The American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) Level 1 Avalanche Safety Course teaches participants how to choose appropriate terrain based on current avalanche hazards. Students develop a clear understanding of avalanche forecasts, hazard recognition, terrain selection, and effective group communication. Instruction continues with core skills in terrain analysis, safe travel techniques, and basic field-based decision-making, ensuring participants can apply what they learn in real backcountry settings. Every student leaves the course proficient in essential companion rescue skills, including efficient use of beacon, shovel, and probe to respond in the event of an avalanche.

For families who travel in the backcountry together, we also offer Custom Family AIARE Level 1 courses designed specifically for parents and teens ages 12–17. As parents ourselves, we understand the challenge of keeping middle school–aged students engaged, so these courses are intentionally structured with hands-on learning, interactive scenarios, and age-appropriate games that break up more technical topics. The result is a fun, effective learning environment that builds real skills while keeping everyone motivated and involved. Contact us to schedule a custom family course and plan your next backcountry ski adventure together.

For those looking to take their learning a step further, the AIARE Level 1 Plus (L1+) option allows you to double down on your backcountry skills by pairing the Level 1 Avalanche Course with our Intro to Touring program. Offered conveniently at Snoqualmie Pass over two weekends for $895, this expanded course helps answer the practical questions of where to go, how to get there, and how to get back safely—and still make it back in time for après. Designed for all types of backcountry travelers, including snowshoers, backcountry skiers, snowboarders, and mountaineers, the L1+ provides a well-rounded foundation for confident travel in winter terrain.

ZOOM Sessions 2025/2026 :Monday & Friday @6:30/*WOMEN’S 1st Zoom will be on Wed then on Fri, same time

• Lecture/ZOOM Sessions Topics Include: Snowpack, Avalanche Phenomenon, Terrain Analysis, Stability Evaluation, Avalanche Hazard Ratings, Human Factors And Risk Assessment, Decision Making.

Field Locations: Snoqualmie Pass 

• Snoq 2025:  December 11/29-30; 12/6-7,13-14, 20-21, 27-28

• Snoq 2026: January 3-4,10-11,17-18, 24-25; February 7-8, 14-15, 28- March 1

• WOMEN’S Dates:  December 13-14 ; January 10-11; February 7-8

  • Duration: 3 Days

  • Level: Beginner

  • Client Ratio: 6:1

  • Cost:   

    • $600