Avalanche Education

AIARE 1 course

The AIARE 1 course is a three-day / 24-hour introduction to avalanche hazard management. Students can expect to develop a good grounding in how to prepare for and carry out a backcountry trip, to understand basic decision making while in the field, and to learn rescue techniques required to find and dig up a buried person (if an avalanche occurs and someone in the party is caught).

The AIARE 1 is for anyone who wants to recreate in or near avalanche terrain. Participants may have attended some awareness classes or workshops or completed the Avalanche Rescue course, but none are a prerequisite for this course. Aspiring professionals will need to take the AIARE 1 and Avalanche Rescue as a prerequisite for the Pro 1 course.

All of our AIARE courses are personally lead by IFMGA Mountain Guide, Keith Moon. Keith's vast personal and professional experience allow him the ability to deliver this curriculum in a truly meaningful way. He will do his best to set you on path to success in the mountains.

Featured Programs:

Check out some of our most popular ski Courses. Ski equipment is provided for all backcountry ski programs. This includes touring boots, skis, poles, beacon, probe and shovel. You are more than welcome to use your own equipment.

Image of Maddie Raphael, Youth Program Coordinator

Private Experiences

Private reservations are great for those who wish to have more personalized instruction or if you have specific goals in mind.

We recommend booking privately if you have previous backcountry skiing experience, wish to travel at your own pace or you are looking for more technical instruction beyond an introductory lesson.

Frequent Questions About Backcountry Skiing

What is the difference between a private climbing day and joining a group class?

Private classes are custom tailored to the individual and are available any day of the week. Private reservations do not have to reach a minimum enrollment to run and are guaranteed to run barring rain and bad weather. Private reservations are great for those who wish to have more personalized instruction, who have a narrow window of availability or just want a guide to themselves without being matched with other skiers in a group. Joining a pre-scheduled group class: If you have a flexible schedule and don’t mind being matched with other skiers, then joining a pre-scheduled class is a great cost-savings option. Group classes require a minimum number of participants to run and may be cancelled by us if there is low enrollment. Joining a group class is a very popular option for new skiers . Class dates and prices can be found online, and reservations can be made online or by phone.
What ski equipment do you provide?

The EMS Climbing School will provide all participants with ski equipment. This includes touring boots, skis, poles, beacon, probe and shovel. You are more than welcome to use your own equipment. There is no discount if you provide your own ski equipment. Please see gear list for items you will be responsible for bringing.
What do I need to bring?

A complete gear list is available online. Please read through the gear list before you arrive for items you will be responsible for bringing. In general you should be dressed appropriately for the weather, pack a lunch & water, have a backpack.
Can I request a specific guide?

Yes. If you would like to climb with a specific guide please let us know when making your reservation. We will do our best to match you with them.
What if something comes up last minute and I need to cancel? Do I get a refund?

If you need to cancel please do so within the specific time frame allowed for your lesson (the specifics will be in your confirmation). No refunds will be given for last-minute reservation changes or cancellations. Please mark the reservation date on your calendar and purchase travel insurance if you are coming from afar.
Can I tip my guide?

Tipping is never expected, but always appreciated. If you enjoyed your climbing day and would like to thank your guide, please feel free to do so.