Human-Powered Intro to Avalanches

Come get your hands in the snow! Gain familiarity with essential concepts and practices for safe winter travel.

• Three-hour classroom session on March 8 at FVCC campus
• Optional: Tune into virtual education event Fireside Chats/State of the Snowpack on March 9
• Eight-hour field day on March 11 at Whitefish Mountain Resort

Tuition $85

REGISTER HERE

This class for skiers and snowboarders aims to help students recognize and understand obvious avalanche hazards through both a classroom and a field session. A brief introduction to avalanche statistics and human factors, terminology, terrain, snowpack and weather factors, trip planning and preparation, simple decision making tools and backcountry travel protocols will be covered. In the field session, you will gain an understanding of how a layered snowpack contributes to avalanches. Companion rescue techniques will also be covered, including the use of avalanche transceivers, shovels, and probes.

Required gear: Must have a fully operational modern avalanche transceiver, an avalanche shovel (no plastic blades), and an avalanche probe. Also required are downhill (or backcountry) skis or snowboard with appropriate bindings. You do not need climbing skins.

Transportation is on your own. Dress appropriately for all weather conditions. Provide your own lunch. Required gear: Must have a fully operational modern avalanche transceiver (457kHz), an avalanche shovel (no plastic blades) and an avalanche probe. Also required are downhill (or backcountry) skis or snowboard with appropriate bindings. You do not need climbing skins.

Made possible by our diamond sponsors: Black Diamond Mortgage Corporation, Dream Marine, Fresh Life Church, Two Bear Air Rescue, and Whitefish Mountain Resort.