As a BSA Project COPE Driector, a BSA Climbing and Rappelling Director, as chairman of the local Council Climbing and Rappelling Committee, I need to log on and correct a few misconceptions.
First, I strongly suggest you read the rules regarding high adventure, starting with the Guide to Safe Scouting, Climb On Safely, Safe Swim/Safety Afloat, Caving (joint with the NSS) and so on- there are many others for other specific activities. The 2 minute summary is, there is nothing stopping you from using a private guide service, as long as they are properly qualified, insured, etc. The gene