The AIARE Level 1 Avalanche Course provides a complete introduction to the avalanche phenomenon, avalanche terrain, decision making, and rescue
In a continental snowpack such as the Elk Mountains, AEW’s customized instruction maximizes student learning outcomes as they relate to backcountry travel. Aspen Expeditions has been teaching avalanche courses since 1980 and has an intimate knowledge of the Colorado snowpack. The AIARE instructors, IFMGA/AMGA trained/certified ski guides, have extensive experience guiding, teaching and skiing the backcountry. Aspen Expeditions’ mountain guide service combines experience, knowledge-base, and access to backcountry ski terrain in Colorado’s White River National Forest.
Subjects covered include:
- Types of avalanches
- Characteristics of avalanches
- How avalanches form and release
- Assessing avalanche terrain
- Trip planning and preparation
- Route Finding Decision making
- Avalanche gear review (beacons, probes, airbags, etc.)
- Rescue protocols and procedures
Trip Details
Duration
2 field days and 1 classroom day or 3 evening Zooms
Difficulty
Some skiing experience necessary
Maximum Guide Ratio
6:1
Included
- AIARE and AMGA trained/certified guide
- Beacon, shovel, and probe (if you have your own you should practice with it!)
- AIARE field book & student fees
Not Included
- Personal skiing/riding equipment*
- Single ride lift tickets, if required ($41; gains us high elevation access on Aspen Mountain via a one-time gondola ride)
- Lunch/snack food
- Guide gratuity
*Alpine Touring (AT) ski or snowboard equipment is available for demo at 50% discount from our partners Cripple Creek Backcountry
Trip Itinerary
Your instructor will send you an email prior with more information about the course, classroom instruction, and meeting location.
- Day 1 – 6 pm: Two evening classroom Zooms, Pre-course work
- Day 2 – 8:30 am: Field instruction, 6 pm evening classroom Zoom
- Day 3 – 8:30 am: Field instruction
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