Do I need prior avalanche training before taking this refresher?

This course is designed as a refresher, so some prior avalanche knowledge or experience is recommended for participants.

Is skiing or snowboarding ability required?

Basic proficiency is helpful, as the course involves some touring on snow-covered terrain with professional guidance.

What happens if weather conditions are poor on the course day?

The Backcountry Pros LLC monitors weather closely; the course may be rescheduled if conditions are unsafe.

Will I receive certification upon completion?

This refresher focuses on skills enhancement rather than certification, but it strongly supports maintaining safe practices.

Is equipment provided or do I need to bring my own?

Participants are expected to bring their own avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel for hands-on training.

Can I book this course for multiple people or groups?

Yes, The Backcountry Pros LLC offers private group bookings; contact them directly for group rates and scheduling.

Avalanche I Refresher Course in Cottonwood Heights, Utah | Guided Tour | Ski

Prepare yourself for a safe backcountry season with the Avalanche I Refresher course offered by The Backcountry Pros LLC in Cottonwood Heights, Utah. This one-day, immersive experience is designed to enhance your avalanche awareness and improve critical skills before you head into the mountains. The course expertly blends classroom review, practical fieldwork, and guided touring with professional ski instructors, ensuring hands-on learning in real-world settings. Participants will revisit essential avalanche safety techniques including companion rescue, terrain assessment, and decision-making strategies to help navigate avalanche-prone areas confidently. Whether you’re a seasoned backcountry traveler or seeking a valuable skills tune-up, this refresher emphasizes practical application and real-time problem solving, making sure your knowledge is sharp and current. Located just minutes from Salt Lake City, Cottonwood Heights offers ideal terrain to practice and apply these life-saving skills. This course is perfect for those committed to responsible outdoor adventures and wanting expert guidance to build confidence and safety awareness before the winter season truly begins.

About The Backcountry Pros LLC

The Backcountry Pros LLC is a Utah-based guiding and education company specializing in backcountry skiing, avalanche education, and technical climbing instruction. The team offers a range of hands-on experiences — from single-day clinics to multi-day mentorships and heli-assisted ski touring — focused on practical skills, decision-making, and safe mountain travel. Instructional offerings include Advanced Backcountry Skiing Mentorship, Backcountry Skiing Mentorship, Ski Mountaineering Course, Level I (Uinta Mountains), Avalanche I Refresher, Heli Assisted Ski Touring, Intro to Trad Climbing, Multi Pitch Self Rescue, Advanced Ice Techniques, and Ice Intro Clinic.

Courses combine classroom and fieldwork when appropriate, with Zoom sessions, guided field days, basecamp-style mentorship, and real-world scenario practice. The Backcountry Pros LLC emphasizes small groups and a limited instructor-to-student ratio to maximize individualized feedback and hands-on coaching. Professional ski instructors and certified guides lead technical lessons in the Wasatch and Uinta Mountains, covering avalanche forecasting, companion rescue, ski travel techniques, ice screw placement, anchor building, and multi-pitch self-rescue.

Safety and evidence-based decision making are core priorities; students practice terrain assessment, hazard interpretation, and rescue drills in real mountain settings. The company’s programs are designed for progressing skiers and climbers seeking measurable skill development, confidence in complex terrain, and the ability to plan and execute safe backcountry trips. Booking information, prerequisite details, and course logistics are provided for each trip to ensure participants arrive prepared for a productive and secure learning experience. Industry-standard safety protocols and hands-on mentorship create measurable progress and lasting skills for responsible mountain travel across winter and alpine environments.