Avalanche Training Level I (Feb. 21-23, 2025)

The Level I curriculum is designed to give participants a thorough, practical introduction to avalanches.

The American Avalanche Association’s Recreation Level I curriculum is a 24-hour course designed to give participants a thorough, practical introduction to avalanches and the skills to recognize the conditions responsible for their occurrence. Additionally, participants will learn strategies for prudent decision-making and techniques for travel in avalanche terrain that will increase the odds of avoidance and survival. Since avalanches are complex and cannot be definitively predicted, efficient avalanche companion rescue skills will also be emphasized.

This course may be canceled due to insufficient snow or inadequate enrollment.

All students must have an avalanche transceiver, probe, and shovel. An analog or digital (phone app) inclinometer is also important.

The field portion of the course will be run by KPAC staff in the terrain surrounding Arizona Snowbowl.

There is an online meeting from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM Friday before the weekend fieldwork. Weekend field days run from approximately 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. 

The classroom components are online modules developed by The American Avalanche Institute. Students will spend five to eight hours completing the online coursework. KPAC recommends that students complete the online course before the weekend field sessions. All online modules must be completed before receiving a Level 1 certificate. The online modules have optional "deep dives" for those wanting more information.