South Lake AIARE 1

Avalanche course Online classroom learning Field days Entry-level Ski/snowboard touring Backcountry experience Avalanche education COVID-19 mitigation Hybrid learning AIARE 1 course In-person course Learning outcomes Interactive classwork Mountain guiding Innovative techniques Outdoor learning Skier/rider qualification Off-piste terrain Avalanche risk mitigation Alpenglow Expeditions, Olympic Valley California, Tahoe, Lake Tahoe, Backcountry skiing tahoe, rock climbing tahoe, AIARE tahoe, Lake Tahoe adventures, Lake Tahoe Activities, Palisades Tahoe, Tahoe Via Ferrata

South Lake AIARE 1 Avalanche Course

$595 Midweek

Per Person

$685Weekends

Per Person

Introductory 2 Days in Person + Online coursework South Lake Tahoe, CA

This course will include online classroom learning and two full days in the field! Please read the overview and itinerary for details. This is a comprehensive, entry-level avalanche course designed for those with basic ski/snowboard touring experience. There are no other prerequisites, although, if you have less than 5 days of backcountry experience, you need to join our Backcountry 1.0 course first. Please see the preparation section before reserving for more information if you are not sure if you qualify. We also offer this course in North Lake Tahoe.

Dec 2-3, 2023

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AIARE 1 Intro

Course Overview

During the 2020/2021 season, it only made sense to alter our avalanche education program to help mitigate the risks of spreading COVID-19 in an effort to better protect our guests, our staff and our community while continuing to provide what we love; an unparalleled learning experience in the mountains. The hybrid online + field days itinerary worked well, and we have decided to keep it as an option for our AIARE 1 courses moving forward.

By removing the 8+ hours of in-person classroom learning and replacing it with online learning, we’re able to provide an itinerary that works well for a busy person, or those that have concerns about being in a small space with a group of people. We also offer a 3-day in-person course for those looking to spend more time learning alongside an instructor.

We’ve invested in creating our very own AIARE online format with videos, quizzes, and interactive classwork with the intention of maintaining the same learning outcomes while completely eliminating the need to spend extended periods of time in a confined classroom. Not only does our new hybrid AIARE course offer customized coursework with better, more in-depth content but you’ll still get two full days in the field with your instructors. We’re excited to unveil this new format as we lead the way in innovative mountain guiding techniques designed to step into the 21st century while spending as much time outside as possible.

You must be an advanced intermediate skier/rider for this course and be comfortable on both on and off-piste terrain in a variety of conditions.

THE ALPENGLOW DIFFERENCE

With countless expeditions to high-altitude peaks around the world over the last 15 years, we bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to our beloved home mountain. Our teaching and guiding philosophy has been honed from the flanks of the Himalayan giants to the technical peaks of Peru, and we are beyond excited to be able to bring our program to this fantastic mountain. In addition to our international expedition roots, we are accredited by the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA), being one of the very few guide services in the region to hold such a high standard. Each of our guides is trained by the AMGA in the terrain in which they operate, and the program is supervised by internationally licensed IFMGA mountain guides. This high standard, along with our many years of experience, translates to a fantastic mountain adventure!

Alpenglow Expeditions operates under special use permit with the Tahoe, Eldorado, Inyo, Humboldt-Toiyable and Shasta-Trinity National Forests. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE

Skiers and riders joining this course must be advanced intermediate skiers/riders who have taken our Backcountry 1.0 course or have had 5-10 days in the backcountry. Skiers and riders must be competent on both on and off-piste terrain in a variety of conditions. This is comparable to skiing confidently on all blue runs and most black runs in the resort (including ungroomed terrain).

Skiers or riders 12-16 years old can join us with a parent. 16 years old and over are able to join without accompaniment.

COURSE EXPECTATIONS

Students can expect to develop a good foundation on how to prepare for and carry out a backcountry trip, to understand basic decision making while in the field, and to learn avalanche rescue techniques.

This is a comprehensive, entry-level avalanche course designed for those with basic ski/snowboard touring experience. There are no other prerequisites. The price includes the AIARE field book.

