Yellowstone Lake Kayak Guide

Join the Shurr Adventures Team – Experienced Kayaking Guides Wanted for Yellowstone National Park

Thank you for considering Shurr Adventures, a family-owned kayaking company with 20 years of experience! We are seeking experienced kayaking guides to lead tours on Yellowstone Lake from June 1 to September 10, 2025.

This is not an entry-level position. Yellowstone Lake’s conditions can be unpredictable and challenging, so we’re looking for guides with prior sea kayaking or commercial outdoor guiding experience. If you’ve been a whitewater raft guide, have extensive commercial hiking experience, or are a skilled naturalist, we’re happy to consider your background as well.

About Us

Shurr Adventures has been family-owned and operated for 20 years. We’ve grown into one of Yellowstone’s most respected companies by focusing on:

• Small group sizes, which means safer, more personal tours and great tips for guides.

• A team-focused, professional, drama-free environment.

• Top-notch kayaking equipment and memorable guest experiences.

• Respect for our guides, with a healthy work-life balance and scheduled days off.

You’ll guide small groups on Yellowstone Lake, where you’ll share your knowledge of the ecosystem, spot wildlife, and ensure fun, safe tours. This is an incredible opportunity to work in a stunning location while doing what you love.

Qualifications

We’re looking for confident, independent guides with the skills and experience to handle the challenges of this job.

Must-Haves:

• Sea kayaking or commercial outdoor guiding experience (this position is not for first-time guides).

• Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification.

• Ability to kayak 6–12 miles daily, sometimes in windy or choppy conditions.

• Physical fitness: Able to lift 60–80 lbs frequently.

• Strong customer service skills: friendly, patient, and safety-focused.

• A reliable vehicle for camping and commuting.

• Ability to work in variable weather conditions, from dry heat to cold mornings, and handle the challenges of wildlife, insects, and other elements.

Preferred:

• College degree in biology, ecology, geography, outdoor education, or a related field.

• Birding knowledge or willingness to learn (Yellowstone has incredible birdlife!).

• Previous experience as a naturalist, raft guide, or hiking guide.

What to Expect

• Training: If you need additional rescue training, we offer a 4-day, $1,000 ACA Level 3 Kayak Trip Leader course in early June—fully paid by Shurr Adventures.

• Pay:

• $150per half-day tour (3–hour water time).

• $170–$200 per full-day tour (5 hours).

• Tips: With our small groups and high service standards, guides consistently earn great tips.

• Many days include 2 half-day tours or a full day plus a sunset tour, earning $$300 per day before tips.

• Housing: All guides car camp in or near Yellowstone during the summer, with campsites located 35–45 minutes from the kayak launch. A gas stipend is provided.

• Support: Once trained, you’ll lead most tours independently without micromanagement.

Why Work With Us?

• Experienced Team: We’re looking for seasoned guides who thrive in a professional, team-focused setting.

• Independence: After training, most tours will be just you and your guests.

• Small Groups: Safer, more personal experiences for guests and better tips for guides.

• Work-Life Balance: Scheduled days off to recharge and explore the park.

• Incredible Location: Yellowstone Lake’s beauty and wildlife make every day unforgettable.

Other Details

• Couples or friends with prior guiding experience together are encouraged to apply.

• The park has nearby amenities: restaurants, showers, a gas station, a small store, and an ice cream shop—just a mile from the kayak launch

How to Apply:

Please email your resume to apply. Due to our busy Everglades tour schedule in the winter, we are unable to respond to texts or calls.

Thank you for considering Shurr Adventures—we look forward to hearing from you!

Alli and Justin Shurr

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $300.00 - $320.00 per day

Schedule:

• Holidays
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Supplemental Pay:

• Bonus opportunities
• Tips

Application Question(s):

• There is no Lodging are you willing to car camp 35 to 45 minutes drive from the put in (grant village) for the whole season. we offer a gas stipend
• Guides must have reliable transportation and have knowledge of car camping as there is no housing and all the cities are far away. It’s a very beautiful place to camp and a wonderful drive in through Yellowstone and the Tetons in the mornin. The drive is 35 to 45 minutes. We do give a gas stipend. Are you willing to do this and have you camped for long periods of time.

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

• outdoor guiding commercially: 2 years (Required)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $150