Avalanche Rescue

Format:

• One Evening Online Introduction and Q&A Session
• One Full-Day Field Component

Ratios:

• Field-Based On-Snow Learning: 100%
• Student-to-Instructor Field Ratio: 4:1 for personalized instruction.
• Maximum Class Size: 12 participants.

Dates | Locations | Times:

• Wednesday, 3/5/2025: Online Session | 6–7 PM MT
• Saturday, 3/8/2025: Lolo Pass Backcountry | 8 AM–5 PM MT

Course Description

The Avalanche Rescue Course is a one-day, stand-alone course designed to keep backcountry travelers up to date with the latest best practices in avalanche rescue. This course is intended to be retaken regularly to maintain proficiency in rescue techniques and familiarize participants with new advancements in gear and protocols.

New participants will learn the fundamentals of companion rescue, while returning participants will refine their skills through advanced scenarios and hands-on coaching. Each student will receive personalized feedback from professional instructors and an American Avalance Association (A3) Rescue Course certification acknowledging the completion date.

The Avalanche Rescue Course is a prerequisite for both the Avalanche Level 2 and Pro 1 courses. It is strongly recommended that all backcountry travelers refresh their skills by taking this course at least every two years.

Who Should Take This Course?

This course is ideal for both new and experienced backcountry travelers, as well as aspiring avalanche professionals. Whether you’re learning the basics for the first time or looking to enhance your proficiency through realistic rescue scenarios and professional coaching, this course will help you build confidence and competence in avalanche rescue techniques.

Student Learning Outcomes

By the end of the Avalanche Rescue Course, participants will be able to:

Describe what to do if they or a group member is caught in an avalanche.
Identify and use essential avalanche rescue gear effectively.
Set up and run realistic avalanche rescue scenarios for practice.
Improve rescue response times through structured feedback from instructors and peers.
Develop a plan for ongoing practice to keep rescue skills sharp.

All students will receive one-on-one coaching from professional instructors and timed practice in a realistic rescue scenario.

Returning students who have previously taken an Avalanche Level 1 or Avalanche Rescue Course will benefit from:

• Advanced scenario practice with the guidance of experienced professionals.
• Hands-on coaching to refine skills and response strategies.
• The latest best practices in avalanche rescue techniques.
• Opportunities to practice complex rescue situations beyond the basic fundamentals.

Registration

Register Now to secure your spot in this essential one-day avalanche rescue course.

For questions or assistance with registration, contact us at education@missoulaavalanche.org.

Keep your rescue skills sharp—be prepared to save a life in the backcountry!