Avalanche Level 2 + Avalanche Rescue

Format

• Curriculum: Avalanche Level 2 and Avalanche Rescue | 32 hours of instruction
• Sections: Two (2) evening classroom sessions + Three (3) full-day field components

Learning Ratios:

• Classroom-Based Learning: 20%
• Field-Based On-Snow Learning: 80%
• Student-to-Instructor Ratio: 4:1
• Maximum Class Size: 8 participants

Dates | Locations | Times

Classroom Sessions
Monday, January 26 & Wednesday, January 28, 2025
Missoula, Montana | 6–9 PM MT

Field Sessions
Friday, January 30 – Sunday, February 1, 2025
Rattlesnake Wilderness Backcountry | 8 AM–5 PM MT

Overview

The Avalanche Level 2 + Avalanche Rescue course builds advanced snow and avalanche expertise through integrated instruction led by American Avalanche Association (A3) Pro Educators. Following A3 curriculum guidelines, this combined program provides comprehensive training that deepens understanding of snow metamorphism, avalanche formation, rescue proficiency, and decision-making in complex terrain.

Designed for experienced backcountry recreationists who have completed Avalanche Level 1 and have applied those skills in winter mountain environments, this course provides a platform to expand technical knowledge, forecasting ability, and group leadership in avalanche terrain.

The course structure includes 20% classroom-based learning and 80% guided field instruction, emphasizing practical skill application, effective communication, and advanced group management techniques.

Learning Objectives

Participants will gain advanced proficiency in:

• Tracking and analyzing seasonal snowpack history
• Identifying and characterizing avalanche problems
• Assessing weather history and its influence on snow stability
• Understanding the formation of persistent weak layers (facets, depth hoar, surface hoar)
• Applying principles of snow metamorphism
• Evaluating avalanche terrain across large and small scales
• Managing groups in challenging and complex terrain
• Conducting stability tests (strength, structure, propagation potential)
• Introducing and utilizing SWAG documentation standards
• Making targeted field observations and developing tour plans
• Performing advanced rescue techniques
• Applying field-based protocols for sorting and prioritizing data
• Recognizing human factor traps and implementing effective solutions

Course Includes

• Professional instruction from A3-certified educators
• Course workbook and study materials
• In-person classroom sessions and guided backcountry field instruction
• Lift tickets (if applicable for ski area operations)

Participants Provide

• Transportation to and from field locations
• Personal backcountry touring gear
• Avalanche rescue equipment (beacon, shovel, probe)
• Food and water for all course days

Prerequisites

• Completion of Avalanche Level 1
• A minimum of one (1) winter season applying Level 1 skills in the backcountry
• Preparedness and fitness to travel on touring skis or splitboards for three consecutive days in winter backcountry conditions

This course includes the Avalanche Rescue curriculum and therefore does not require a separate Avalanche Rescue course as a prerequisite.

Recommended Reading

• Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain — Bruce Tremper
• Snow, Weather, and Avalanches: Observational Guidelines for Avalanche Programs in the United States (SWAG)

Registration

Advance registration is required — space is limited to 8 participants.