Trip Photos 505-983-7756
Banner Image

Between Two Chollas- Interview with Jake Walker, River Guide

JM: Today I have the pleasure of interviewing Mr. Jake Walker, NMRA’s head boatman and SUP Extaordinaire. Jake, what was it that brought you into rafting?

JW: Well, I guess it was always just meant to be… I’ve always been on the water. I took two weeks, and went up to Arizona with a buddy. We stayed at a rafting company out there, and all of a sudden, I was getting paychecks! It started as a visit, and turned into a job. I didn’t want to make rafting a job, or make anything on the river a job, because I didn’t want to take the fun out of it. But, it’s still fun, 25 years later.

                      

JM: That was my next question. Is that how long you’ve been guiding? 25 years?

JW: Yeah… since ’92, however long it’s been since then!

JM: Tell me, what’s the best part about being a guide?

JW: The best part about being a guide is the freedom. To pull up [stakes], and go to the next place, no questions asked- without it being weird like it would be for other people. Also, the interaction with the people, with the guests.

           

JM: So then, what’s the hardest part about being a guide?

JW: The hardest part is probably relationships. What it has done to relationships; it makes [relationships] a little tougher when you’re not present.

JM: Personal relationships?

JW: ROMANTIC relationships! I think it’s really good for personal relationships, tenfold. But as far as romantic interests are concerned, it (guiding) seems to have always taken a toll on them.

    

JM: What is a trip or river that’s on your “bucket list”?

JW: Well, of course I want to paddleboard the Grand Canyon, and the Selway River. Definitely on my list.

JM: What’s your favorite kind of boat or vessel, and why?

JW: Of course, a paddleboard! Just because of the freedom, and the ability to push the limits with a very low threshold of fear.

        

JM: OK! Last but not least, what’s your favorite band?

JW: My favorite band -this week- is…. oh man, I don’t ever have a favorite band, I love them all! But I’m gonna throw Shiny Roots out there this week, because they cancelled their show in Santa Fe, and they didn’t get support there.

Rio Grande Racecourse Half Day

River
Rio Grande
Duration
Half Day
Price
$70 Adult
$60 Child
Age
5

Learn More

Rio Grande Gorge Rafting Full Day

River
Rio Grande
Duration
Full Day
Price
$110 Adult
$95 Child
Age
5

Learn More

Rio Chama River Rafting 3 Day

River
Rio Chama
Duration
Multi Day
Price
$545 Adult
$450 Child
Age
6

Learn More