Colorado Backcountry Safety
Are you interested in recreating outside in Colorado’s winter backcountry environments? Maybe you have a new interest in backcountry skiing and snowboarding – or perhaps you would like to visit one of those high mountain lakes or peaks in the winter? Avalanche education, awareness, and safety are critical for anyone interested in snowy mountain environments.
AIARE Level 1 Avalanche Course
The AIARE Level 1 Avalanche Course is a 3-day/24-hour introduction to avalanche risk management. By the end of this course, students will learn a process on how to plan and travel in the backcountry, identify avalanche terrain, and recognize hazards, as well as how to be a strong contributor to a group. Students will also learn how avalanche rescue equipment works in a companion rescue, as well as how things like the avalanche forecast, snowpack tests, and field observations work to help improve our decision-making and reduce our risk while enjoying the snow and solitude of winter.
AIARE Avalanche Rescue
AIARE Avalanche Rescue is a one-day stand alone course that is intended to be retaken on a regular basis in order to keep abreast of best practices in rescue techniques and gear. New participants will learn the basics of companion rescue, while returning participants will expand their skill set with advanced topics and realistic scenario practice to help improve their skills. Each participant will have the opportunity to receive professional coaching on their rescue skills, and will receive a rescue card acknowledging the completion date. AIARE Avalanche Rescue is a prerequisite for the AIARE 2 and Pro 1 courses.
Course Information
Ready to Sign Up?
- Registration Cost is based on membership type. Visit the purchase portal for pricing details. Cost includes course, transportation, and equipment rental.
Course Dates:
- AIARE Level 1 Course January 14-16, 2026
- AIARE Avalanche Rescue January 24, 2026
- AIARE Level 1 Hybrid Course March 7-8, 2026
Questions?
