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Re-establish your avalanche education through a personalized course

Why Take AIARE Courses with Us

  • Smaller class sizes

  • Highest-caliber instructors with supplemental certifications and experience managing avalanche terrain, i.e. Ski Patrol

  • Curriculum that prioritizes experiential learning by skiing laps on tour days and scouting out powder. No snowshoeing.

  • Excellent access to terrain and trailheads just 15 minutes from the classroom

  • Added resource of the local avalanche center

Course Description

The Avalanche Refresher Course is designed specifically for each group to improve their backcountry skills. Refining individual skills is an important part of being a reliable backcountry partner. 

All material presented in this course will be consistent with the American Institute of Avalanche Research & Education (AIARE) curriculum, but there is not a set itinerary. The course varies from session to session and depends largely on the particular goals and needs of each participant. Your instructor will design every session around each student’s current skill set and individual goals. The ideal student has taken a Level 1 or Level 2 course in the past, is those looking to brush up on their current avalanche safety knowledge or is wanting to get up to date with the latest industry practices and techniques. 

Course Objectives 

Objectives will vary depending on each group: 

  • Recent changes to L1/L2 content
  • Metamorphism & snow crystal review 
  • Basic pit and field book review
  • Route selection 
  • Stability assessment 
  • Travel protocols 
  • Practice rescue scenarios

Inclusions

  • Professional and knowledgeable guide

Photographer Add-on

Let us capture your memories so you can focus on your adventure! A photographer is $675 per trip and based on availability. Please let the Irwin Guide’s office know 48hrs before your trip if you would like to add this to your reservation.

Dates

There are no pre-set dates. You can choose any dates between December and March.

Things to Know

$500¹

1-2 People

$200

Each Additional Person

6:1

Guest to Guide Ratio²

¹Avalanche safety gear and backcountry touring set-ups can be rented for an additional fee

²Max 6 students and 1 instructor

Tour Details

Requirements Certifications Prerequisites2

Requirements

Participants should have previous experience in backcountry skiing/riding and avalanche education.

Customized2

Customized

Crested Butte is known for its wide variety of terrain options – this course will be tailored to the group’s needs.

Requirements Certifications Prerequisites2

Certifications

Our course is certified by the American Institute of Avalanche Research & Education (AIARE) and our guides are trained by the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA).

Update your avalanche knowledge with your backcountry partners

Click Book Now to get started planning your adventure