Based on the impressive level of credentials and experience among the ACG crew, I thought that they might only guide serious climbers. But turns out they are equally awesome with beginners, and with families!
Before our visit to Tucson, I connected with the owner Jayci, who was super friendly and knowledgeable, and helped us decide what kind of trip would be best for our family (including 2 kids - 9 and 12 years). It was not our first time climbing or rappelling, but we are definitely beginners and some of us (ok, just me) have a love/hate relationship with heights.
We spent what could possibly have been a perfect day canyoneering in Tanque Verde. I think we got super lucky to be guided by Mike McClarty, who is not only a superb technical climber but just a great guy all-around. He was serious about safety, serious about helping me find confidence when I was feeling the effects of exposure, and goofy in the best way about everything else -- he was especially awesome with the kids. We all learned a lot, not only about canyoneering but also about ourselves, which is for us the whole point of getting lost out there in nature. Many thanks to Mike for making it possible, and for cheering us on :-)
Our only regret is not having enough time to go out again with ACG during the week that we spent visiting Tucson. We had not anticipated how beautiful, rugged, and wild this area is, and we plan to return some day for more adventures.