Hiking Guide Training for Outdoor Leaders
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended for sustained outdoor activity and handling gear
Overview
The AHGA Hiking Guide Course provides a focused two-day training for aspiring outdoor leaders. Learn client management, stewardship, and packing essentials to lead confident hiking trips.
AHGA Hiking Guide Course
Become an AHGA certified Hiking Guide!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an adventure with the Hiking Guide Course, designed for aspiring outdoor professionals. Over two immersive days, you'll learn essential skills like client management, stewardship, and pack construction. Perfect for camp counselors, nature guides, and park rangers, this course equips you to lead unforgettable hiking experiences in diverse terrains.
Hiking Guide Course The Hiking Guide Course (HGC) is our entry level course designed for guides who run trips on terrain up to Class IV. The HGC does not cover wilderness travel on terrain above Class IV, snow covered or glaciated environments. It's perfect for outdoor professionals who are camp counselors, college outdoor club leaders, nature guides, tour guides, interpretive guides, park rangers and/or anyone looking to get trained in the outdoor education industry as a day hiking guide.
The training includes, but is not limited to, client and pace management, stewardship and access issues, permit processes, special needs clients, guides pack construction and use, and physical conditioning.
Prerequisites:
CPR/AED certification
Wilderness First Aid certification
AHGA approved Wilderness/Land Navigation course
AHGA approved Wilderness Survival course
Leave No Trace awareness
Course length: 2 days/16 hours Approved prerequisite providers can be found here: http://www.hikingtraining.com/resources.html
Course cost: $250.00
Available locations: Delaware Water National Recreation Area, NJ Allamuchy State Park, NJ Cheesequake State Park, NJ Crowders Mountain State Park, NC Rock Creek Park, DC Ocala National Forest, FL Catskills, NY Ralph Stover State Park, PA Adirondack State Park, NY Ozark National Forest, AR Missouri (various locations) South Mountain Park, AZ Oak Creek Canyon, AZ
Private courses at your location are available. Please call our office for details on how to set this up or host a course.
Adventure Tips
Prioritize Pack Comfort
Master pack construction to ensure stability and comfort during long hikes, reducing fatigue.
Practice Client Communication
Effective communication helps manage group dynamics and enhances the safety of all participants.
Apply Leave No Trace Principles
Integrate stewardship practices into guiding to protect natural habitats while outdoors.
Prepare for Variable Terrain
Develop skills to adapt to different hiking environments, improving guide readiness.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Local songbirds
- Small mammals typical of woodland areas
History
The American Hiking Guides Association supports outdoor education by setting professional guiding standards since its founding.
Conservation
The course emphasizes minimal environmental impact and responsible hiking practices to preserve natural trails and wildlife.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Supportive Hiking Boots
Provides necessary footing and protection for varied terrain during training.
Daypack with Adjustable Suspension
Essential for practicing correct pack construction and load distribution.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Ensures comfort and safety across changing outdoor conditions.
Notebook and Writing Tools
Useful for taking detailed notes during instructional sessions.