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Totem Rapid Access Team

I help rescue professionals and dedicated volunteers transform from gear-heavy, protocol-dependent responders into efficient problem-solvers who can execute complex rescues using ultralight systems and improvisational techniques that work when standard equipment fails and scenarios don't match the textbook.

Ultralight Rescue Master Class
Rich Carlson has spent 35+ years developing ultralight rescue techniques that work in the real world – not just on training towers. As the designer of the Rock Exotica Totem, the BlueWater VT Prusik, and other innovative rescue gear, Rich teaches rescue professionals and dedicated volunteers how to execute complex rescues using minimal, multi-purpose equipment.
 
Our principles-based approach teaches you to think through anchor and rigging decisions rather than memorize procedures. You’ll learn to assess scenarios, adapt techniques, and improvise solutions using ultralight systems – giving you the confidence to handle any rescue situation, even when standard protocols don’t apply and heavy gear isn’t available.

The ADAPTABLE TOTEM RESPONSE RACK (A-TRR) – inspired by North American Rescue’s Totem-based A-VRR (Adaptable Vertical Response Rack).

Our A-TRR is similar, but includes items that are compatible with the systems and techniques we have been teaching in our rescue, rigging and rappelling courses over the years.

Check out TOTEM RIGGING for more information.

Master rescue rappelling techniques that work in real-world emergencies. This intensive workshop teaches intermediate to advanced students how to execute complex rescues using ultralight systems – including patient packaging, multi-person rappels, and improvised rigging when standard setups aren’t possible.

Become a certified Rappel Master with advanced skills in managing rappel operations and supervising others. This intensive program teaches rope rescue techniques, risk assessment, and leadership principles using Rich’s proven methods developed over 35+ years of training professionals worldwide. Ideal for rescue personnel, guides, and outdoor professionals who need to lead rappel operations safely and confidently.

Master ultralight rigging and rescue techniques using the innovative A-TRR (Adaptable Totem Response Rack). Learn to execute complex rescues with minimal gear through hands-on training in improvised rigging, quick deployment systems, and multi-purpose gear applications. Develop the problem-solving skills to adapt and innovate when standard equipment isn’t available or practical.

PURSUE TRAINING

What our students and clients are saying ...

Dave Black
Dave Black
Canyon Guide, Retired
Rich Carlson could be considered the father of American canyoneering because of his influence on style, technique, and ethics. In 1999 Carlson established the American Canyoneering Association to promote safety, responsibility, and ethics in American canyoneering. Rich and the ACA have been critical factors in building national standards that have become the cornerstone of canyoneering at the recreational and professional levels throughout the Americas.
Rebecca Haacke
Rebecca Haacke
Canyon Guide
I have had the opportunity to take several courses from Rich Carlson, and have come away with so much more new information than I expected. His depth of knowledge and experience is invaluable and it seems the more I learn, the more he has to teach. I most enjoy that no matter your level of rope work education, Rich makes the curriculum easy to grasp, and offers concepts and methods that challenge even the most skilled students. Rich has taught me that every situation has nuances that dictate the options and applicable best practice, and that “it depends” is an important mantra to prevent getting stuck in a “one size fits all” mentality. I have greatly benefited from Rich’s instruction and highly recommend!
Joe Storms
Joe Storms
Canyon Guide, Canada
I have known you for a long time now and I want to express my thoughts. It’s going to sound a little mushy. I have appreciated the leadership and intimate details you display with training. Your knowledge on several subjects is next level ( I have no other way to describe it). I enjoy watching you head off students before they meander down the road of no return, meaning you know exactly the mistakes they are about to make before they even know they are headed in that direction. I have learned an immense amount from you and for that I am grateful.
Adolfo Isassi
Adolfo Isassi
Canyon Guide
The canyoneering classes that I have taken from Rich Carlson not only have been a passport to places only accessible via rope work, but have created a foundation of understanding of risk management in natural vertical environments. If you are looking for a path of self-reliance and clear understanding of canyoneering and rope work, look no further.
David Meding
David Meding
My first course was taken over 20 years ago. But what I learned that week, and over several continuing courses, rendezvous, workshops and outings was a safe and efficient method to explore the marvel of the world of slot canyons. These courses are invaluable for those who not only want to become competent canyoneers, they are also a resource for learning how to solve problems and prepare for the unexpected while in the wilderness. They are also a huge resource for making contacts with like minded adventurers. The canyoneering community is small, but it is huge compared to when I entered it. I have met many wonderfully fascinating people over the years and have made friendships that continue to this day. I have explored canyons in numerous states and several foreign countries. I have survived close calls because of what I learned through these courses and I have taught what I have learned to numerous others. I can’t thank Rich enough for the years and patience and guidance.
Dan Kidder
Dan Kidder
Outdoor Skills Instructor
I have trained with Rich and not only do I see the immense value of his knowledge, I also see the practical benefit of sharing that knowledge. Beyond the technical expertise, he provides the tools to help you think through the challenge, and apply the knowledge. His training will make you safer, more prepared, and a better leader or guide.
Briget Eastep
Briget Eastep
Southern Utah University
Learning canyoneering from Rich is like learning religion from the Pope.
Takman Rai
Takman Rai
Canyon Guide, Nepal
Rich is a very good instructor, with a gift for training. I gained a lot of knowledge and experience from him. He provides a great mix of listening, explaining and practice activities to provide a very safe, supportive learning environment.
Shane Wallace
Shane Wallace
Canyon Guide
When I first got into canyoneering I quickly realized that I needed some training. While doing a deep internet search, two names kept popping up as people I might want to train me. When I found out that Rich Carlson had trained the other guy I knew I wanted him as my instructor. Over the years I have received training from other instructors, but I consider my training from Rich to be the best. Rich has taught me so much about canyoneering and I still learn every time I attend a course with him. I never thought I would go as far as becoming a guide and instructor myself, but here I am and I thank Rich for all he has taught me. He gives more than his knowledge to the community around the world and it’s usually for minimal financial gain. Rich was my instructor in the beginning and now he is also my friend. Thanks Rich!
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Train at our ropes facility near Pahrump Nevada - 45 minutes west of Las Vegas - or at your venue.