AVALANCHE EDUCATION

Level 1 Avalanche Course for Ice Climbers

Avalanche education specific to ice climbers and mountaineers.

This course prioritizes time spent in the field making hands-on snow assessments and analyzing avalanche terrain near and around ice climbs in the San Juan Mountains.

Build the skills necessary to travel confidently in the backcountry and make informed decisions. Learn terrain assessment tools and apply snow/weather observations to specific routes and climbs.

American Avalanche Association (AAA)  approved curriculum and ultra-experienced alpine guides make this the premier Avalanche Rec 1 course in the San Juan Mountains designed specifically for climbers.

ITINERARY

Day One
We meet at 8:00 a.m. in Ouray and spend classroom time introducing avalanche characters/types. We will then move to the field and practice transceiver functions and rescues, as well as identify avalanche terrain.

Day Two
After establishing the fundamentals of avalanche awareness, we dive into terrain and time management methods. Together, we will discuss avalanche problems, mountain weather, partner dynamics, and mountain terrain. We spend the field day utilizing the terrain and ice climbs up Campbird Road in Ouray. We will make pertinent observations and swing our tools on some of the local climbs.

Day Three
We apply the skills learned and discussed to an amazing student-led objective. Students will get first-hand feedback and guidance from one of the industry’s most experienced mountain guides.

AVAILABILITY

FULL | December 12-14, 2025 – Ouray, CO
Instructors: Sandy East & Elias de Andrés Martos

Custom dates are also available.

PRICING

$679 per person

Basic OIP Members receive free Avy Rescue course & 10% off Avy1

Pro & Ambassador OIP Members receive free Avy Rescue course & 15% off Avy1

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

Is This Course Right For Me?
Participants will not be expected or required to ski in a downhill capacity but do need snow flotation like snowshoes or skis.

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

Course Length
3 full days of avalanche education

Group Size
maximum of 5:1 or 10:2 instructor to guide ratio

Departure Time
8:00 a.m.

Meeting Location
Town Based in Ouray – you will receive specific meeting location upon registration.

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

Included in your course cost

  • Instructed by Sandy East, Sandy East A-3 pro, with 45 years experience.
  • Rec Level 1 Certificate recognized by (AAA)
  • Field notebook
  • Avalanche rescue equipment (transceiver, probe, shovel)

Not included in your course cost

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

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