Horseback Riding Guide

Home to 200,000 acres of forested peaks, cascading waterfalls, and the iconic Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park is more than a place to work — it’s a place to belong. As ExplorUS takes the helm of park operations, we’re building a team of passionate people who want to share the beauty of this park with millions of visitors each year. Whether you’re guiding guests through mountain lodges, serving up hospitality in our restaurants, or keeping the wonder of Shenandoah running behind the scenes, you’ll be part of a team dedicated to protecting and celebrating one of America’s most treasured landscapes.

Explore our open positions and start your journey with us.

Position: Horseback Riding Guide

Location: Stanley, VA

Job : 209

# of Openings: 1

Imagine spending your workday surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, cascading waterfalls, and over 500 miles of scenic trails. A career at Shenandoah Hospitality offers more than just a job—it provides the opportunity to be part of a team dedicated to preserving one of America's most beautiful national treasures while creating unforgettable experiences for millions of visitors each year. Whether you're interested in hospitality, food service, retail, maintenance, or guest services, you'll gain valuable skills, build lifelong friendships, and enjoy the unique experience of living and working in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

If you're looking for meaningful work, adventure, and memories that will last a lifetime, Shenandoah National Park is the perfect place to begin your next journey.

This is a seasonal position with an estimated start date of 5/1/2027, and an anticipated end date of 11/1/2027 and is located at the Skyland Resort.

Hourly rate of pay: $16.00

Job Title:
Horseback Riding Guide

Reports To:

Guest Services Manager / Location Manager
Department:
Recreation / Guest Services

Summary of Position: The Horseback Riding Guide is responsible for leading and supervising guided horseback riding activities while ensuring the safety, comfort, and enjoyment of guests. This position provides instruction on proper riding techniques, monitors horse and rider behavior, and ensures horses are handled and cared for appropriately throughout each activity.

• Lead guided horseback riding tours and activities in accordance with established safety procedures.
• Provide guests with instructions on horse handling, mounting, dismounting, riding techniques, and trail etiquette.
• Assess guests’ riding abilities and help match riders with appropriate horses when authorized.
• Monitor guests, horses, and trail conditions throughout each ride.
• Ensure guests wear appropriate safety equipment, including properly fitted riding helmets.
• Inspect horses, saddles, bridles, and other riding equipment before and after each ride.
• Assist with grooming, saddling, bridling, feeding, watering, and general horse care as assigned.
• Recognize signs of horse distress, injury, or unusual behavior and promptly report concerns to management.
• Maintain control of the group and respond appropriately to emergencies, injuries, and unexpected trail conditions.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with guests, coworkers, and management.
• Ensure riding areas, trails, and equipment are maintained in a clean and safe condition.
• Follow established animal welfare standards, operating procedures, and applicable safety requirements.
• Complete required activity logs, equipment inspections, incident reports, and other documentation.
• Other duties as requested.

• Previous horseback riding experience and knowledge of horse behavior and care required.
• Experience leading trail rides or guiding horseback riding activities preferred.
• Strong…