Level 1 Avalanche Course:
Decision Making in Avy Terrain
$315
January 14 - 16, 2012
February 18 - 20, 2012
Simply the finest Avalanche education in southwest Colorado. Our instructors are much more than just ski guides, they are professional educators.
Our 3 day AIARE Qualified Level 1 Avalanche Course provides a complete introduction to the avalanche phenomenon, avalanche terrain, decision making, and rescue protocol. This course fulfillls the requirements of an AIARE Level 1 Course and is 3 days long. The Level 1 course is part of an education stream which includes both a Level 2 and Level 3 progression. This is a comprehensive course for those new to travel in avalanche terrain. Highlights include a small class size, professional level curriculum, and skier/snowboarder oriented instruction. Participants in the Level 1 Course can expect a minimum of about 8 hours of classroom instruction and about 16 hours of field instruction in the following subjects:
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Types of avalanches
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Characteristics of avalanches
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How avalanches form and release
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Assessing avalanche terrain
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Trip planning and preparation
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Route Finding
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Decision making
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Rescue protocols and procedures
We meet at 8:00 am on the first day and spend a full day in the classroom learning terminology and general avalanche principles. The following two days are spent in the field between Coal Bank and Red Mountain Passes.
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Classroom day. Meet at our office at 8:00 am to finalize course paperwork. The group will then begin the classroom portion of the class. This will serve as a complete introduction to the course. There will be a 1 hour lunch and the day will finish at approximately 5:00pm.
Day 2: Field session, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm. Today we will spend the entire day in the field on Molas Pass. Topics covered will include test pit construction, beacon searching, companion rescue. Instructors will demonstrate each topic and then students will practice under observation.
Day 3: Field session, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm. Today we will complete a tour on Red Mountain Pass. Students will be asked to make decisions with regard to route finding, and terrain management. We'll select a slope to ski and assess the stability of the slope for descent purposes.
Additional Information
Trip Cost Includes: AIARE Qualified Instructors and AMGA Certified/Trained Guides. Level 1 course manual and completion certificate. Use of avalanche probe, shovel, and beacon. Touring boots, skis/snowshoes, poles, and climbing skins are available for demo free of charge from our shop.
Not Included: Hotel costs before, during or after the courses, trip cancellation insurance, personal skiing, or gratuities.
Prerequisites: Participants will need to have an established method of backcountry travel for field days (skis and skins, or snowshoes). These courses take place outside in winter conditions. All participants need to be prepared for physical exertion in cold and perhaps poor weather. Participants will need to have appropriate warm, winter clothing and gear.
Contact the office via phone or email and we will get you registered!
