Cuts in government spending may limit opportunities in city and county recreation programs. The emphasis on guide work is shifting. People are going on fewer hunting trips and more wilderness trips for travel, pleasure, and sight-seeing. Guides may find opportunities conducting groups on canoeing, rafting, rock climbing, or photography trips. Preparation Many guides learn their skills from other guides while on the job.
Formal training is available from guide and outfitting schools.
Recreation guides need knowledge of the area where they will be leading their trips. In addition, they must be very knowledgeable and skilled at rafting, hunting, or whatever type of trip they lead. Guides must have a good knowledge of first aid and be in excellent physical condition. Many guides take college courses in leisure studies or physical education. About 340 colleges and universities in the United States offer degrees in parks and recreation, leisure studies, or related fields.