Guide-in Training, entry-level, age 16+
Guide Intern, advanced, age 18+
Position descriptions, expectations, and application instructions can be found below.
Guide-in-training
The Guide-in-Training mentorship offers aspiring wilderness leaders a 1-2 week experience with the LEAP guide team. It’s an opportunity to explore a potential career, gain valuable skills, and spend more time on the river. Prior participation in a LEAP program is recommended but not required.
Join the guide team to develop leadership, whitewater, and base camp skills, with a focus on your interests. LEAP covers all transportation, food, gear, and lodging. Must be at least 16 years old by the start of the mentorship.
Expectations:
Commit to at least one program
Contribute off the river
Show a strong desire to learn and grow
Maintain a positive, engaged attitude
Pathway to Guide Intern:
Exhibit excellent expeditionary behavior
Show strong work ethic and initiative
Demonstrate self-care and responsibility for others
Guide Intern
Supported by the Cameron Sauvain Scholarship Fund
The Guide Internship is the next step after a Guide-in-Training experience or a stand-alone role for those committed to outdoor leadership. Interns gain hands-on experience, building skills for a career in the outdoor industry while working in a team environment.
Details:
Join the guide team for ~3 weeks
Receive thorough training and hands-on experience
Assist with guiding and logistics between programs
LEAP covers transportation, food, gear, and lodging
Interns are paid per trip and training period
Competitive, limited positions available
Must be 18+ to apply
Expectations:
Commit to at least 2-3 programs + training
Contribute on and off the river
Learn and understand professional guide responsibilities
Maintain a learning mindset
Pathway to a Guide Position:
Exhibit professionalism
Demonstrate competence in guide responsibilities
Build strong rapport with the guide team
2025 Applications Due March 31
Applications and interviews begin April 1st, with final decisions made within the week.
Training begins in May. The season runs from June through September.
The Cameron Sauvain Scholarship Fund
Honoring the memory of Cameron Sauvain, a young man from Portland who cherished camaraderie, the outdoors, and creative expression. An avid camper, snowboarder, and fisherman, he found inspiration in nature for his glass artistry and oil painting. In his honor, the fund supports future leaders interested in career pathways in the outdoors by providing meaningful opportunities for growth and development.
Partial program funding generously provided by the Oregon State Marine Board and Waterway Access Grant Program.