AIARE 1 Avalanche Education in Holladay, Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition to handle moderate skiing and snow travel with some uphill skinning or hiking.
Overview
Prepare for safe backcountry skiing with the AIARE Level 1 course in Holladay, Utah. Gain hands-on avalanche skills and vital rescue knowledge in a dynamic mountain environment.
Details
Experience the critical skills needed for safe backcountry skiing with Red River Adventures’ AIARE Level 1 Avalanche Education course in Holladay, Utah. This comprehensive three-day program expertly combines virtual lessons with hands-on training in the Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons. Participants learn essential avalanche hazard identification, rescue techniques, and terrain assessment while engaging with seasoned instructors and fellow enthusiasts. Beyond classroom and fieldwork, the course offers invaluable practice in real avalanche terrain, sharpening decision-making skills vital for safe travel in winter backcountry environments. This immersive adventure allows students to build confidence, knowledge, and connections, empowering them to explore snowy mountains with greater awareness and respect for the dynamic mountain environment. Conveniently located near Salt Lake City, this course is perfectly suited for skiers and riders looking to enhance their safety and preparedness. Whether you’re a novice seeking a solid foundation or an intermediate backcountry traveler aiming to refresh your skills, this AIARE 1 course delivers expert instruction in a stunning alpine setting.
Adventure Tips
Always carry essential avalanche gear
Bring a beacon, probe, and shovel, and ensure you know how to use them before heading into avalanche terrain.
Check avalanche forecasts daily
Local conditions in the Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons can change quickly; stay informed through avalanche centers.
Practice terrain evaluation skills
Take time during the course to identify safe travel routes and recognize avalanche hazard signs in the field.
Dress in moisture-wicking layers
Layering lets you regulate body temperature during varied activity levels and changing weather.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Mill D North Fork Trail for quiet winter hiking
- Maybird Gulch, a secluded spot with excellent views and minimal traffic
Wildlife
- Mule deer
- Mountain bluebird
History
The Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons have long been essential for Utah's mining history, and today they serve as a hub for winter recreation and avalanche education.
Conservation
Local organizations actively monitor snowpack and promote responsible backcountry use to minimize human impact and preserve fragile mountain environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Alta ski area overlooks
- Silver Fork Canyon scenic spots
- Mill D North Fork Trail
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Avalanche beacon
A critical device for locating buried avalanche victims during rescue scenarios.
winter specific
Probe
Used to pinpoint the exact position of an avalanche victim under snow.
winter specific
Shovel
Necessary for efficient snow removal during rescue operations.
winter specific
Layered clothing
Allows regulation of body temperature during cold, physically demanding fieldwork.
winter specific