The Development History of Mountain Guide Certification
The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is considered one of the top ten classic trekking routes worldwide by mountaineering enthusiasts and was named one of the world's 20 Dream Trails by National Geographic. The entire circuit around Mont Blanc stretches 160 kilometers, making professional mountain guides essential for a successful TMB trek. These guides not only help trekkers navigate the challenging mountain terrain safely but also provide rich natural and cultural insights. Today, we explore the development history of mountain guide certification to understand how these professionals become reliable partners for climbers through rigorous training and certification.
Historical background
1970s: The Birth of the Mountain Guide Profession
The mountain guide profession emerged in the 1970s to meet the growing demand for hiking. This activity gradually became an independent recreational pursuit with significant economic benefits, distinct from traditional mountaineering. Regions like the Pyrenees, which were economically disadvantaged, capitalized on this opportunity by developing inns and marked trails for hikers. This burgeoning market attracted many self-proclaimed mountain guides, leading to strong opposition from traditional mountaineering guides.
1975: Reform and Establishment of Official Qualifications
In 1975, renowned mountaineer Pierre Mazeaud reformed the 1948 Mountain Guide Law, creating the State Diploma for Mid-Mountain Guides (Brevet d’État d’accompagnateur en moyenne montagne). While the new diploma initially caused some disruption in the traditional guide industry, the two professions eventually coexisted.
1980s: Addressing Rural Population Exodus
Meanwhile, the French Pyrenees faced significant rural population exodus in the 1980s. To address this issue, the state, through the Ministry of Agriculture, established a comprehensive mountain profession training program in Toulouse, including mountain guide training. Many trainees successfully established themselves in this field, with some new immigrants even settling in the Pyrenees.
Development of diplomas
Early Informal Qualifications
Initially, becoming a mountain guide was straightforward. Examiners and candidates knew each other, and no detailed materials or work experience were required; one only needed to demonstrate experience leading hikes to obtain a license. However, this informal certification did not last long, and formal training and examination systems were soon implemented.
2018: The Introduction of New Diplomas
In 2018, the mountain guide certification underwent significant reforms. The former sports instructor certificate was upgraded to a state diploma equivalent to an associate degree, offering more university pathways and career opportunities. Training is managed by the National Nordic Ski and Mid-Mountain Center (CNSNMM) in the Jura Mountains, similar to the National Alpine Skiing School (ENSA) in the skiing and mountaineering fields.
Obtaining the new diploma requires passing eight stages over two cycles, taking at least two years and substantial financial investment.
Step 1: Preliminary Exam
The preliminary exam assesses candidates' mountain capabilities, including a physical test, a multiple-choice test on mountain knowledge, and an interview. Only the physical test is eliminatory, and those who fail can retake it within two years.
Step 2: Formal Training
After passing the preliminary exam, candidates undergo two years of formal training, including three cycles and five modules. The training covers basic techniques and teaching, natural and cultural environments, mid-mountain snow conditions, professional environments, and guidance for different groups, as well as physiology.
Current Status
Holders of the state diploma for mountain guides must participate in a non-exam refresher course every six years and maintain their professional certification. Although the training and certification process is long and costly, it ensures guides have the necessary skills and knowledge to handle various mountain environments' challenges.
Our Altitude Trekker mountain guides have extensive experience and professional qualifications, ensuring they can provide safe and high-quality services through rigorous training and exams. Whether you want to enjoy stunning landscapes or learn about the natural and cultural environment, our guides will offer an unforgettable trekking experience, allowing you to appreciate nature's beauty, challenge yourself, and deepen your understanding of the natural world.
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