Canyon Rescue
ACE L4
St. George, Utah
Canyon Rescue Course
The Canyon Rescue Course will prepare you to deal with canyoneering emergencies using the gear you already carry. Learn how to react when things don’t go according to plan. You will learn numerous rescue techniques as well as when to apply them.

What You Will Learn
Rescue Hierarchy
The rescue hierarchy emphasizes a progressive approach to problem-solving, prioritizing the safest and most efficient solutions. This framework ensures that canyoneers minimize risk while maximizing self-sufficiency and group efficiency in emergency situations.
Dealing with Injury
Clear communication, efficient teamwork, and proper first aid application are crucial to managing injuries effectively in a remote canyon environment. When assisting someone with minor injuries in canyoneering, the focus is on keeping them comfortable and ensuring they can continue safely. Learn various techniques to complete rappels with an injured person.
Mechanical Advantage Systems
Mechanical advantage systems in canyoneering use pulleys and rope configurations to reduce the effort needed to haul a person or heavy load. These systems are crucial for rescues involving raising an injured teammate or overcoming difficult obstacles.
Indirect Rescue
Indirect rescue in canyoneering involves assisting a stranded or injured person without making direct physical contact, reducing risk to the rescuer. Indirect rescue is preferred whenever possible, as it maintains safety margins and avoids putting additional people in hazardous situations.
Direct Rescue
Direct rescue in canyoneering involves physically assisting an injured or stranded teammate when they are unable to self-rescue. This method carries higher risk for the rescuer and requires careful planning to ensure safety.


Topics Covered
• Knots, Rope Grabs, & Progress Capture
• Rescue Anchors and Rigging
• Haul Systems
• Mechanical Advantage
• Converting Static Rigging to Haul or Lower
• Assisted & Tandem Rappels
• Guide Ropes, Tag Lines, Belays
• Cut-and-Lower Procedures
• Pick-Off Procedures
• Special Ascending Techniques for Rescue
• Rappelling on a Tensioned Rope

Prerequisite Skills:
Direct top belay, self belay, passing knots, lowering systems, dynamic and static courtesy rappels, static block conversions, edge protection, ascending, basic mechanical advantage 3:1, 4:1, pig rig, build and inspect natural and artificial anchors, set and adjust friction, hands free lock off, personal tether use, static blocks, contingency blocks, meat anchors, fireman belay.
These skills and more are taught inTechnical Canyoneering (ACE-L1), Advanced Canyoneering (ACE-L2), and Canyon Leadership (ACE-L3)


Meet Your Instructor: T.J. Cottam
With over 22 years of canyoneering experience, T.J. is a seasoned expert in the field, dedicated to sharing the thrill of exploring nature's most breathtaking canyons. As an ACE L1-L4 Certified Instructor and ACE L5 Certified Guide, he combines extensive knowledge with a passion for safety and education.
In addition to his ACE credentials, T.J. has completed V7 Academy Level 1 and 2 training, enhancing his skills in advanced canyoneering techniques and rescue scenarios. Whether instructing novices or experienced adventurers, T.J. is committed to fostering a fun, challenging, and safe environment for all participants.
Join T.J. to experience the exhilarating beauty of canyoneering while learning from one of the best in the business!
What our Students are Saying
"TJ is a fantastic instructor. He was able to determine my level of prior experience and adjust the class according. This class was super informative. TJ is patient and very clear with his instruction. The equipment used was top notch. Our group had a great time hearing all of the experiences that TJ has had over the years! Seriously so much fun! Sign up, it’s well worth every penny!"
- Micah Y.
"TJ did an amazing job and taught a great course. I feel much more comfortable with canyoneering after this course. I would highly recommend his course and store. "
- Brayden M.

Course Includes
- 2 Days Outdoor Hands On Training
- Certificate of Completion
- Discount to Purchase Your Own Gear!