Why should I hire a Certified Mountain Guide?
Why should I hire a certified mountain guide? It's a valid question and something that many people ask without really understanding what they might be missing. A certified mountain guide has two main functions: to manage risk and to manage logistics of the activity. Principally, the guide maintains the physical and psychological safety and well-being of the group. With a guide, the activity is simpler and safer. A guide is a professional mountaineer that works within his established specialization and is an expert in the techniques and equipment necessary to engage in specific activities.
Furthermore mountain guides have extension knowledge of the natural environment in which they work. These details may play a vital role in a successful outing. A guide also assesses the capabilities and expectations of each individual and the group before and during the excursion and adapts the situation, speed, or difficulty to the participants.
Other roles of a Certified Mountain Guide
A certified mountain guide teaches or passes pertinent information to the participants about topics such as technical material. The guide also facilitates and protects difficult sections during an outing and keeps the group moving together. Besides managing potentially dangerous sections, a guide also plans alternative routes and escape routes. They are also trained in first aid and how to follow protocols for emergency rescue situations.
If you have any doubt about your ability in the mountains it is a good idea to hire a certified mountain guide for your excursion. Hiring a guide is also a great way to learn new techniques even if you are a seasoned outdoor athlete. You can always learn something new. Search for a guide that specializes in your area of interest. Additionally, many guides offer courses to teach you the fundamental techniques necessary for enjoying your outing and returning safely so that you can go out again in the future.
Certified Mountain Guides in Spain
In Spain, certified mountain guides are members of the Spanish Mountain Guides Association (AEGM). Within the AEGM there are five professional guiding categories and certifications:
- International Mountain Guide (UIAGM/IGFGM/IVBV) (Guía de Alta Montaña/Técnico Deportivo Superior en Alta Montaña)
- Mountain Guide (Técnico Deportivo en Alta Montaña)
- International Mountain Leader Guide (UIMLA) (Guía de Media Montaña/Técnico Deportivo en Media Montaña)
- Canyoning Guide (Guía de Barrancos/Técnico Deportivo en Barrancos)
- Rock Climbing Guide (Guía de Escalada en Roca/Técnico Deportivo en Escalada)
Bigtime Aventura, Rich Griffeth
At Bigtime Aventura, Rich Griffeth will be your guide. He is a member of the AEGM, member #1094. He is a certified rock climbing guide, certified canyoning guide, and certified international mountain leader guide. He is also a member of the Union of International Mountain Leader Associations (UIMLA), member #3885. Contact Rich anytime to plan your active vacation and guided mountain adventure!