Curriculum

​During each block of programming, you will spend a day (or two, if you are a splitboarder) learning the fundamentals of backcountry skiing, you’ll learn how to use your gear, where and how to set a skin track, and other useful skills. Following that, you will spend either two online evenings or one full in-person day on AIARE 1 lecture material. The following three days will be spent in the field completing your AIARE 1 and AIARE Rescue course.  Our AIARE 1 course provides students with the tools, knowledge, and decision-making skills necessary to minimize your exposure to risk in avalanche terrain. Knowing how to judge avalanche conditions, where it’s more dangerous to travel versus where it is less dangerous, and being able to carry out a successful rescue if caught in an avalanche, are essential skills that everyone should be aware of and familiar with before heading into the backcountry.

At the completion of this first block, you’ll receive certificates of training for both the AIARE 1 and the AIARE Rescue Courses.

Students Will Learn:

  • Uphill travel techniques for skiers or splitboarders.

  • Choosing gear, transitions, and gear systems.

  • Introductory navigation and route planning.

  • Identifying avalanche terrain and terrain traps.

  • Using the AIARE Framework for decision-making.

  • Interpreting avalanche forecasts and field observations.

  • Companion rescue techniques and realistic practice scenarios.

  • Group travel strategies and communication in complex terrain.

Details

Prerequisites

  • Intermediate level in-bounds skiing/snowboarding abilities being able to successfully and confidently complete blue runs inbounds.
  • 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).

Ski or Splitboard Options

This course can be taken as a backcountry skier or splitboarder.  Please see the dates for options.

​Avalanche Gear

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

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