ACA certified Assistant Pro Canyon Guides are individuals who have attained and demonstrated a high level of technical competence through rigorous training and examination that meets and exceeds international standards. For prospective clients and students, ACA certification provides a decisive tool for choosing the right guide/instructor to help them achieve their objectives.

Assistant Pro Canyon Guides have successfully passed the ACA’s  3-day Assistant Pro Guide course and 2-day Assistant Pro Guide Assessment.

Assistant Pro Canyon Guide -- Step by Step

  1. Prerequisite: Must be a current ACA Assistant Canyon Leader.
  2. Take the Assistant Pro Guide 3-day Course.
  3. Perform 2-day Internship (coordinate with Pro Guide).
  4. Pass the ACA's Assistant Pro Guide 2-day in-canyon Assessment.
    • Prerequisite: 25 canyon descents completed by the time of Assessment.
  5. Submit a Canyon Resume that reflects the following:
    • minimum of 50 canyon descents
    • minimum of 15 unique canyons descended
  6. Submit the appropriate First Aid / CPR certification (WFR for USA)
  7. Create and maintain your member profile on the ACA's website

How long does Assistant Pro Guide designation last?

Assistant Pro Guide designation is valid for three years.

How do I renew my Assistant Pro Guide designation?

To renew, you must before expiration:

Retake the assessment.

OR...

Participate in 16 hours of continuing education + 2 Training Events (GLAR/Rondys/Ground School/Intro Classes)

AND...

  1. Must hold a valid WFR certification (or Intn’l equivalent).
  2. Keep your member profile current on the ACA's website,

What people are saying …

"Super helpful class - I learned a lot of rappelling and rappel set up techniques that I can't wait to use on my next trip. In the meantime, I have A LOT to practice."

May 28, 2015

"My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed the course and now have a new rule for choosing canyoneering partners - ACA course graduates only. You guys are the real deal and you are raising the bar for all canyoneers.”

May 23, 2015

"All I can say is WOW! Terrific course. I had already taken a course from a private guide service and was concerned I might not learn anything new in the ACA basic course. My concerns were totally unfounded. I paid half as much for the ACA course and learned at least twice as much. By my math that's four times the value. Keep up the good work, ACA."

May 28, 2015

"I just wanted to let you know I had a great time at the canyoneering course. Thank you guys for being so flexible with the group and for making sure we were all being taught material that suited our experience and interests. I hope to be able to attend one of the advanced courses in the next year."

August 28, 2019

"It's unbelievable how much we have learned in one week. Great teaching and patience displayed by all instructors. Great body of knowledge taught. Good hands-on experience. Good pace and sequence of topics."

July 14, 2019