-1.avif)
Alpine Skills Course
About
The Alpine Skills Course is a common starting point for those who are interested in pursuing a career in guiding and learning basic guiding techniques.
The Alpine Skills Course (ASC) introduces guiding techniques commonly used on simple mountain routes that may include: 4th or low 5th class rock, glacier travel and/or moderate snow climbing. Techniques covered include management and movement of multiple clients, technical descents, small team rescue, and other related skills and knowledge.
There will be considerable structured practice in the ASC. Techniques will be presented and/or demonstrated, you will practice on the ground, and then practice in venues that are representative of the terrain. Because of the short nature of the course it may not be possible to access all forms of alpine terrain.
Program Overview
Program Details
The Alpine Skills Course (ASC) introduces guiding techniques commonly used on simple glacier routes that may include rock scrambles up to Class 4 with short steps of easy 5th class. Techniques covered include management and movement of multiple clients, technical descents, small team rescue, and other related skills and knowledge.
There will be considerable structured practice in the ASC. Techniques will be presented and/or demonstrated, you will practice on the ground, and then practice in venues that are representative of the terrain. Because of the short nature of the course it may not be possible to access all forms of alpine terrain.
The Alpine Skills Course is a common starting point for those who are interested in learning basic guiding techniques. Starting 2027, the Alpine Skills Course does not count as a prerequisite to the Advanced Ski Guides Course.
- Current AMGA member
- Current CPR Certification
- Current approved Wilderness First Responder Certification (WFR)
- Completion of Recreation Level 1 Avalanche Training & Avalanche Rescue Course (AAI, AIARE, SAS, or AAA)
- Completion of the below route requirements, submitted via resume with application:
- A. Rock Climbs:
- 5 rock climbs rated 5.6 or harder, lead or shared lead (if shared lead, must have led 50% or more of route). A single route may only be listed once in section A.
- B. Snow Climbs:
- 5 ascents that include snow climbing, lead or shared lead (if shared lead, must have led 50% or more of route)
- C. Overnight Trips:
- 3 overnight backcountry trips
- A. Rock Climbs:
All students on Mountain Guide Programs must meet AMGA Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Additional Experience and Movement Criteria for ASC
- Two Years personal climbing experience on a variety of terrain that includes snow, rock, and alpine
- Confidence leading 5.6 in rock shoes at the time of the course
- Confidence on 3rd and 4th class terrain in mountain boots at the time of the course
- Competence in overnight backcountry camping
- Experience up to 10,000' in elevation
- Familiar with basic knots, including: figure 8, bowline, clove hitch, munter hitch, mule hitch, prusik, flat overhand, double fisherman's and klemheist
- Confidence placing traditional rock protection
- Familiar with multiple types of belaying techniques, including plates and assisted braking devices
- Familiar with ascending methods
- Familiar with mechanical advantage systems
- Familiar with LNT practices
Program Schedule
Application Process
Rock Programs
(Dec. 1, 2026 - May 1, 2027)
Rock Programs
(May 1, 2027 - Aug. 31, 2027)
(Sept. 1, 2027 - Nov. 30, 2027)
Alpine Rock Modules
(October 2027)
Ice Instructor Program
Develop expertise in guiding technical multi-pitch ice and mixed climbing routes.
