Turn Climber Into Coach: The AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Course in Moab

MOAB CLIMBING FIELD GUIDE

Turn Climber Into Coach: The AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Course in Moab

A three-day AMGA SPI course run by Red River Adventures in Moab that trains experienced recreational climbers to teach at single-pitch crags.

Turn Climber Into Coach: The AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Course in Moab.

Duration
3 Days
Location
Moab
Operator
Red River Adventures
Category
Climbing
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Set against Utah’s red-rock amphitheaters, the AMGA Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) Course with Red River Adventures is a focused, three-day program that helps capable recreational climbers convert technical ability into effective instruction under certified staff.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LEGACY

Utah’s Longest-Running SPI Provider

Red River Adventures has offered Single Pitch Instructor training in Utah since 2008 and has delivered more SPI courses than any other local guide service—experience that anchors their curriculum and course delivery.

THE INSTRUCTORS

Certified, Lead-Level Instructors

Instruction is delivered by experienced lead instructors, including IFMGA or rock-certified guides, ensuring students learn teaching technique and risk management from credentialed professionals.

THE SETTING

Hands-On Training at Local Single-Pitch Crags

The course is centered on single-pitch environments in Utah, with Red River operating locally out of both Moab and Salt Lake City to place students where real-world single-pitch instruction happens.

What the day feels like

What Three Days in Moab Feels Like

Across three immersive days (27 hours total), participants move from demonstration to practice—refining anchoring, belay technique, student management, and on-site teaching while instructors provide feedback and real-time coaching.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this course is for—and who should prepare further before enrolling.

1
Aspiring InstructorsIdeal for climbers who want to transition to teaching: the SPI is the first formal AMGA instructor-level course and is designed to teach instructional skills for single-pitch crags.
2
Experienced Recreational ClimbersA strong match if you have at least 12 months of climbing experience, trad lead experience and have led at least 15 routes—the course expects active climbing background.
3
Less-Experienced ClimbersNot ideal unless you meet the minimum prerequisites; candidates lacking the required background are unlikely to fully benefit and are advised to get evaluated or take a skills day first.
4
Career Guide CandidatesA stepping stone for those pursuing guide certification—this course is the first in the AMGA instructional sequence and helps establish foundational teaching skills.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

The course runs three full days, totaling 27 hours of instruction.

Meeting Point

The Moab meeting location is 1140 S Main St, Moab, UT 84532.

What to Bring

The course description emphasizes prerequisites and instructional objectives; students should confirm a detailed gear list with the operator prior to arrival (no specific gear roster is provided in the summary).

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the AMGA SPI Course in Moab?

The program is three full days, totaling 27 hours of instruction.

Where and when do we meet for the course?

Participants meet at Red River Adventures’ Moab location: 1140 S Main St, Moab, UT 84532.

What are the course prerequisites?

You must be at least 18 years old, have at least 12 months of prior climbing experience, trad lead-climbed a minimum of 15 routes, and be comfortable climbing 5.8 on top rope.

Who instructs the SPI course?

Red River Adventures staffs the course with experienced lead instructors, including IFMGA or rock-certified personnel.

Is tipping expected for guides?

Tipping is voluntary but appreciated; U.S. guidelines are similar to restaurant gratuities (roughly 15–20%) and the operator notes that if guides meet or exceed expectations, a gratuity is customary.