AVALANCHE EDUCATION

Hut Based Rec Level 1 Avy Course

An immersive learning experience in a backcountry ski hut!

Starting your avalanche education can be intimidating and rewarding. Cirque will help mentor you through the process in this 3 day hut based avy course.

You will learn terrain management techniques and analyze avalanche hazards during our action packed field days.

Enhance your avalanche education skill while enjoying amazing views and stellar meals from the warmth of a back country hut.

Cirque’s Recreation level 1 Avalanche Course is recognized by the American Avalanche Association (AAA). Course is led by Dan Zokaites or Marc Ripperger, AMGA / IFMGA Licensed Mountain Guides.

ITINERARY

 

 

Day One
Depending on location we will meet at the hut or trailhead and dive into avalanche character/type and practice transceiver functions and rescues.

Day Two
After laying down the fundamentals of avalanche awareness, we dive into terrain management skills and tour planning methods.

Day Three
We apply the skills learned and discussed into an amazing student lead ski tour day. Students will get first hand feedback and guidance from one of the industry’s most experienced mountain guides.

AVAILABILITY

FULL | January 30-Feb. 1, 2026 – Silver Start Hut, Durango.
Instructors: Marc Ripperger

Custom dates are also available.

PRICING

$889 per person

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

Is This Course Right For Me?

An Avalanche Rescue Course is REQUIRED prior to start date of the course.

Participants should be able to comfortably ski blue runs with variable conditions on both open and treed slopes. Tour days typically consist of 2,000-2,500 ft. of ascent and descent. If your unfamiliar with backcountry equipment please take our into to backcountry skiing course first.

Course Curriculum
Our curriculum is approved and recognized by the American Avalanche Association (A3) and follows all current national guidelines. Each course uses Karl Birkeland’s digital eBook with clear visuals, checklists, and examples to support learning before, during, and after your course.

Course Length
3 full days of avalanche education

Group Size
This course is limited to max ratio of 5 students to 1 instructor

Departure Time
8:00 a.m.

Meeting Location
We will meet at the Mayday parking area outside of Hesperus, CO for the Silver Star Hut course promptly at 8am.

Equipment
We provide all avalanche rescue equipment (transceiver, probe, shovel) but your encouraged to use your own well cared for equipment.

Meals/Food
You are responsible for your personal snacks during the course. We will provide breakfast, appetizers, and dinner.

Included in your course cost

 

Not included in your course cost

  • Backcountry ski equipment (available to rent locally)
  • Personal lunch/snacks
  • Personal clothing and equipment
  • Transportation
  • Customary guide gratuity
  • Trip/Travel Insurance (highly recommended)
  • Incurred costs by leaving a program early
  • Incurred costs as a result of force majeure

NEXT STEPS

Thoughtfully chosen trips & courses to continue your progression.

Avalanche rescue course,cirque guides

VIEW COURSE

Avalanche Rescue Course

COLORADO

two skiers on red mountain pass on a level 2 avalanche course.

VIEW COURSE

Rec Level 2 Avalanche Course

COLORADO

VIEW TRIP

San Juan Huts Haute Route

COLORADO