AIARE II Avalanche Course

The AIARE 2 is a three-day/24-hour course that provides backcountry travelers an opportunity to advance their decision making skills in more complicated situations such as being a leader within a small travel group, traveling in more complicated terrain, and/or developing a travel plan where online resources are scarce. The AIARE 2 builds on the introductory avalanche hazard management model introduced in the AIARE 1 and adds to it the evaluation of critical hazard assessment factors. Students will describe and discuss weather, snowpack and avalanche processes, and identify how these processes relate to observations and travel within avalanche terrain. Skis or splitboard with skins and touring bindings are required for this course. SNOWSHOES ARE NOT ALLOWED! Additionally, an avalanche beacon, shovel, and probe are required. These items are available to rent from the USU Outdoor Programs. Make sure to reserve equipment in advance as quantities are limited. Participants must be comfortable traveling in blue to black resort terrain on skis or splitboard. This course is not recommended for beginners.