If you’re looking to get into backcountry skiing/riding, getting the proper education is just as important as getting the right gear. Sign up for an AIARE I through Aspen Expeditions and you will be taken through a standardized curriculum that covers snow and avalanche science, moving safely through backcountry terrain, and emergency rescue. Aspen Expeditions has been teaching avalanche courses since 1980 and has an intimate knowledge of the Colorado snowpack. The AIARE instructors and 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. The course cost includes AIARE manual, AIARE dues & AIARE field book. 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

Discounts on Gear and Demos:

Avalanche Course participants will receive the following discounts: 50% discount on AT demo ski equipment, $50 off a Mammut airbag, $25 off an Intro Avalanche Gear Equipment Package or $30 off a Guide Recommended Avalanche Gear Equipment Package, $25 discount on Aspen Expeditions ski camps.

Please feel free to contact us via phone at970-925-7625 or email to request more information. Custom dates available!