Do I need prior climbing experience to enroll?

Yes, you should have solid climbing and belaying skills as this course builds on that foundation.

Is the certification recognized nationally?

Yes, the SPI certification is internationally recognized by climbing organizations.

What is the typical group size for the course?

Groups usually range from 6 to 12 participants to ensure effective instruction.

Are there prerequisites for taking the SPI Course?

You must demonstrate proficient single-pitch lead climbing and belaying skills before enrollment.

Is climbing gear provided during the course?

Participants should bring their own personal climbing gear to ensure proper fit and safety.

Can this course lead to other certifications?

Yes, SPI certification is the first step toward advanced instructor certifications like the Alpine or Outdoor Leader programs.

Single Pitch Climbing Instructor Course in City of Rocks, ID

The Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) Course held at City of Rocks, Idaho, offers climbers a rare opportunity to elevate their expertise in one of the Northwest’s premier granite climbing destinations. Known for its striking monzogranite spires and domes formed over 700 million years ago, City of Rocks features over a thousand single-pitch routes ranging from beginner-friendly cracks to technical face climbs. This 27-hour, internationally recognized training is tailored for active climbers ready to transition from participant to educator, equipping them with the skills needed to confidently teach climbing in single-pitch environments.

City of Rocks itself is a historic climbing mecca situated near the town of Almo and is often hailed for its unique concentration of rock formations, including rounded pinnacles and vertical walls that provide excellent protection opportunities, making it a perfect natural classroom. The area’s climbing history dates to the mid-20th century and has fostered a tight-knit climbing community that values safety, conservation, and education.

Participants in the SPI Course benefit not just from technical instruction on anchors, belaying, and rope management, but also learn teaching methodology and risk assessment crucial for guiding beginners. This course is unique to the region, as few climbing institutions offer such focused, comprehensive programming in City of Rocks, making it a standout destination for aspiring instructors looking to certify in a world-class setting.

Beyond climbing, the location’s high desert environment hosts sagebrush flats and wildflower meadows, with wildlife such as mule deer and peregrine falcons frequently spotted. The course’s emphasis on environmental stewardship ensures students appreciate and protect this fragile ecosystem. This program is a vital link in the local climbing ecosystem, preparing educators who will sustain safe, responsible climbing culture in City of Rocks and beyond.

About The Backcountry Pros LLC

The Backcountry Pros LLC is a Utah-based guiding and education company specializing in backcountry skiing, avalanche education, and technical climbing instruction. The team offers a range of hands-on experiences — from single-day clinics to multi-day mentorships and heli-assisted ski touring — focused on practical skills, decision-making, and safe mountain travel. Instructional offerings include Advanced Backcountry Skiing Mentorship, Backcountry Skiing Mentorship, Ski Mountaineering Course, Level I (Uinta Mountains), Avalanche I Refresher, Heli Assisted Ski Touring, Intro to Trad Climbing, Multi Pitch Self Rescue, Advanced Ice Techniques, and Ice Intro Clinic.

Courses combine classroom and fieldwork when appropriate, with Zoom sessions, guided field days, basecamp-style mentorship, and real-world scenario practice. The Backcountry Pros LLC emphasizes small groups and a limited instructor-to-student ratio to maximize individualized feedback and hands-on coaching. Professional ski instructors and certified guides lead technical lessons in the Wasatch and Uinta Mountains, covering avalanche forecasting, companion rescue, ski travel techniques, ice screw placement, anchor building, and multi-pitch self-rescue.

Safety and evidence-based decision making are core priorities; students practice terrain assessment, hazard interpretation, and rescue drills in real mountain settings. The company’s programs are designed for progressing skiers and climbers seeking measurable skill development, confidence in complex terrain, and the ability to plan and execute safe backcountry trips. Booking information, prerequisite details, and course logistics are provided for each trip to ensure participants arrive prepared for a productive and secure learning experience. Industry-standard safety protocols and hands-on mentorship create measurable progress and lasting skills for responsible mountain travel across winter and alpine environments.