Aspen Private AIARE Level 1 Avalanche Course

Group Size

6 people per guide

Duration

2 days

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.

The Level 1 Course includes +/-8 hours of classroom instruction and +/-16 hours of field instruction.

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

Included: Avalanche beacon, shovel, and probe, AIARE dues, and an AIARE field book

Not Included: Personal skiing equipment (Alpine Touring (AT) ski, or snowboard equipment, single ride lift tickets, and lunch/snack food