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1st Departure:
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Unknown
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Destination:
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North America and Caribbean > USA > Colorado > Southwest Colorado
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Duration:
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3 days
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Skill Level:
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No Experience Necessary
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Challenge:
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The San Juan Mountains offer varied and complex terrain, consistent snowfall, and easy access for avalanche education. Utilizing picture-perfect ski terrain from gladed trees to open bowls, we teach skills such as terrain assessment, transceiver use, and snowpack analysis for safe travel and skiing in any backcountry location. The AIARE curriculum is the finest format for teaching avalanche assessment and will prepare you for making good decisions in any winter backcountry environment. The winter backcountry travel enthusiast is often at risk from potential avalanche hazard. The best protection from that risk is a thorough understanding of the hazard and the ability to assess the snowpack and surrounding terrain features. Our instructors are some of the most knowledgeable and experienced avalanche forecasters and snow science experts in the business. Techniques and skills covered include: Route-finding and terrain recognition Snowpack analysis - ruschblock test, shovel tap test, identifying weak layers, and other snow science analysis methods Weather considerations - snowfall rate, wind, sun, etc... Essential equipment Winter survival skills Backcountry travel protocols Avalanche beacons Rescuing the victim Snow science theory and methodology The San Juan Mountains offer varied and complex terrain, consistent snowfall, and easy access for avalanche education. Utilizing picture-perfect ski terrain from gladed trees to open bowls, we teach skills such as terrain assessment, transceiver use, and snowpack analysis for safe travel and skiing in any backcountry location. Both programs earn the participant an American Avalanche Association Level I ot Level II certificate of completion. This course will be based out of Ouray. The Level 1 Course provides a complete introduction to the avalanche phenomenon, avalanche terrain, decision making, and rescue. This is an ideal first course for those new to travel in avalanche terrain and a great review or upgrade for anyone who has some experience or prior training but feels they need a skills "tune-up." The Level 1 is designed as a stand-alone course for back-country travellers; it also serves and an introduction to avalanches and is a lead in to the AIARE Level 2 Course for those who wish to progress. Participants on a Level 1 Course can expect a minimum of about six hours of classroom instruction and about 10 to 12 hours of field instruction in the following subjects: . Types of avalanches . Characteristics of avalanches . An introduction to how avalanches form and release . Avalanche terrain . Trip planning and preparation . Travel techniques . Decision making . Avalanche rescue Prerequisites Students must have the ability to travel in avalanche terrain. There are no other prerequisites.