Earlier this week, a new crew of first-year guide trainees rolled into Buena Vista, Colorado, ready to kick off a summer of learning, teamwork, and outdoor adventure. They came from all across the country, some driving for days to get here, all to train as whitewater rafting and backpacking guides with Noah’s Ark Whitewater Rafting & Adventure Company.
The season began with an orientation day designed to give them a firsthand look at the kinds of Colorado adventure experiences they’ll soon be leading. In the morning, the group geared up for a half-day whitewater rafting trip through the iconic Browns Canyon National Monument. With the Arkansas River flowing and sunny skies overhead, the future guides got a feel for what it’s like to ride the waves from a guest’s perspective. Some had never been on a rafting trip before, but by the end, they were working together, laughing, and soaking up both the river and the moment.
After a break for lunch, the group headed up to the Browns Canyon Adventure Park, our high ropes challenge and aerial course that overlooks the Arkansas River valley. They clipped into harnesses and worked through a series of elevated elements. Everyone walked away a little more connected, a little more confident, and more excited than ever to begin the season.
Now, the training begins.
Over the next several weeks, these new team members will enter into an intensive, hands-on training process to prepare them for a summer of leading whitewater rafting trips and multi-day backpacking expeditions across Colorado’s backcountry. They’ll learn how to read rapids, paddle with control, and support guests of all skill levels on the river. On land, they’ll hit the trail, honing backcountry skills like navigation, group management, and wilderness safety. Additionally, half of the group will be trained as rock climbing guides, and the other half as Brown’s Canyon Adventure Park guides.
But at Noah’s Ark, training goes beyond technical skill. At the core of everything we do is a commitment to staff development, relationships, excellence, and extraordinary service. We believe great guides are not only capable in the outdoors, they are also compassionate, attentive, and servant-hearted leaders.
Our goal is to build a team that’s not just equipped to run trips, but equipped to care for people. Whether it’s creating a welcoming environment, sharing stories around a campfire, or helping a nervous guest take that first step into a raft or onto a ropes course, hospitality and heart are always at the center of the experience.
We believe that the most memorable adventures happen when people feel supported, and seen, and our guides are the ones who help make that possible. That’s why we invest so much in building community among staff, creating space for personal growth, and holding a high standard for both professionalism and kindness.
The training is challenging. The days are long. But the reward is clear: a summer spent in the Colorado wilderness, lifelong friendships, and the chance to lead others through experiences that inspire courage, connection, and joy.
There’s a lot ahead, but this group is already showing up with the right mindset. They’re ready to learn, work hard, and grow into their roles as outdoor professionals. Whether on the Arkansas River or in the beauty of the Rocky Mountains, they’re preparing to guide some of the most unforgettable outdoor experiences in Colorado.
We’re excited to walk alongside them in this process, and to bring them into the Noah’s Ark community. We can’t wait to see what this summer holds at Noah’s Ark!