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AMGA is the leader in education, standards, and advocacy for professional guides and climbing instructors.

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Facilitate climbing experiences

Climbing Instructor Programs (CIP)

Climbing Instructor Programs are intended for individuals who facilitate climbing experiences, instruct climbing skills, and/or monitor climbing activities. Climbing instructors typically work with higher student-teacher ratios and focus on educating and teaching skills to clients. The International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation (UIAA) has endorsed the AMGA’s Single Pitch Instructor and Climbing Wall Instructor certificates. The UIAA sets world standards for Climbing Instructor certification

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All Climbing Instructor Programs

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A woman climbs an indoor rock wall while people watch from below.
Climbing Wall Instructor Program
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Train to manage and instruct at indoor or artificial climbing wall facilities.

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Two people wearing helmets and climbing gear stand on a rock, preparing for a climb.
Single Pitch Instructor Program
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The industry standard for teaching rock climbing in a single-pitch setting.

Training Mountain Guides

Mountain Guide Programs (MGP)

Mountain Guide Programs are intended for individuals with extensive recreational experience who aspire to guide clients in technical Rock, Alpine, and Ski Terrain. Emphasis is placed on effective risk management and high client reward. Guides who complete all three disciplines of the program become International Federation of Mountain Guides Association (IFMGA/UIAGM) guides.

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A climber in red gear ascends a steep icy slope near a rocky cliff face.

All Mountain Guide Programs

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Person climbing a steep, rocky mountain peak with snow-covered mountains in the background.
Alpine Guide Program
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Gain the skills to guide on peaks, glaciers, and technical alpine terrain in all conditions.

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A person wearing bright colors ascending an ice wall on a rocky mountain face using ice picks.
Ice Instructor Program
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Develop expertise in guiding technical multi-pitch ice and mixed climbing routes.

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A climber wearing a helmet is securely attached to ropes while ascending a steep rock face.
Multi-Pitch Instructor Program
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Learn to guide and teach on shorter, technical multi-pitch rock climbing routes.

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Two people in climbing gear stand on a large rock formation, overlooking a forested area.
Rock Guide Program
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Train to guide multi-pitch rock climbs with advanced techniques for safety and efficiency.

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Two skiers in colorful gear stand on a snowy mountain, looking out onto the landscape.
Ski & Splitboard Guide Program
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Master backcountry ski and splitboard guiding for peak descents, bowls, trees, and glacial terrain.

Breaking barriers

Affinity Programs

Since 2018, the AMGA has sought to create welcoming and empowering environments by offering affinity based programs that promote greater access to training, mentorship, and professional development.

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get amga endorsement

AMGA Business Accreditation

Accreditation provides a consistent standard for judging the reliability and professionalism of a business by ensuring it:

  • Conforms to industry standards
  • Guarantees rigorous and uniform guide training
  • Is compliant with state and federal law
  • Promotes ethical business practices
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Three climbers hike up a snowy mountain slope, using ropes for safety.
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