Backcountry 101 Avalanche Class

 

Skiing and riding in the backcountry is safer and more fun when you understand avalanches, knowing when you can go big and when to dial it back. Nobody wants to be that partner that can't make informed decisions or be counted on in a rescue. Spend an evening in a classroom and a day on the snow with the pros to learn how to get out in the backcountry, have fun and come home ready to do it again.

January 25 at FS Ranger Station, January 27 Location TBD
$150.00
Theory: 

On Thursday night, a forecaster will use videos, slides, stories and class exercises to explain avalanche characteristics, snowpack fundamentals, clues to instability, terrain assessment, safe travel techniques, rescue techniques and decision-making.

Practice: 

On Saturday, we will meet and break into groups of about 6 and make travel plans based on current conditions. We will spend the  day touring the backcountry.

Requirements & Logistics: 

Skills: You need to be at least an intermediate level skier, capable of skiing uphill with skins and descending intermediate level slopes in ungroomed, challenging conditions.

Gear: You will need skis (or splitboard), boots, bindings and skins capable of uphill and downhill travel (no snowshoes or hiking). You must be familiar with your equipment and ready to use it. You will need a pack (we have some loaners).

And:

  • Food
  • Water
  • Warm clothes (we will be out in the backcountry all day in winter conditions)
  • Beacon (we have some loaners)
  • Shovel (we have some loaners)
  • Probe (we have some loaners)
  • First aid and repair kit

January 25: Please meet at 6:00pm at the Logan Ranger District Office  (1500 E. Hwy 89)

January 27: Location and time will be determined during class on Thursday.  

Recommended reading: We recommend that you read Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain (Tremper) and Snow Sense (Fredston) prior to class.

Do you have your own personal avalanche safety gear? If not, check out the Backcountry.com "Fitting Room" to purchase your own safety gear. Every purchase from the link benefits the Utah Avalanche Center. Click the link here.

Cancellation policy: Our classes generally fill up.  If you can't attend the class, please let us know by 5pm Friday afternoon the week before class for a partial refund- We will refund all but $25. If you cancel after that but more than 24 hours before the evening class, we'll refund all but $65 of your fee. After 5 pm the day before class, there will be no refund. 

Instructors: 
Instructor Name: 
Paige Pagnucco
Instructor Name: 
Josh Archibald
Instructor Name: 
Bina Skordas
The first name of the person attending the event
The last name of the person attending the event
Please check the mode of transportation you intend to use during the course.
We require all students to carry a beacon, shovel and probe which we have a limited amount to loan out. Do you need to borrow an avalanche beacon/transceiver?
Do you need to borrow a shovel?
Do you need to borrow an avalanche probe?
Is there anyone taking this class that you would like to be in a group with? List all names.
No students under 18 on field day without waiver signed by parent. No refunds without waiver. Click HERE for waiver
Click HERE to read the Liability Waiver
Venue: 
Logan Ranger District