Avalanche Safety Training with The Backcountry Pros in Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
Two 8-hour field days plus online and Zoom sessions
Fitness Level
Participants should have good aerobic endurance suitable for backcountry skiing or hiking in snow.
Overview
Learn vital avalanche safety skills with The Backcountry Pros in Utah’s Wasatch Range. This immersive course blends expert-led field days and online study designed for backcountry skiers ready to travel safely off-piste.
Adventure Tips
Prioritize pre-course online study
Complete the robust online module before field days to maximize hands-on learning efficiency.
Dress in moisture-wicking layers
Prepare for variable mountain weather by layering fabrics that manage sweat and insulation.
Practice beacon searches diligently
Become proficient with avalanche transceiver use during field exercises—it’s crucial for rescue readiness.
Respect the 4:1 student-to-instructor ratio
Smaller groups mean personalized instruction and increased safety in dynamic terrain.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mountain goats thriving on rocky outcrops.
- Snowshoe hare adapted to shifting winter conditions.
History
The Wasatch Range has long been a playground for winter sports, with avalanche safety gaining emphasis following severe avalanche incidents in the mid-20th century.
Conservation
Local guides emphasize Leave No Trace ethics and work with avalanche safety organizations to protect fragile alpine ecosystems during winter activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Avalanche transceiver
Crucial for practicing beacon searches and essential for any backcountry travel.
winter specific
Snow shovel
Required for snow pit assessments and rescue drills.
winter specific
Probe
Helps locate buried victims during avalanche rescue simulations.
winter specific
Appropriate backcountry layers
Weatherproof clothing that balances warmth, breathability, and mobility is key.
winter specific