.
Will I get to guide the boat?
Yes. All students will have the opportunity to navigate the river
Will I learn to row?
Not necessarily. This class is primarily focused on paddle guiding an inflatable raft. If you are interested in learning to row please call us to discuss the possibility.
Does River Runners provide me with cold weather gear?
No. If you are worried about being cold and you own a wet suit, bring it along. If you don't own one we can arrange a rental for you.
Does River Runners provide me with equipment for rafting?
Yes. We will provide you with a life jacket (PFD) and other necessary equipment.
Does River Runners provide me with a tent, pad and sleeping bag for camping?
No. You should bring these things with you.
Does River Runners provide breakfast and dinner during the course?
No. You will be camped in a site with running water and picnic tables where you will be able to prepare your own meals. Also, there are a number of restaurants just a few minutes away.
Sample of Daily Schedule
8:30 am Class starts
1:00 pm Lunch
5:30 pm Debrief
6:00 pm Class finishes
Sound right for you? Please fill out this application and we will get back to you soon. Places are limited to a maximum of 12 students per class.