Yosemite Rock Climbing Trips

Professional Climbing Guides Institute

Rock Climbing

Single Pitch Guide Training page

The Single Pitch Guide Training (SPGT) is designed as an introduction to guiding techniques common to 5th class single pitch guided climbs that are grade I. The guiding terrain will most often involve straightforward approaches and descents. Many of the climbing areas in the United States are comprised of grade I terrain.

A primary goal of this training is to provide a forum of open ideas while presenting practical guiding skill standards. The SPGT will consist of technical, hands-on guide training. The training days will consist of: discussion of common guide concerns, instructor demonstrations of common guiding techniques and skills, and most importantly, participant practice of the guiding skills presented.

The rescue assessment is not offered as part of the SPGT. Passing the rescue assessment component is required to qualify for the SPG Assessment. Rescue assessments are scheduled the day before each SPG Assessments. A separate rescue assessment can be scheduled for participants according to availability.

  • SPGT - Prerequisites:
  • 1) Ability to comfortably lead traditional and sport 5.8 single-pitch rock climbs
  • 2) Own and bring appropriate ropes and gear/rack for leading single-pitch rock climbs (see gear list for more information)
  • 3) Experience with and ability to build solid climbing anchors with traditional climbing gear, i.e. stoppers, cams, hexes, tri-cams, etc.
  • 4) Climbing experience of at least 2 years.
  • 5) Working knowledge of the following knots and hitches:
  • a. Clove hitch
  • b. Munter hitch and Munter mule
  • c. Figure eight and overhand on bite
  • d. Friction hitches
  • e. Figure eight follow through
  • f. Bowline
  • g. Double figure eight and overhand
  • h. Double fisherman

Note: Prerequisites are taken seriously. Anyone who cannot demonstrate mastery of the prerequisites may be told to leave the course with no refund.

For more information on PCGI standards please visit the PCGI web site.

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