The standard for raft guides.

From novice river runners to professional guides, this workshop is open to all.

Course Length:  3 - 5 days

Upcoming dates: 

2025: Sept 8, 9, 10 (Add-on 11, 12)

Price:   

Guide Certification

1 student $385

2 students $350

3 students $325

4 students $300

*All IRF awards are valid for 3 years when supported with a valid first aid certificate.

Learn & Practice:

• Pre-departure trip talk
• Raft guiding skills & crew management
• Flip procedures & flip drills
• Personal whitewater swimming skills
• Throwbag and ropework skills

Guide assessment levels: 

Days 1, 2 & 3

• Levels 2, 3 and 4

IRF Trip Leader Assessment:

Days 4 & 5

Trip Leaders must demonstrate competence in the following areas during the workshop:

• Management of a commercial mock emergency scenario

IRF Safety Kayak Assessment:

Days 4 & 5

Safety boaters must demonstrate competence in the following areas during the workshop:

• Pre-departure safety kayak talk
• Swimmer rescue
• Strong boater abilities

No pre-requisites to take the class, however, to earn a rating you must meet the following:

• Minimum of 18 years of age
• The ability to swim 165 feet
• Valid first aid / CPR certificate
• Red Cross First Aid / CPR Class
• An up-to-date river logbook or signed letter from an employer.
• Level 2 (10 runs or 20 hours of logged river time experience on class 2 water)
• Level 3 (30 runs or 60 hours of logged river time experience on class 3 water)
• Level 4 (50 runs or 100 hours of logged river time experience on class 4 water)
  

Courses will be based in White Salmon Washington.

Water level dependent, training will be held on the following rivers:

• Hood River
• Klickitat River
• White Salmon River
• Wind River

Even if you're not interested in earning the IRF certification, the class is still an outstanding river running experience. You'll gain valuable skills and insights by training alongside professional guides, making it a unique and enriching way to grow your confidence and ability on the water.

~Pura Vida