LOCATION

This course will take place in the area surrounding South Lake Tahoe, within the Carson Ranger District of the Humbodlt-Toiyabe National Forest. Your guide will pick the location with the best conditions for the day. Alpenglow operates in partnership with the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Classroom sessions will be held completely online.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of the AIARE 1 course, the student should be able to:

Develop a plan for travel in avalanche terrain.
Demonstrate the ability to identify avalanche terrain.
Effectively use the AIARE Risk Management Framework to make terrain choices in a group setting.
Demonstrate effective companion rescue.

INSTRUCTIONAL SESSIONS (24 HOURS INCLUDING BOTH DIGITAL AND FIELD INSTRUCTION)

Introduction to the Avalanche Phenomena

Types and characteristics of avalanches
Avalanche motion
Size classification
The mountain snowpack: An introduction to metamorphism and layering
Observations and Information Gathering

Field observation techniques

Snowpack tests: Rutschblock, compression test, extended column test
Avalanche danger factors or “Red Flags”
Observation checklist
Avalanche danger scale
Trip Planning and Preparation

Avalanche terrain recognition, assessment, and selection

Route finding and travel techniques
Decision making and human factors
Companion rescue and equipment

Preparation

Prerequisites

Backcountry 1.0 course, or 5-10 days of touring experience.

Technical

Must be an advanced intermediate skier/rider that is competent on and off-piste in a variety of conditions. This is comparable to confidence on all blue and most black diamond runs at the resort (including ungroomed terrain). Here is an example.

Fitness

Excellent physical fitness is required. Skiers must be able to hike for many hours at a time while carrying a pack.

Digital Learning: Self Paced & Live Meeting

The digital component of the new AIARE 1 course will comprise both a self paced version and a live online meeting with your instructor and other students in your class.
Field Day 1: Skills & Technique

A meet and greet with your group of 6 students and single instructor will be completed outdoors, likely at a trailhead. The day will consist of an easy tour with stops throughout the day to work on terrain recognition and rescue skills.
Field Day 2: Skills & Techniques

The final day of the course builds on the prior day, culminating in a full planning session and execution of a backcountry tour.

Our Guides

Meet Your Guides

FAQ’s

The answers to our most commonly asked questions.

: Yes! A large portion of our business is designed around custom adventures. Booking a private day gives you the freedom to tailor the day around your goals, pace, and group size.
: Yes, you should bring a sack lunch and water bottle for this course.
: The amount of hiking during the day varies somewhat on the zone and motivation of the group. The shortest day you can expect contains about 2 hours of skinning, and the longer days may have upwards of 4 hours of skinning.
: Yes! We rent beacons, probes, and shovels for a small daily fee.
: We have an excellent selection of backcountry ski gear available to rent. We offer top of the line equipment from Black Diamond Skis, Tecnica Boots, and Jones Snowboards. Many of our guides use the same gear available in our demo fleet. If you have any gear or sizing questions, we would be more than happy to get you situated to ensure you get the most out of your day in the mountains.

Splitboards

We have Jones Splitboards available to rent in sizes 145cm, 152cm, 160cm, 161cm, 162cm, and 164cm) Please let us know your stance/binding angle preferences if you are planning to rent a splitboard setup.

A/T Ski Boots

Alpine touring ski boots from Technica Boots are available to rent. Sizes range from 23.5 to 29.5 in both genders.

Avalanche Equipment

Avalanche gear is mandatory for all peoples traveling in alpine terrain. If you do not already own gear, we rent an avalanche kit (incl. beacon/shovel/probe) for a small daily fee.
: In general, your gear for the day will be very similar to a day of skiing in the resort, but here are a few key pieces that are unique to the backcountry and crucial for the day –
A hat and pair of sunglasses (These come in handy on the hike up)
Sunscreen
Water and snacks (Our guides recommend between 1-2L of water depending on your intake)
Lighter, more breathable layer options than a typical resort layering system. An additional light pair of gloves is preferred for uphill travel
Ski poles with powder baskets, or a pair of collapsable poles for splitboarding. (We have these available at no extra charge if you need them)
A backpack, and any avalanche rescue gear you may own. (Our guides recommend packs around 20-30L)
**Please give us a call if you have any questions about what to bring, or if your gear will be appropriate for the day.
: Please click here to review our domestic cancellation policy
: While no outdoor adventure can be completely free of risk without losing the essence of the activity, hiring a professional guide is a fantastic way to manage and mitigate this risk. Activities like skiing and climbing have what we call “inherent risk”, which can be defined as a risk that cannot be completely mitigated by a professional. That is part of playing in the mountains. We encourage you to reach out to the office if you would like to discuss this in more detail.

Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need.

Download Equipment Link

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Avalanche Transceiver
A digital transceiver that is simple to use or that you are extremely comfortable using.

Recommended: Black Diamond Recon Avalanche X Beacon
Climbing Skins
Many options are available, and are often comparable. Most important is to ensure your skins are trimmed properly for the ski you will be touring with. Skins with a secure tail clip are preferred.

Recommended for Skis: Black Diamond Ascension Nylon STS

Recommended for Splitboards: Black Diamond Ascension Splitboard STS
Liner Gloves
These gloves keep the inside of your mitts or other gloves from accumulating sweat on the inside and turning inside out when you take them off, as well as provide additional insulation.

Recommended: Black Diamond Lightweight Wooltech Gloves
Long Sleeve Base Layer
A long sleeve base layer that is fitted, lightweight and quick drying. Make sure it is long enough to tuck in.

Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Coefficient Crew

Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Solution Crew
Mid-Weight Warm Layer
A polar guard or fleece jacket. This mid-layer will be worn over your base layer most of the trip.

Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Coefficient LT Quarter Zip

Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Solution Quarter Zip
Probe
A strong, lightweight avalanche probe, 260-300cm.

Recommended: Black Diamond QuickDraw Pro Probe 280
Shovel
A lightweight metal avalanche rescue shovel. Extendable handle is recommended.

Recommended: Black Diamond Evac 7
Ski Crampons
While ski crampons are strongly recommended on our domestic backcountry ski programs, they are required on all of our International Ski Expeditions. These are typically used on early spring days when the snow is often icy on the way up before the conditions transition. Many bindings accept a compatible crampon made by the manufacturer.

Recommended: Black Diamond ATK Ski Crampons
Ski Helmet
A ski specific helmet that is less than 10 years old.

Recommended: Scott Track Plus Helmet
Ski Touring Boots
These need to be a touring specific boot with walk mode, and a rubber sole. Typically sized a bit larger than your regular alpine boot, and light weight is a huge plus. Be sure to try many pairs on to find the right fit; it can make or break a day in the mountains!

Recommended: Fischer Transalp Pro or Transalp Tour WS
Ski/Splitboard Poles
Adjustable ski poles with powder baskets. Note: Splitboarders, be sure to use 3 section poles so they collapse small enough to reasonably attach to your pack while in riding mode.

Recommended: Black Diamond Expedition 2 or Expedition 3 Poles
Skis w/ Touring Bindings
A lightweight touring ski with touring bindings. Our guides suggest something between 95mm and 110mm underfoot. Keep in mind that extremely lightweight boards are great on the uphill, but can prove challenging in variable conditions.

Recommended Skis: Black Diamond Helio Carbon 95 Skis

Recommended Bindings: Black Diamond ATK Crest 10 Bindings
Snowboard Boots
The same boots you wear at the resort are great for your splitboard. Be sure they’re comfortable, backcountry touring means long days in your boots!

Recommended: Burton Tourist Snowboard Boots
Splitboard
A splitboard that you are comfortable riding in a variety of conditions.

Recommended: Jones Solution Splitboard
Splitboard Crampons
While splitboard crampons are strongly recommended on our domestic backcountry splitboard programs, they are required on all of our International Splitboard Expeditions. These are typically used on early spring days when the snow is often icy on the way up before the conditions transition. Many bindings accept a compatible crampon made by the manufacturer.

