Steamboat Powdercats offers AIARE (The American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education) Level I avalanche courses typically in early December and January.

The AIARE Level 1 avalanche course is designed as an introductory “stand-alone decision-makers course” for those planning on traveling and recreating in avalanche terrain. Our instructors are AIARE trained and qualified. The 24 hours of course work focuses on the basic skills necessary to manage your risk in the winter backcountry. These courses are 3-days long with the first day spent in the office and field, then the second and third day are fully spent in the field.

To be successful in this course, participants need to be comfortable in powder on Blue/Black runs at any ski area, and have a decent level of fitness as we will be hiking uphill with our skis and splitboards.

This Level 1 course utilizes the AIARE course curriculum. At the end of the course you will be able to:

• Plan and prepare for travel in avalanche terrain
• Recognize avalanche terrain
• Describe a basic framework for making decisions in avalanche terrain
• Learn and apply effective companion rescue