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 …

"It was immediately obvious that your instructors are not just canyoneers, turned guides, turned instructors. The course structure and quality of instruction was as good or better than any college course I have ever taken. Very professional."

May 28, 2015

"Excellent course. Well thought out. I felt I learned a great deal and had a lot of fun doing it."

June 18, 2019

"Even though I have climbed for 15 years, I learned a lot of new, cool techniques. Wow! Great course."

May 28, 2015

"This was a great opportunity for me to get exposure to a myriad of new techniques for use in future canyoneering exploits. The experience and perspective of the instructors added another dimension and contributed greatly to the value of the course."

May 28, 2015

"I have been a rock climber for over a decade and didn't really expect to learn anything new. Was I ever wrong. I didn't realize that there were so many specialized systems employed in canyoneering. All of it makes sense. Rock climbing systems are fine for dry rock, but not at all appropriate in a canyon - especially if there is water present."

May 28, 2015