Here at ZTS, we believe that being connected to a place adds richness to the experience. We love spending time on the river. It's no secret and we want to share this connection and passion with future guides and river advocates.

Who is this course for?
This course is for folks who are interested in working on the river and for folks who want to learn the skills needed to guide their own raft.

Course Objectives:
-To gain an introduction to raft guiding on Class II-IV whitewater, with a focus on stern mount guiding, paddle raft guiding, rigging, and logistics.
-To begin developing good river awareness and ability to look at the "big picture".
-To help you gain a greater appreciation and respect for the river.

Course Curriculum:
-Fundamentals of river hydrology, river terminology, and reading water.
-Technical skills needed to guide/maneuver rafts on a river
-Equipment and Rigging
-River safety and communication
-Swiftwater Rescue Technician Certification (optional)
-Guest services
-Logistics
-Risk management

Cost:
This class is divided into 2 parts: Guide School and a 2.5 day Swiftwater Rescue Class. If you choose to do all 5 days, the cost is $500. If you choose to only do the 3 days of guide training, the cost is $200.

Location:
This class meets at the ZTS headquarters, Crystal Springs. Participants can camp for free and use Crystal Springs facilities.

ZTS provides:
-Rafts
-Paddles
-Helmet
-Safety Equipment
-PFD (personal floatation device)
-Wetsuit, neoprene coat, fleece, booties, splash jacket

What you bring:
-Synthetic/capilene, wool/polypro long underwear (i.e., anything that is not bulky)
-Water shoes or old sneakers
-Sunscreen
-Towel
-Reusable water bottle
-Clothing/personal items
-Headlamp
-Camping gear (if you decide to camp)
-Personal food
-Sunglasses
-Hat