Take your Swiftwater Rescue skills to the next level with this Advanced SWR workshop. Practice aggressive swimming, rope work, and accessing challenging locations. Up your river rescue game!
It is a prerequisite to have taken an ACA L5 Swiftwater Rescue class or equivalent. This class will only review much of the classroom and theory of river rescue and instead focus on being a next tier skills development workshop for in water rescues and mechanical advantage systems.
Course Overview: The Advanced Swiftwater Rescue (L5) workshop is aimed at trip leaders, boaters paddling on more challenging whitewater, and anyone desiring opportunities to develop their rescue skills. Critical judgment and rescue awareness, impacting both personal and group safety, are emphasized throughout the course. Although new skills may be taught, this class focuses on developing judgment and applying skills in rescue scenarios. Scope and content of the course will vary, based upon participant needs, interests and experience.
Course Objectives:
Reinforce basic rescue skills, including swimming/self-rescue, throw ropes, and boat based rescue
Practice skills during multiple scenarios
Refine and extend critical judgment through multiple scenarios
Develop and practice more advanced rope-based and in-water skills
Please review the Essential Eligibility Criteria (EEC) and a basic gear list here.
Join Our Two-Day Swiftwater Safety & Rescue Clinic!
Held on the scenic Arkansas River near Salida, this hands-on clinic is designed for river enthusiasts of all skill levels—whether you're a beginner, a private boater, or an experienced commercial guide. Our goal is to provide you with the skills and confidence to stay safe on the water and respond effectively in emergencies.
What You’ll Learn:
Gain practical experience in assessing river conditions, making smart decisions, and handling swiftwater rescue situations with confidence. Throughout the course, you'll develop critical skills to ensure both personal and group safety.
Topics Include:
River rescue techniques tailored for real-world scenarios
Whitewater swimming and self-rescue skills
Effective throw bagging techniques
Planning for swiftwater situations
Extractions and synches for complex rescues
Mechanical advantage systems for efficient rescue operations
Through a hands-on, practical approach, you'll have the opportunity to practice these skills in real river conditions, working alongside experienced instructors in a supportive environment. Teamwork, communication, and staying calm under pressure will be key themes throughout the clinic.
Certification:
Upon successful completion, participants will receive an ACA Swiftwater Rescue (SWR) Certificate of Completion, a respected credential recognized by raft guides, river professionals, and outdoor educators.
Who Should Attend?
Whether you’re looking to build new river safety skills or refresh your existing knowledge, this clinic is ideal for anyone who wants to feel more prepared and confident on the water.
We look forward to helping you build the skills you need for safe and enjoyable river adventures!
Offered in 2026:
May 2 - 3
July 6 - 7
August 8 - 9
Select date below: