Testimonials - Canyons & Crags

What our students and clients are saying ...

Over 35 years, I’ve trained thousands of professionals and enthusiasts who now lead others safely through technical terrain worldwide. From recreational canyoneers to elite rescue teams, my students consistently report increased confidence, competence, and problem-solving abilities. Here’s what they have to say:

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.

Dave Black

I traveled all the way from Dubai to Utah to take Rich Carlson’s canyoneering rescue course — and it was worth every mile. Rich isn’t just a world-class instructor with deep technical mastery of canyoneering; he’s also one of the most humble, generous, and inspiring people I’ve met. His ability to teach complex rescue techniques with clarity and patience is unmatched, and his passion for sharing knowledge is evident in every moment of the course. We spent an unforgettable week hiking, exploring, and descending through some of the most beautiful canyons in Utah. Rich’s deep connection to the land, his vast outdoor experience, and his calm, encouraging teaching style turned the course into something far more than just a training — it was a true master class in both skill and spirit. If you’re serious about canyoneering and want to learn from the best, Rich Carlson is the person to learn from. I came halfway across the world for this, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

Amrullah Syed

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.

Joe Storms

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.

Adolfo Isassi

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!

Shane Wallace

Canyon Guide

I just completed Rich Carlson's canyon rescue workshop and wow - what an incredible learning experience! Rich has a real gift for breaking down complex rescue techniques in a way that actually makes sense. What I loved most was how he used different principles, real-world scenarios, and case studies to help everything click. You could tell he's been there and done that, and his teaching style made even the more challenging concepts feel approachable. The hands-on practice combined with his clear explanations gave me so much more confidence in my rescue skills. This workshop was absolutely worth every penny. If you're looking to level up your canyon rescue knowledge, I can't recommend Rich highly enough. He's not just knowledgeable - he's genuinely passionate about teaching and making sure everyone walks away better prepared. Thanks for such a fantastic course, Rich! I'll definitely be back for more training.

Duane Sue

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!

Rebecca Haacke

Canyon Guide

I learned more ropework in 6 days with Rich than I learned in 25 years of climbing. Thank you for introducing me to the world of canyoneering.

Tom Jones

I can't say enough great things about this 3-day canyoneering rescue course! The experience was incredibly hands-on, practical, and empowering. Our instructor, Mr. Carlson was not only highly skilled and knowledgeable but also patient, encouraging, and passionate about what he teach. We covered everything from anchor building and rope systems to real-life rescue scenarios in rugged terrain—exactly what I was looking for. Every day pushed me in the best way, building both my confidence and technical skills. The outdoor setting was stunning, and the group dynamic made it even more fun and memorable. If you're serious about canyoneering and want to learn how to stay safe, help others, and handle emergencies with skill and confidence, this course is a must. Highly recommend to anyone ready to level up in the outdoors!

Lyle J

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.

Dan Kidder

Outdoor Skills Instructor

Learning canyoneering from Rich is like learning religion from the Pope.

Briget Eastep

Southern Utah University

I absolutely love your videos and am very happy to see you active on YouTube, Rich! You have given me a lot of confidence and insight into climbing and canyoneering rope work. These videos are fantastic and really deserve more views, they are the clearest instructional videos I have ever seen and show many practical tools I haven't seen anywhere else. P.S. I am the very happy owner of several VT Prusiks and they have served me very well. Great job!

Felipe Ronderos

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.

David Meding