Rio Hibarger

About me

I love dogs and horses, but when dining, I prefer goat meat. I am an expedition kayaker. I don't get to ski enough these days because of work, and during most of my spare time lately, I spend everything I should've saved paragliding and kite surfing. I'm good at cement work and masonry, but I prefer working on trucks and machinery, or working with chainsaws. There is a gal out there for me, but she's mad, cause I fed her a squirrel my dog caught in a sandwich and told her it was lamb.

The Best Part of My Job

Rowing and living on the dories, and kayaking big water around the world.

How I found OARS

I decided to be a river guide at age 13. After working for a number of river companies around the world for 11 years, when I asked, OARS offered me my first Grand Canyon trip as a baggage boatman in 2006. Since then, it has been real tough to encounter a better gig.

My Favorite Spot on the River/Outdoors

Any camp will do. I don't love hiking unless I'm hunting, looking for livestock, or climbing a hill to ski or fly down. My favorite rapid in Grand Canyon is Granite Falls or maybe Horn creek. Actually, Hermit with sediment at about 21,000 is probably it. My favorite camps in North America are on the Green River in Desolation Canyon at medium to low flows.

My Lucky Charm

I scout some rapids. It contributes to my luck.

I Can’t Live Without

My hands, feet, and Gerber multi-tool.