Avalanche Level 1

Format

• Two Evening In-Person Classroom Sessions
• Two Full-Day Field Components

Learning Ratios

• Classroom-Based Learning: 40%
• Field-Based On-Snow Learning: 60%
• Student-to-Instructor Ratio: 4:1
• Maximum Class Size: 8 participants

Dates | Locations | Times

Classroom Sessions
Tuesday, February 17 & Thursday, February 19, 2026
Missoula, MT | 6–9 PM MT

Field Sessions
Saturday, February 21 & Sunday, February 22, 2026
Rattlesnake Wilderness Backcountry | 8 AM–5 PM MT

Overview

The Avalanche Level 1 course is designed for current and aspiring backcountry travelers ready to build a strong foundation in avalanche safety and mountain travel. Aligned with American Avalanche Association (A3) guidelines, this course introduces structured methods for gathering, analyzing, and prioritizing information to support informed decision-making in avalanche terrain.

Led by A3-certified professional educators, the course blends classroom instruction with immersive on-snow field sessions. With 60% of learning time spent in the field and a low 4:1 student-to-instructor ratio, participants gain a personalized, hands-on experience grounded in real-world travel and rescue practice.

Learning Objectives

Participants will learn to:

• Understand and apply key avalanche terminology and safety principles
• Identify avalanche terrain and implement safe travel techniques
• Read and interpret avalanche forecasts and public advisories
• Recognize how weather and snowpack conditions interact
• Plan and prepare for backcountry tours
• Operate avalanche rescue equipment (beacons, shovels, and probes)
• Perform efficient and effective companion rescues
• Conduct field observations and basic snow stability tests
• Use communication and teamwork to reduce human factor risks

Course Includes

• Instruction from A3-certified professional educators
• Printed course workbook and study materials
• In-person classroom sessions and guided backcountry field instruction
• Lift tickets (if applicable for ski area courses)

Participants Provide

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

Registration

Sign up today and gain the skills, confidence, and training to travel safely and responsibly in avalanche terrain.