LEVEL 1
ZOOM
Level 1 Zoom offers foundational backcountry training with the classroom portion delivered online for flexibility. This course covers essential avalanche safety and travel techniques, followed by in-person field days where participants join the group for hands-on learning and practical application.
Comprehensive online instruction for the classroom day
Participants join the group for in-person field days to apply their skills directly
Interactive sessions and virtual demonstrations
Convenient for remote learners and those with busy schedules
Level 1 Zoom Description
If you have put off taking your Apex AIARE Level 1 course because you couldn’t or don’t want to take a Friday off from work, we have the solution. This Zoom course offers an alternative!
With this Zoom course you can learn the classroom material from the comfort of your home during two evening classes. Then join us in person for the backcountry field days offered in our typical AIARE Level 1 Backcountry Course.
We offer one Zoom course each month. Following this zoom course you will have 4 weeks to join us in the field to complete your Level 1 training and receive your AIARE Level 1 certificate.
Note: In-person field days are a required part of the course and cannot be replaced with virtual instruction. The system will guide you to book the field days after choosing the Zoom course. You are also welcome to attend the classroom day in person if you want.
Booking & Availability
Ready to embark on your winter adventure? We’re excited to guide you on your Backcountry Level 1 journey. Reserve your spot through the calendar below, or for more information, call us at (970) 949-9111 or visit our contact page.
If you don’t see enough availability for your group, give us a call—our team can often accommodate larger groups or special requests with flexibility. Let’s get you out in the snow!
Don’t see a date you are looking for? Be sure to check out our traditional AIARE Level 1 Backcountry Course for additional course dates, or request a Private Course date.
Quick Information
Learn from home with the new Apex Zoom schedule.
This course is available to all ages 12 and up. (Ages 12-14 requires parents to attend also. All minor registrations must contact the office in advance of booking for prescreening approval.)
2024-25 DATES
- December 10 and 12 (available spots: 6)
- January 07 and 09 (available spots: 6)
- February 11 and 13 (available spots: 6)
Online classes take place Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6pm to 9pm.
**Availability updated weekly. For the most current availability, please check the booking calendar on the right side of the page.**
Field days take place Saturday & Sunday approximately 8am-5pm.
COST
Course – $80 (Zoom course) $695 (Field Days)
Includes:
- Student Manual
- AIARE Field Book
- Apex Mountain School Buff
- 2 Remote Session Class Days, Tuesday and Thursday, 6pm-9pm
- 2 Full Field Days, 8am-5pm
- AIARE Certificate of Completion
DIFFICULTY
Easy – Moderate
DURATION
- ~4-hour online e-learning module
- Two, 3-hour, remote evening sessions
- Two, 9-hour, field days
- Total Time ~ 27 hours*
*Total Course Time includes pre-course e-learning module
FIELD LOCATIONS
Vail Valley, Vail Pass, Fremont Pass and/or surrounding areas
See our inclusion policy for special group requests.
What you should bring
WHAT TO BRING
- Beacon/probe/shovel (rental available)
- Clinometer (BCA slope meter, also available on compasses)
- Complete ski, split board or snowshoe equipment, including boots, poles, etc
- *No cotton – cotton does not wick moisture or insulate when wet.
- Long underwear bottom (thin) – synthetic or wool
- Long sleeve top (medium) – synthetic or wool
- Socks – synthetic or wool
- Ground mat (insulation so you can sit on snow)
- Water/wind proof jacket with hood, pants, and gloves
- Notebook (for lecture day)
- Any other items you would typically have in your pack on a backcountry trip
- Warm gloves or mittens
- Hat and neck gaiter or balaclava
- Goggles or sunglasses
- Small day pack
- Water bottle and food
- Headlamp and batteries
ALSO RECOMMENDED
- Loupe (at least 10x zoom)
- Snow Saw (minimum 30cm)
- Snow crystal card
YOU MAY ALSO CONSIDER
- Hand warmers
- Hot liquid
- Liner socks
- Adjustable Poles
- Extra gloves
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle insulator
Trip Insurance
Safeguard your guided trips and mountain courses with comprehensive trip insurance, offering peace of mind and protection throughout your adventurous explorations.
Meet our guides
Our guides are dedicated to giving the safest, most fulfilling experience to our clients. With the most AMGA certifications we have the most qualified guides in the area.
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