Avalanche class

Compression test to check snowpack stability. Photo by Ruth Hartnup from Vancouver, Canada / CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Compression test to check snowpack stability. Photo by Ruth Hartnup from Vancouver, Canada / CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Avalanche courses give participants a network of skills necessary to navigate the backcountry. Participants will learn safe travel methods in avalanche terrain, how to interpret the avalanche bulletin, companion rescue protocols, and decision-making fundamentals.

Taking an AAIRE avalanche safety certification course is highly recommended for all backcountry users. These classes are popular and will often sell out, so be sure to sign up early.

See the Sierra Avalanche Center's current list of avalanche education providers to find a course that's right for you.