Ski Guide Exam

Goal: To certify guides to work as unsupervised backcountry ski guides. Successful candidates are capable of being trained as lead guides in mechanized and ski touring/mountaineering operations.

Format: This is a ski mountaineering exam based in a lodge or camp in remote glaciated terrain. This scenario gives the ACMG and the candidate the best opportunity to demonstrate and practice the decision making and judgement skills that challenge the independent ski guide. The skills tested are also generic guiding standards that are common to "lead guides" in any mechanized ski business. Once you have passed this course the skills you have displayed are applicable to a variety of occupations including cat skiing, helicopter skiing, and ski touring. The testing is physically and mentally difficult.

Expectations: Candidates are expected to arrive with a working knowledge of the information covered in the Guide Training Ski course, Assistant Ski Guide exam, CAA Level 2 course and the ACMG manual "Technical Handbook for Professional Mountain Guides." The participants are expected to arrive in good health and capable of completing a week of strenuous touring and ski mountaineering.

Special Exam Areas: There may be exams in the following areas: Improvised Rescue (this skill, like transceiver search, is a prerequisite for mountain travel). Candidates may be asked to demonstrate a "rescue response" including radio call out, first aid, and team management. Candidates must have a reasonable proficiency in this category to complete the exam.

Location and Length: An 8 day course run mid April. Location varies but is usually helicopter access in glaciated terrain. Examples: Nirvana Pass, Athelny Pass (coast ranges); Azure Pass (Cariboo Range), Moberly Pass (Selkirks), Albert Icefields (Selkirks), Numtijah Lodge, Mummery/Freshfield Glaciers (Rockies).