Recommended: Spark R&D Ibex ST Splitboard Crampons
Synthetic Top
A simple, lightweight synthetic jacket. This item is good for layering systems to stay warm in cold, wet conditions.

Recommended: Black Diamond First Light Stretch Hoodie
Ski Socks
Ski socks will keep your feet warm and dry during long tours in the mountains.

Recommended: Smartwool
Touring Backpack
Internal frame pack that is between 25 and 35 liters. Either purchase a matching pack cover, or use garbage bags as liners to protect from precipitation. Make sure the pack is fitted to YOUR body.

Recommended: Black Diamond Dawn Patrol 32L
Goggles
These will be worn on stormy or windy days. Make sure you are getting a snug fit with lenses for bright sun. Ventilation and anti-fog features are desired.

Recommended: Vuarnet Everest Goggles
Neck Gaiter (Buff)
A multi-purpose neck gator that can also be worn under your hat. Make sure that it covers as much skin as possible and yet is still comfy.

Recommended: Alpenglow Buff
Sunglasses
Must have dark lenses. Minimal light should come in below, above, or around the sides of the lenses.“Wrap” style is best. Ventilation is important and a retainer strap is very useful (Chums or Croakies).

Recommended: Vaurnet Ice Rounds
Balaclava
We recommend a tight-fitting balaclava that is worn under your hat. Make sure that it covers as much skin as possible, but is comfortable enough to wear for hours.

Recommended: Black Diamond Coefficient LT Balaclava
Hat
Bring your favorite baseball hat for shelter from the sun. No white under the brim – the reflection off of it from the sun is blinding.

Recommended: Alpenglow Hat
Beanie
A comfortable, warm well-fitting hat that covers your ears. Make sure that one of your hats fits under a helmet.

Recommended: Black Diamond Levels Beanie
Lightweight Gloves
All-around gloves for mountaineering, backcountry skiing, and hiking. These gloves (and similar options) are warm, wind-resistant, durable and have a sure grip. You will rarely take these gloves off. They should be snug-fitting, and have some sort of reinforced palm.

Recommended: Black Diamond Tour Gloves
Heavyweight Gloves
These gloves should be full GORE-TEX®, with a removable fleece liner (so you can take the liner out and dry it at night). These gloves are used at higher altitudes and are needed to keep your hands dry, and warm. Over the cuff style is desired.

Recommended: Black Diamond Guide Gloves
Hard Shell Jacket
A lightweight, waterproof and breathable jacket WITH A HOOD that can withstand extreme weather conditions. Make sure you have pit-zips and if you are using an old jacket, re-waterproof it.

Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Liquid Point Shell

Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Liquid Point Shell
Hard Shell Climbing Pant
Your waterproof bottom layer for extreme weather days. Make sure you have water-resistant zippers, crampon patches + good pockets.

Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Liquid Point Pant

Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Liquid Point Pant
Mid-Weight Puffy Jacket
A simple, lightweight puffy jacket. This item is good for layering systems and staying warm. We recommend 800-fill down that is packable and resists inclement weather.

Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Approach Down Jacket

Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Approach Down Jacket
Lightweight Top
Ultra-light base layer that effectively wicks moisture away from your body and is breathable. Quick-dry is important as well. One light-colored shirt is recommended for extremely sunny days.

Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Lightwire Short Sleeve

Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Lightwire Short Sleeve
Base Layer Bottoms
Fitted and quick drying. This piece will be a base-layer that will get you through a wide range of temperatures

Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Coefficient LT Pants

Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Coefficient LT Pants
Two 1L Nalgene Bottles
Two 1 Liter Wide Mouth Nalgene bottles.

Recommended: Nalgene 1 L wide mouth

Testimonials

They provided a wealth of knowledge to make me feel more prepared
“Had a great experience with my AIARE 1 class at Alpenglow. Just the online portion of the class provided a wealth of knowledge to make me feel more prepared. The 2 days of in field work were engaging, really informative, and a great time overall. Our guide, Alex, was awesome and did a great job of making sure that we were learning what we needed, while also enjoying our experience. I feel much more prepared to safely explore the backcountry and continue to build my knowledge.”

Jackson S.