Join us for an IRF workshop for river guides and trip leaders facilitated by IRF Instructor Bryant Baker along with IRF Instructor Trainer Mark Hirst of Lapin Koskikoulu. This course will allow for certifications up to Level 4 and is intended for experienced river guides and whitewater professionals looking to increase their education. IRF certifications can be used for guiding and trip leading whitewater around the world.

The first three days of the workshop assesses the fundamentals of commercial river guiding and/or safety boating. Assessments are completed on the level of whitewater corresponding to the level of the guide. While on the course, experienced river guides are assessed on a variety of tasks including:

• Personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Safety and paddle talk
• Whitewater boating skills and crew management
• Flip and throw-bag tests
• Whitewater swimming
• Building a 3:1 rope system with appropriate anchors

During the workshop you will need to pass a guide assessment which includes a written exam.

Prerequisites: Experience as a commercial guide, logbook, and first aid/CPR certifications. Required to receive an IRF Guide Certification. 

Rivers: New, Gauley, Meadow, Cherry

Dates: May 15, 2025 – May 17, 2025

Duration: 3 days

Meals: Lunch will be provided each day of instruction.

Cost: $450 – first three (3) days of raft guide/safety craft workshop

Add-Ons: $300 – A two (2) Day Trip Leader Workshop can be added 

Add-Ons: $300 – An additional two (2) Day Instructor Workshop can be added on (takes place after Trip Leader Workshop) 

Additional Cost: IRF Award Fees

Location: ACE Adventure Resort, WV, USA

Trip Leader Workshop Add-On

The fourth and fifth day are spent evaluating trip leader candidates with on-river scenarios. These scenarios are designed to test their decision-making, communication skills, delegation ability, and performance during a rescue. They are designed to be as realistic as possible, again corresponding to the level of the guide being assessed.

Upon successfully passing the qualification, the IRF issues an IRF Trip Leader Certification.

Dates: May 18-19, 2025

Cost: $300 

Prerequisites: Participation in three day Guide and Safety Craft Workshop