What's the itinerary for a Rec 1 course?

We don’t post a detailed itinerary because our instructors adapt each course to the group and conditions.
Generally:

  • Day 1: Longer classroom session in the morning, followed by a short afternoon field tour.

  • Day 2: Shorter classroom session, then a longer field session.

  • Day 3: Primarily field-based learning.

Our curriculum focuses on learning key concepts, then putting them into practice in the field.

How are your Rec courses different from AIARE? Are you an AIARE provider?

As fellow A3-accredited avalanche education programs, our courses share many similarities with AIARE.
We’re proud to be the oldest avalanche education school, emphasizing excellence in both curriculum and instruction. Our smaller size and location in one of the most complex snowpacks in the country help us maintain quality and consistency.

We also teach unique “SASisms”—memorable decision-making tools to help students apply their learning in real situations rather than relying only on set processes.
In short, you’ll receive excellent training whichever accredited school you choose.

What skiing or boarding skill level do I need for Rec courses?

You should be comfortable skiing blue runs at the resort—even at the end of the day when it’s scraped off and you’re tired.
On course, terrain is typically less steep but may have more variable snow conditions.

If you’re new to the backcountry, we recommend becoming familiar with your gear before the course. Practice:

  • Transitioning between skinning and skiing/boarding

  • Assembling your shovel and probe

  • Understanding your beacon and bindings

We love welcoming new backcountry users and want you to feel prepared!

I've never been in the backcountry. Can I take one of your courses?

Absolutely! Many of our students are new to the backcountry.
We recommend that you:

  • Feel comfortable on intermediate terrain

  • Spend a day at a ski area or in low-risk terrain practicing with your gear

Transitions are a big part of backcountry travel, so a little pre-course practice goes a long way.

Should I take the Snowmobile or regular Rec 1?

Both courses cover the same core material—terrain assessment, risk management, and rescue skills.
Choose the one that matches your preferred mode of travel. The emphasis and field components differ based on whether you’re on skis or a sled.

I'm a splitboarder, but I can’t attend the splitboard-specific course. Can I take a regular Rec course?

Yes! Splitboarders are welcome in all Rec courses. Just be prepared for frequent transitions between skinning and riding.

Should I take the Rec 1 or Rescue course first?

You can take them in either order.

  • Rec 1 (3 days): Comprehensive introduction to snowpack, terrain management, travel skills, risk assessment, and rescue.

  • Rescue (1 day): Focused practice on rescue skills with minimal travel.

Both are prerequisites for Rec 2 and Pro-level courses. Check out our course progression flowchart for more details.

Do you accept AmeriCorps Education Awards?

Possibly! You’ll need to contact AmeriCorps directly for approval. If approved, AmeriCorps would issue payment to us on your behalf.

Can I take an avalanche course on snowshoes?

We love that snowshoers want to get avalanche education!
However, our Rec 1 and Rec 2 courses aren’t a great fit since the travel pace differs from skiers and riders.
Our Rescue courses are more flexible—students stay in one area practicing scenarios.

If you’re interested, we can:

  • Check with instructors about a specific Rescue course, or

  • Explore creating a custom snowshoe group course.