Curriculum

AIARE Rescue is designed for both new and experienced backcountry travelers and provides the opportunity to develop efficient response techniques in the event of an avalanche. Participants will run through timed scenarios, receive feedback from instructors, and leave with a solid foundation in both individual and group rescue strategies.

Students Will Learn:

  • Avalanche transceiver use and signal search techniques
  • Fine search, pinpointing, and strategic probing
  • Efficient shoveling methods and excavation strategies
  • Organizing and leading a companion rescue
  • Rescue scenario practice with instructor feedback
  • Using rescue gear effectively under stress
  • Considerations for multiple burials and complex rescues
  • What to carry in your rescue kit
  • How to maintain rescue skills over time

Details

This course can be completed on skis, splitboard, or snowshoes.

Prerequisites:

  • Prior backcountry travel experience on skis, snowshoes, or splitboard.
  • AIARE Rec 1 Course or equivalent experience is not required but highly recommended.
  • Have good physical fitness, including being able to hike for multiple hours with a 20 – 35lb backpack with minimal breaks.
  • Be able to dress appropriately for being outside in snowy, winter conditions, and be outside for a full day.
  • Be able to maintain your personal nutrition and hydration needs throughout the day (you may not have an official break for lunch – these are often done “on the go” – so you need to be able to manage your personal needs in this regard).

​Avalanche Gear

The AAI Equipment Shop rents avalanche gear, including beacons, probes, and shovels.  They also have backcountry skis and boots, snowshoes, and splitboards for rent.  We also carry packs and ski poles for rent.  See AAI rental pricing sheet.

Course Options

Winter Backcountry Skills Part 1

We offer a combo course of our Intro to Backcountry Skiing or Splitboarding Course, AIARE Avalanche Level 1, and AIARE Rescue.  It’s the most well-rounded and cost-effective way to build the skills you need to confidently venture into the backcountry.  To view the available dates, please visit the webpage.