Our RGC is based on the 10 day rock guide curriculum originally created for the AMGA. From experience we feel that more structured time on the rock with the instructor results in higher skill retention.
We feel our RGC is superior to the RIC because you have the freedom to create your own learning experience by scheduling the modules at your convenience. This course is identical in content to courses offered by the AMGA but our coverage of the techniques is in more depth.
Modules
The RGC is broken into modules. Each module covers specific skills and are designed to be taken in sequence and build on each other. Once you master a module then it’s time to move to the next. We feel that this model results in higher skill level.
We recommend you get significant practice with each one before taking the next in the series. It may be desirable to schedule additional structured practice days between modules to make sure you truly understand a skill set before moving on. It is possible to skip modules based on experience, but mastery of Modules 1 & 2 is highly recommended for everyone. Additional practice days can be scheduled any time you need more work with a specific skill set.
We'll be climbing routes 3 to 7 pitches in length, where you'll be expected to place your own protection and anchors. The routes may be crack, face, or slab up to 5.9 in difficulty. The approaches and descents will be straightforward.
Schedule & Tuition
This course can be scheduled at your convenience. The base tuition for the 10 day core curriculum for one student is $2500 and for two students it's $2300 each.
Day 1
• Knots for guiding
• Protection placement
• Guide belay anchors
• Belaying
• Guides rack
Day 2
• Rope & Stance Management with 1 client
Day 3
•Rope & stance management with 2 clients
Tuition: $750
Recommendation: 2 additional structured practice days on the cliff ($500)
Day 1
• Systems for lowering
• Systems for rappelling
• Understanding the rationale for each technique
Day 2
• Multi-pitch climb with a rappel descent
Tuition: $500
Recommendation: 1 additional structured practice day on the cliff ($250)
Day 1
• Introduction to Transitions (see def.)
• Up to down Transitions
• Cliff practice
Day 2
• Down to down Transitions
• Cliff practice
Tuition: $500
Recommendation: 1 additional structured practice day on the cliff ($250)
def. - A Transition is a change in rope technique or anchor based on a change in terrain; change in direction; or a change over at an anchor.
Day 1
• Shortening the rope
• Choosing the distance between you and your partner
• Moving thru exposed 4th class
• Increasing your security
• Quick belays
Tuition: $250
Recommendation: 1 additional structured practice day on the cliff ($250)
Day 1
• Belay escapes
• Improvised haul systems
• Cliff practice
Day 2
• Counter-balance rappels
• Knot passes
• Cliff practice
Tuition: $500
Recommendation: 1 additional structured practice day on the cliff ($250)