
Non-Motorized Spring Level 1
Spring is a very dynamic time in the mountains. Conditions can change quickly, increasing our exposure to avalanche hazard. Spring can also be a time of good snow stability, providing safer access to steeper and more exposed terrain. This course will improve your understanding of wet snow avalanches and build a strong terrain and snowpack assessment foundation during a transitional springtime snowpack.
The core curriculum is based on American Avalanche Association (AAA) Level 1 guidelines. Course topics include avalanche terms and characteristics, terrain recognition, snowpack/weather forecasting, trip planning, communication/decision-making, and avalanche rescue. This avalanche Level 1 course has a capacity for up to 6 students and will be taught in the backcountry of Yellowstone Park south of Big Sky, MT or the backcountry outside of Bridger Bowl. This course is orientated towards skiers and split-boarders.
The classroom portion of the course will be offered virtually and includes online talks students can watch on their own time. There is also a required worksheet associated with each pre-recorded talk. In addition to the self-paced online learning, there will be a mandatory live Zoom session held on the evening of March 28th (Friday) from 6 to 8:30 pm. The practical portion of the class consists of two full field days, March 29th and 30th (Saturday/Sunday). The field portions will include a good amount of backcountry travel, which requires each student to be proficient with their touring gear. Snowshoe and boot-pack travel are not allowed in this class.
This is a great opportunity to get your AAA Level 1 certification, sharpen your backcountry skills, develop more confidence in your partners, and become more knowledgeable and safer during spring conditions in the backcountry. Each participant will receive a Level 1 certificate of completion.
3-DAY COURSE (24 HOURS TOTAL)