Widgawa Lodge – Killarney Provincial Park – West Gateway Whitefish Falls, Ontario 2026 Seasonal Position: Widgawa Lodge & Outfitter Onsite Wilderness Guide & Team Member
Season: Early/Mid/Late May through Late Mid/Late September (approximately 4–4.5 months) with exceptions for educators or post-secondary students.
Imagine working in one of the most beautiful places in Ontario. Spend time in the historical lands of the Group of Seven, Anishinaabe People and Gold Miners. Paddle, hike and tour on your days off to soak in the beautiful surroundings.
Widgawa Lodge is seeking dedicated, experienced professionals — preferably a couple or two individuals with complementary skills — to operate Widgawa Lodge. We are committed to delivering an exceptional guest experience in the stunning wilderness gateway to Killarney Provincial Park and the La Cloche Mountains. Our focus is on outstanding customer service, operational excellence, and creating memorable adventures for every visitor. This is a rewarding seasonal role for those who thrive in a dynamic outdoor environment, possess strong administrative abilities, and maintain composure under pressure. We prioritize reliability, professionalism, and a genuine passion for hospitality in a remote setting. You will meet incredible outdoor-loving visitors and build wonderful connections with returning Widgawa guests.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Provide warm, professional welcomes and deliver exceptional, attentive customer service throughout the guest journey
- Manage reservations, process digital and cash payments accurately, and handle administrative tasks efficiently
- Offer helpful recommendations on equipment, routes, and safety protocols
- Demonstrate proper use of rental equipment (including canoes) and conduct thorough inspections for safety and quality
- Assist with guest shuttles by boat or vehicle, logistical support, and on-site guidance
- Perform daily facility maintenance (equipment repair, upkeep), cabin cleaning (including linens, bathrooms, and surfaces), laundry, grounds care, and minor repairs
- Respond promptly and calmly to guest inquiries, concerns, or changes in plans, always with a positive and solution-oriented approach
- Physically able to hike, portage canoes, split firewood, clean cabins and more
What We Are Looking For:
- Proven experience in outdoor recreation, guiding, hospitality, or customer-facing roles (1+ year preferred)
- Exceptional customer service skills with a calm, professional demeanor, especially under pressure or during busy periods
- Strong administrative and organizational abilities, including comfort with digital payment systems, record-keeping, and multitasking
- Comfortable with equipment maintenance (gas, oil) and basic troubleshooting with boats, lawn mowers, grass trimming etc.
- Valid boating licence and clean driver’s licence (mandatory)
- Physically capable to perform hands-on work in varying weather conditions
- Reliability, integrity, and a team-oriented mindset
- Must live on-site for full immersion and availability (housing is included, you provide your own food)
- Proven ability to work autonomously and independently
- Demonstrate ownership and resourcefulness by maintaining a keen eye for detail, proactively caring for facilities and equipment, and confidently developing and executing solutions whenever challenges arise
- Preference for educators (teachers/professors) or others with summer flexibility who are interested in returning for multiple seasons
Compensation & Benefits:
- Competitive monthly salary (paid bi-weekly) determined based on experience
- On-site staff accommodations provided, $250/month housing allowance
- Generous end-of-season performance bonus (tied to lodge revenue goals and individual contributions to guest satisfaction and sales)
- $1,000 loyalty bonus for early commitment to return the following season
- Opportunity for pre-season paid work (April/May)
- Annual pay increases for returning staff
Work Environment
Hours and schedules are variable, reflecting the seasonal nature of outdoor recreation, guest arrivals, weather patterns, and logistical needs while having a focus on delivering consistent excellence throughout the day. We value work-life balance where possible and encourage a supportive team environment that fosters personal growth and long-term commitment. Team members may work extended days (including up to 12 hours) and up to 6 days per week during busy periods to deliver outstanding service and safety guidance. As this position involves guiding, teaching, and assisting guests engaged in wilderness activities (such as canoeing, route planning, and safety instruction in remote settings), it is classified under the wilderness guide provisions of Ontario’s Employment Standards Act.
To Apply: Please email dh[at]widgawalodge[dot]ca with:
1. A brief introduction (including why you are interested in working at Widgawa Lodge and if you would be open to returning seasonally)
2. Your resume(s) highlighting relevant outdoor, hospitality, and administrative experience
We are committed to building a professional, reliable team that elevates the Widgawa guest experience year after year. If you are passionate about the outdoors, excel in customer service, and seek a meaningful seasonal role with growth potential, we would welcome your application.
Job Type: Seasonal
Pay: $3,500.00-$4,250.00 per month
Work Location: In person
