Did you take an avalanche course years ago and need some refreshing? Have you taken an AIARE or A3 (American Avalanche Association) avalanche course recently and want help applying all of the information to actually getting out and making decisions in the backcountry? Dial in your decision-making framework, snowpack assessment skills, terrain management, group dynamics, avalanche rescue skills, and more!

Round up a few of your regular backcountry touring partners and book a day with a guide/instructor for private learning and touring. The day can be tailored to the skills you want to spend the most time on, from trip planning to route selection, field observations to snowpack analysis, or simply learning how to execute a ski tour from beginning to end and finding the best conditions.

Custom Tailored Learning:

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The 1-day Avalanche Refresher course is run as a private outing so we are able to customize and tailor the day to you and your group. Topics that can be covered may include:

• Daily framework and decision making process review
• Understanding and interpreting avalanche forecast bulletins
• Snow metamorphism review
• Avalanche characteristics and mechanics
• Field observations and snowpack analysis
• Route planning, selection, and travel techniques
• Recognizing and managing avalanche terrain
• Human factors and decision-making
• Group management and communication
• Rescue scenarios and transceiver practice

Trip Package Includes

• AIARE Certified Course Leader and Instructor(s) (6:1 maximum guide to student ratio)
• Transportation from designated meeting place to the Trailhead

Trip Package Does Not Include

• Avalanche Safety Gear - beacon, shovel, probe, pack (rent at CAG if needed)
• Clothing, gear, goggles, helmet
• Backcountry skis, splitboards with skins, or snowshoes (rent at CAG if needed)
• Lunch, snacks, water
• Transportation to designated meeting place
• Insurance (trip or rescue)
• Instructor gratuity

Area Info

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Summit County Area, Colorado

Summit County is the heart of our operation with access to thousands of acres of ridgelines, slopes, and valleys. Summit County's high altitude makes for great snow conditions all season long and provides a wide variety of backcountry accessibility for all levels of backcountry skiers. We always plan to use a variety of zones to ensure our clients experience the best snow conditions available for the planned course days. With over 3,500 permitted acres in the Dillon and surrounding Ranger Districts, we always have the terrain and conditions needed to meet the learning objectives of the courses we offer.

About Your Guides

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Colorado Adventure Guides and Colorado Rafting Company, based in Silverthorne, CO, deliver four seasons of outdoor adventure and education. With operations in seven USFS and BLM ranger districts, we serve a dynamic and growing population of outdoor enthusiasts spanning Summit and Eagle Counties to the Denver Front Range. Our all-season, guided operations include:

• Rock Climbing
• Mountaineering
• Hiking/Peak Accents
• Mountain Biking
• Whitewater Rafting/SUPing
• Backcountry Skiing
• Backcountry Splitboarding
• Snowshoeing
• Ice Climbing
• AIARE Snow Safety

We have been providing incredible experiences to visitors of Summit County and surrounding areas for over 20 years. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned expert, let us take you on your next unforgettable outdoor adventure!

FAQ’s

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Prerequisites - What level should I be at to benefit from this course?

The avalanche refresher course is meant for individuals or groups who have already taken an AIARE or A3 (American Avalanche Association) avalanche course. These courses are run as private outings and are available for booking all throughout the snowy season. For those who need gear, we have a full fleet of rental and demo backcountry a/t setups, splitboards, and avalanche equipment for an additional cost.

How Physically Fit Do I Need To Be To Take This Course?

Colorado Adventure Guides’ priority is keeping our patrons and students safe. Our instructors are trained to recognize potentially hazardous situations in the backcountry; they plan and operate accordingly. Prior to the start of any course or backcountry trip you will complete a brief health history. The failure to disclose pertinent information on the health history form could result in serious harm, even death, to the signing participant, other guests and/or the guide. All information submitted is completely confidential; it is for the guide’s use and would only be shared in the event of an emergency with medical and/or rescue personnel directly caring for the guest. This can be a physically demanding course, and your ability to enjoy the adventure depends on your health and fitness, thus it’s recommended that you are in good physical condition.

Do I Need To Be A Good Skier/Snowboarder To Take This Course?

This course can be taken on alpine touring skis or a splitboard. Iit is highly recommended that participants with touring gear have experience on their setup prior to taking this course and be comfortable in steep blue to black terrain at a ski resort.

Should I Tip My Course Instructor?

Your instructors work hard before, during, and after your course to provide you with the best safety education and a great experience, and while not expected, gratuities are always highly appreciated. If you had a safe, educational, and fun experience, gratuities typically range from 15-20%.