Zion National Park: Life as a Guide at Zion Guide Hub
Proof that teamwork makes the screams work. The Zion Guide Hub team out on our Annual Halloween Costume Ride.
Zion National Park is a bucket-list destination for adventure seekers, and for the guides who get to work here, it’s a lifestyle unlike any other. At Zion Guide Hub (ZGH), guiding isn’t just about taking guests on epic adventures—it’s about creating unforgettable experiences and building a deep connection to the incredible landscapes we call home.
But what’s it really like to work as a guide at Zion Guide Hub? To get an insider's perspective, I sat down with one of our outstanding guides, Jacob, who’s heading into his second season with us.
Q&A with Jacob, Guide at Zion Guide Hub
Where is your hometown?
I’m originally from Greenville, Mississippi.
What inspired you to become a guide, and what is your guiding background?
I was inspired to become a guide by a close family friend named Mike T. Mike is a veteran guide on the Ocoee River in southeastern Tennessee and an influential role model in my life. My grandmother, or 'Meme' as we grandkids called her, took my cousins and me to the Ocoee River every summer growing up. I was 11 years old when I took my first trip down the Ocoee—a little earlier than the required age. 'He’ll be fine,' said Mikey, 'just ride in the bottom of the boat.' From that point on, I was hooked on the thrill of whitewater. Fourteen years later, on that same river, I got my start in the industry.
I’ve always been passionate about the outdoors, but sharing that passion with new friends from all over the world and enhancing their experiences through my skills and knowledge has been the most fulfilling thing I’ve ever done.
Jacob's first experience in the world of outdoor tourism
What was it like transitioning from the Southeast to the West? Were there any surprises or adjustments?
Moving over 2,000 miles to southern Utah was the biggest leap of faith I’ve ever taken. I left home in a 1989 van with $500 and a dream, never having been west of Arkansas before.
One thing that surprised me was just how much public land exists in the western U.S.—75% of it! The space, freedom, and effort put into preserving these lands are truly remarkable.
The transition wasn’t without its challenges. My friend Austin and I arrived with minimal gear and even fewer resources, but the Zion Guide Hub team welcomed us with open arms and gave us everything we needed to succeed. That generosity meant the world to us.
What’s been your favorite moment guiding a tour so far?
My favorite moment on a guided tour so far was meeting Laura and Layne from Dallas, TX. We did a scenic biking trip in Zion Canyon together. During our conversations, they shared that they had recently purchased bicycles and were training for RAGBRAI, a seven-day cycling tour across Iowa. I got the sense that they were a bit skeptical about what they had signed up for and unsure about their physical capabilities.
The next day, they had a hiking tour scheduled with our owner Scott as their guide. After our initial trip ended, I chatted with Scott, and he planned a day of gravel riding for the couple—and he absolutely knocked it out of the park. Laura and Layne had many compliments about their time with us, and I felt they left with an unshakable determination to complete RAGBRAI no matter what.
A few months later, they reached out to Scott and me on the final day of their ride, letting us know they had reached the mighty Mississippi River and dipped their bike wheels in the water. It was truly amazing.
Jacob, Laura, and Layne out-front of Zion Cycles.
How would you describe the vibe and culture at Zion Guide Hub?
The vibe at Zion Guide Hub is one of professionalism, efficiency, open communication, and teamwork. Management works tirelessly to ensure that guides are well taken care of, and that the systems and processes we follow are streamlined and stress-free. When the work gets tough, we are always reminded that we don’t have to carry our burdens alone. We are encouraged to reach out and communicate with someone because we all have each other’s backs, no matter what the increasingly long season throws at us.
The culture at Zion Guide Hub is what I would call partnership. We work together to be strong partners with the park service and preserve our public resources for the enjoyment of future generations. Scott and Heidi do an outstanding job of being partners in our community, whether it’s building new trails, attending public events, or being present at all team meetings to provide support (and pizza). A good partner shares in responsibilities, triumphs, defeats, and failures. From the moment I arrived at Zion Guide Hub, I was asked about my goals, given every resource I needed to achieve them, and held accountable throughout the season in pursuit of those goals. I do my best to thank the individuals who made that possible, but it was truly a team effort, so thank you to each and every one of you.
What’s the most interesting thing you’ve learned about Zion or the surrounding area?
The region is part of the Escalante Grand Staircase National Monument, which spans 1.8 million acres and tells the story of 1.8 billion years of Earth’s history. It’s mind-blowing to guide guests through an area with such immense geological significance.
What’s one thing people misunderstand about being a guide?
Some people think it’s all fun and games, but guiding is a serious profession. We’re extensively trained to handle emergencies and have deep respect for the land we work on. It’s a role we take immense pride in.
A day in paradise... oops, I mean The Narrows!
Do you have a favorite trail or spot to take guests?
I love taking guests to Water Canyon. It’s a steep, shaded climb that surprises guests with its “punchiness” but rewards them with the stunning Icebox area. The cool water and shade make it perfect for hot summer days.
How do the landscapes and experiences in Zion compare to those in the Southeast?
The sheer scale of the landscape here is unmatched. In the Southeast, you’re often surrounded by lush greenery, but in Zion National Park, the red rock cliffs, vast skies, and dynamic terrain feel like another planet.
What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a guide at Zion Guide Hub?
If someone were looking at an employment opportunity at ZGH, I would offer this advice: there is no replacement for a strong work ethic and reliability. If you have these traits, you will not find a group of people more motivated to help you succeed in your goals within the outdoor industry. Be optimistic, maintain a good attitude, and come have some fun with us in the United States' greatest playground!
Did you know we guide in Bryce Canyon too! Jacob, Grant, and Emily looking sharp in matching shirts from our sister store, Zion Cycles!
Final Thoughts
Jacob’s journey from Mississippi to southern Utah is an inspiring reminder of what makes guiding at Zion Guide Hub so special. It’s not just about exploring incredible landscapes or sharing adventures with guests—it’s about joining a community of passionate, driven individuals who lift each other up and share a commitment to preserving the beauty of Zion National Park for generations to come.
Are you ready to join the team and see what it’s like to guide in one of the most breathtaking places on Earth? Reach out to us today to learn more about opportunities at Zion Guide Hub!
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https://www.zionguidehub.com/careers
