Rec Level 2 Hut Avalanche Course

The AIARE Rec 2 avalanche course provides backcountry users the opportunity to advance their avalanche knowledge and decision making skills

The AIARE Rec Level 2 Avalanche Course develops an understanding of snowpack formation and metamorphism. Aspen Expedition’s customized instruction maximizes student learning outcomes as they relate to backcountry travel. AE has partnered up with the 10th Mountain Division Hut Association to offer the Recreational Level 2 Avalanche Courses in the ideal backcountry learning environment. These three-night, four-day courses enable all participants to experience backcountry conditions within the Hut system by using the backcountry huts as a base for the course and fieldwork. Our longer hut-based Level 2 course places an extra emphasis on snow science and snow pit analysis and using those skills to help make informed decisions in the field.

The dates for our hut-based Level 2 Avalanche Courses are:

• March 6th – 9th, 2025 at the Peter Estin Hut

Students will come away from the course with the following information:

• Snow Metamorphism
• Surface Hoar Formation
• Stability Testing
• Observation Guidelines
• Recording Standards
• Understand the snow metamorphism process and how it relates to backcountry snow stability
• Understand weak layer formation in the snow pack
• Understand temperature gradient and its effects on snow
• Make standardized observations and recordings for weather, snowpack and avalanches
• Conduct snow testing and interpretation
• Perform a rescue

This course is designed for those who have an interest in expanding their knowledge and understanding of snow stability and snow stability factors. It is ideal for snow safety and guiding professionals, people interested in these and related careers, and recreational practitioners and group leaders who are looking for advanced knowledge and skills.

Prerequisites: Students must have the ability to travel in avalanche terrain. An AIARE Level 1 Course and Companion Rescue Course are required before taking this course. Practical experience after the Level 1 course is recommended.