Classes and Training

Guide School

Canyon Rio offers one of the most recognized and respected guide schools in the industry. A river training course such as this one is required for anyone wanting to work in the rafting industry, and is also a great experience for beginners and private boaters who want to learn how to be safe and run a quality trip on the water. This six day course offers a hands on, introductory and intermediate education on:

• Paddle Boat Operation
• Oar Raft Operation
• River Safety and Rescue Techniques
• Trip Operations
• Camp Operations
• Ecological Responsibility

This year, participants head to Pagosa Spring, Colorado for three days of paddle boat and river rescue training before moving to the Rio Chama for the three day oar raft and wilderness camping portion of the course. Prepare for early mornings, long days, and intense physical activity. Limited employment opportunities are available upon completion of the course for participants who show the proper aptitude and disposition.

To instruct the course, Canyon Rio is bringing in Earl and Glenna Alderson, two rafting rock stars from Northampton, Massachusetts. Earl and Glenna have decades of rafting and education experience. They have worked extensively on rivers such as the Kern and the Chattooga, and have led many expeditions on wilderness rivers in the US and abroad. Currently, Earl and Glenna live in Massachusetts where they lead trips and teach classes in outdoor education, kayaking, and rock climbing for Hampshire College and the Five College Area.

Call for more information and to register!