American Mountain Guide Association Single Pitch Instructor Course & Certification Programs
AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Course
- Gain the next level skills and training for becoming a professional climbing instructor.
- First course in the AMGA sequence of the professional climbing instructor and rock guide training and certification progression.
- Prerequisite skills and personal climbing resume required to apply.
- Three day hands on course.
Setting the Standards of the Industry
The AMGA SPI course curriculum is designed to fit the needs of private climbing schools, guide services, collegiate climbing programs, aspiring climbing guides, and therapeutic outdoor program professionals.
The course addresses fundamental educational and environmental principles as they relate to teaching climbing to diverse populations. It covers the technical skills, risk management considerations necessary that apply to the varied single pitch terrain found throughout the US.
SPI Certification
Those seeking certification may go on to take the separate two day field exam following the course at any time within three years of successfully completing the course.
Contact us for registration packet and any questions.
Course location: Smith Rock State Park
Cost: $650
AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Exam
Those seeking certification may go on to take a scheduled two day SPI Exam within three years after successfully completing the SPI course. The exam tests participants' performance and knowledge of industry standard practices. Those who attain certification are expected to demonstrate the technical and educational proficiencies necessary to instruct a variety of top rope rock climbing skills with both groups and individuals efficiently, decisively, safely, and professionally. Participants will need to demonstrate these skills in any natural setting as well as movement and lead skills assessment.
- Completion of SPI Course required within 3 years prior to exam.
- 2 day intensive, pass/fail assessment of instruction and technical skills.
- SPI Certification is good for 3 years, re-exam required.
- Current AMGA Professional membership required.
Exam location: Smith Rock State Park
Cost: $475
AMGA SPI PROGRAM DATES
SPI Courses 2025
March 17-19 / April 12-14 / May 10-12
Sept TBD
Oct TBD
SPI Exams 2025
March 21-22 / April 18-19 / May 16-17
Sept TBD
Oct TBD
You may request customized SPI Program dates or locations. Minimum of 3 participants to run an SPI Program.
Our AMGA SPI Program Providers
Our lead clinic presenters have 50+ combined years of professional guiding experience at Smith Rock. They are psyched to share their personal and professional knowledge and experience and present and practice these essential skills with you!
Jim Ablao
- AMGA Certified Rock Guide
- AMGA Certified Rock Instructor
- AMGA SPI Provider, CWI Provider
- AMGA SPI Certification Provider Trainer
Gabe Coler
- IFMGA American Mountain Guide
Course Dates
If the listed dates above don’t work with your schedule, all courses can be arranged as a Private course on the dates you choose. Minimum of 3 course participants.
Private Guided Day Trips
