Outdoor Recreation: How to Choose a Qualified Rock Climbing Guide

As outdoor sports have become more popular over the last decade, so has the demand for experienced guides. Right now there is a shortage of qualified staff in the outdoors recreation profession. This is a brief summary of issues that should be considered when hiring a guide service.

The risk of mishaps with guide services right now is acute. The rising popularity of outdoor recreation has grown faster than the supply of experienced guides. Mishaps are especially likely when "green guides" are at the helm. Many guide services may claim to be the "oldest," "most established," etc., but a simple checklist of questions to ask yourself and the guide service should clearly put to rest which guide service to hire.

Rock-About easily exceeds all of the requirements below.

What is the cost of the trip? Is a cheaper price really worth the risk?
In outdoor recreation, the adage holds true; you get what you pay for.

• Ask about guide training. Will your guide have AMGA (American Mountain Guides Association) training certification?
• Ask about client to guide ratios: are they small or large?
• Do they have medical training?
• Do they use quality gear and keep it in professional condition?
• What is the company's safety record?
• Seek experience: good companies retain seasoned guides. Good guides should have several years of field experience with clients.
• Ask to see the resumes of your guide. Ask specifically who your guides will be, their number of years of guiding experience and where they have guided.
• A reputable guide service should have decent liability insurance coverage.