Stay Safe in the Backcountry: Enroll in Telluride’s Level 1 Avalanche Course
If you love exploring the backcountry, ski touring, or splitboarding in the San Juan Mountains, understanding avalanche safety is essential. Mountain Trip’s Level 1 Avalanche Course is your opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions while traveling in avalanche terrain.
This nationally recognized course offers three days of hands-on instruction in the field, classroom learning, and a comprehensive introduction to avalanche risk management. It’s the perfect foundation for backcountry skiers, snowboarders, and splitboarders looking to enhance their safety skills.
Course Details
📍 Location: Telluride, CO
📆 Date: Last Level 1 Avalanche Course of the season!
🕒 Duration: 3 Days (plus optional pre-course online module)
In this intensive, hands-on training, participants will:
- ✔️ Learn how to assess avalanche conditions using the Avalanche Triangle
- ✔️ Develop essential companion rescue skills
- ✔️ Interpret avalanche bulletins and weather forecasts
- ✔️ Gain experience in backcountry travel and decision-making
Taught by AMGA-trained or certified instructors, this course equips students with practical skills needed for safe, responsible backcountry recreation.
Who Should Take This Course?
This Level 1 Avalanche Course is ideal for experienced skiers and snowboarders who:
- 🎿 Have prior experience with ski touring or splitboarding
- ⛷ Are comfortable skiing or riding variable terrain in the backcountry
- 🗻 Want to gain the skills needed for safe backcountry adventures
Not quite ready for this level? Check out Mountain Trip’s Intro to Backcountry Skiing Course!
Course Breakdown
📖 Pre-Course (Self-Paced Online Study Module) (Optional but highly recommended!)
Day 1: Avalanche Hazard Concepts & Rescue Skills
📍 Meet at Classroom Location
- Learn about the Avalanche Triangle (Terrain, Weather, Snowpack, Human Factors)
- Introduction to avalanche rescue skills
- Hands-on practice with beacon, probe, and shovel techniques
Day 2: Backcountry Tour Planning & Field Session
📍 Meet at Classroom Location & Transition to Field Training
- Interpret avalanche forecasts & weather reports
- Use online mapping tools for trip planning
- Conduct field observations in real-world conditions
Day 3: Full-Day Backcountry Tour & Decision-Making
📍 Meet at Field Location
- Put your knowledge into action with a guided backcountry tour
- Focus on group travel, terrain selection, and risk assessment
- Course closes with final debrief and certification
What’s Included?
- ✔️ 3 days of expert instruction
- ✔️ Nationally recognized Level 1 Avalanche certification
- ✔️ 1-year membership to Friends of CAIC (Colorado Avalanche Information Center)
- ✔️ Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search & Rescue (CORSAR) card
Gear Rentals Available
🏔 Beacon, shovel, probe (with backpack upon request): $50
🎿 Full ski touring kit (skis, boots, skins, poles): $200
Participants are encouraged to bring their own gear whenever possible.
Scholarships & Financial Assistance
We understand that avalanche education can be a significant investment. The PI Avalanche Fund offers scholarships to help mountain town residents and outdoor enthusiasts further their education in honor of Peter Inglis, a former guide and avalanche educator.
🔗 Learn more & apply here: PI Avalanche Fund
Reserve Your Spot Today!
Spaces are limited for this final Level 1 Avalanche Course of the season—don’t miss your chance to gain critical backcountry safety skills.
🔗 Register now: Mountain Trip Registration
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