Waitlist Only: Email rex@wallowaavalanchecenter.org

New for 2025 we are offering a 3-day hut-based AIARE Level 2 Course combined with a Companion Rescue Course at the Buck Creek Hut operated by Eagle Cap Mountain Guides.

Course Description

The AIARE 2 is a three-day/24-hour course that allows backcountry travelers to advance their decision-making skills in more complicated situations such as being a leader within a small travel group, traveling in more complicated terrain, and/or developing a travel plan where resources are scarce.

The AIARE 2 builds on the introductory avalanche hazard management model introduced in the AIARE 1 and adds to it the evaluation of critical hazard assessment factors. Students will describe and discuss weather, snowpack and avalanche processes, and identify how these processes relate to observations and travel within avalanche terrain.

Who Should Take this Course

The AIARE 2 is a three-day course for those who have taken an AIARE 1 and have had at least a year of backcountry travel experience. The AIARE 2 provides backcountry leaders the opportunity to advance their avalanche knowledge and decision-making skills.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Differentiate where specific avalanche hazards exist within the landscape and identify avalanche terrain where consequences may be more severe.
• Use and interpret weather, snow, and avalanche observations to locate appropriate terrain prior to entering and while in the field.
• Demonstrate leadership skills within a small team that includes facilitating small group discussions, promoting appropriate terrain selection, and utilizing simple risk management strategies.
• Implement a basic forecasting framework that can be used in conjunction with and in the absence of local supporting avalanche information.

Prerequisites

• Participants must have the ability to travel in avalanche terrain.
• An AIARE 1 Course (strongly recommended) or equivalent Level 1 training is required.
• A winter of practical experience after the Level 1 course is highly recommended before taking the AIARE 2 course.