Avalanche Safety Courses
AIARE Level 1
The AIARE Level 1 course, taught by the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education, should be taken by anyone participating in winter activities in the backcountry. You'll learn decision-making based on avalanche hazard evaluation, travel and avoidance in avalanche-prone terrain, how to use transceivers, and avalanche rescue technique as part of this 24-hour course. Note: some courses involving snow travel will automatically enroll a student in AIARE I as a requirement (check details as the course curriculum may vary somewhat between branches).
TYPICALLY OFFERED
Courses are generally listed and open for registration in November, with classes beginning either in December or January. Course are available through our Tacoma, Foothills, Everett, Bellingham, and Seattle Branches.
Badges you can earn
Avalanche Awareness
Our avalanche awareness class is a shorter course, generally one weekday evening that covers the basics of avalanche mechanics, identifying snow stability, safe travel techniques, and briefly discusses beacons and best practices.
TYPICALLY OFFERED
Held in December, January, and February. The Mountaineers partners with the Northwest Avalanche Association. Taking the course with NWAC qualifies as equivalency for this seminar.
Badges you can earn
