Course Duration: 24 hours in-person.

Course Description: AIARE 1 is an introduction to avalanche hazard management. Students will learn how to plan and prepare for backcountry travel, make informed decisions in the field, and perform essential avalanche rescue skills, including locating and excavating a buried person.

Why Take Your AIARE 1 With PPAS? 

• Our in-person AIARE 1 courses are led by IFMGA/AMGA Ski Guides, ensuring the highest level of professional instruction. We know you’ll get more in-person vs. a zoom classroom.
• PPAS is an American Avalanche Association A3 recognized provider of the AIARE curriculum.
• We keep our courses small with 6 students to 1 instructor in the field and a maximum of 12 students with 2 instructors in the classroom setting. This creates a more personal learning environment that encourages discussion, participation, and hands-on experience.
• PPAS was founded at the base of Pikes Peak in 1989 but we guide and teach worldwide.  Join us for AIARE training, then consider traveling with us to other ski and climbing destinations.

Prerequisites:

• Skiing/Riding Skills: Students should confidently ski/ride blue and some black runs in all conditions (powder, firm, crust, etc.). Off-piste (off-groomer) and easy bump runs experience is highly recommended to prepare for variable backcountry snow and obstacles.
• Uphill Travel Experience: Students should be familiar with skinning and transitions. Skinning/touring at a ski area or with experienced partners is encouraged.
• Beginners to backcountry touring ski gear should consider our 1-day Intro to Backcoutry Skiing or Splitboarding courses first.
• Being comfortable with both uphill/downhill skills and touring gear allows you to focus on snowpack evaluation, and terrain recognition during your AIARE course.

Visit AIARE’s website here.