Description

Ever dream of floating through untouched powder, away from the crowded ski resorts? Whether you’re new to backcountry riding or looking to refine your skills, knowing how to stay prepared and safe while carving fresh tracks can make the difference between an ear-to-ear grin and a rough slog in the snow.

This is a 5-day course, with 3 days in the field and 2 days in an online learning setting. Designed to cover essential topics for backcountry riders, this course follows the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) curriculum. It provides a solid foundation for beginners to learn in-depth backcountry skiing or splitboarding skills and engage in hands on avalanche education.

In addition to the AIARE courses, one day will be dedicated to focusing on various backcountry skiing techniques, including skinning uphill, making kick turns, and executing safe descents. Whether you ski or splitboard, our expert guides will assess your current riding ability and tailor the course itinerary to ensure an optimal learning environment.

Sample Itinerary(Subject to change based on weather conditions):

Day 1 + 2: Online zoom meeting/AIARE 1: (3 hours): Learn the basics of avalanche awareness and avoidance.

Day 3: Intro to Backcountry Skiing: Head to the backcountry to practice essential skills for backcountry riding including, efficient skinning uphill, setting tracks, choosing terrain, descending skills, and where to find the best snow.

Day 4+5: AIARE 1 course: Cover in depth how to read avalanche terrain and conditions, and understanding snow science through snow pits.

Dates/Price
Course Dates Price Location Course Length Difficulty Rating
Course DatesDecember 12th-14th, 2025 Price$829 LocationI70 Corridor and Online Course Length3 days + 2 Online Difficulty Rating4/10
Course DatesOnline Dates- Dec 2nd, 6-8pm and Dec 11th, 6-7pm Price Location Course Length Difficulty Rating
Course DatesFebruary 20th-22nd 2026 Price$829 LocationRMNP and Online Course Length3 days + 2 Online Difficulty Rating4/10
Course DatesOnline Dates-Feb 10th, 6-8pm and Feb 19th, 6-7pm Price Location Course Length Difficulty Rating
Highlights
  • Obtain your AIARE 1 and Avalanche Rescue certification in one course
  • Day 1 +2 Online, Day 3-5 in the field
  • Hands on experience in a fun and relaxed learning environment
  • Learn route finding and uphill skinning techniques you can take anywhere
  • Learn how to use your avalanche rescue gear and simulate live rescues
  • Learn from a pro! Our guides/instructors have undergone rigorous training and certification to be able to teach you
Price Includes

Includes:

  • A professionally trained and/or certified AMGA/IFMGA guide or instructor
  • Any needed avalanche rescue gear(Beacon, Probe, Shovel)
  • Professional guiding and instruction throughout the entire day
  • Resources to further your ski touring/winter mountaineering journey

Excludes:

  • Transportation. You will be responsible for your own transportation to and from a designated meeting area
  • Gratuity
  • Skis/Splitboard setup
  • Personal items such as food, clothing, backpack, etc.
  • Entrance fees and parking fees (where necessary)
Topics Covered
  • How to develop a plan for travel in avalanche terrain
  • How to identify avalanche terrain
  • How to effectively use the AIARE Risk Management Framework to make terrain choices in a group setting
  • Escape, survival techniques, and companion rescue process.
  • Techniques and skills to improve your ability use equipment properly and ski and riding in the backcountry
  • Uphill skinning and route finding
  • Navigational and terrain assessment skills when riding
  • Transitions from uphill to downhill
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