Level 1 Preparation starting from $560
Level 1 Preparation is designed for anyone who wants a jump start before the AIARE Level 1 Backcountry course. Whether you’re new to the backcountry or just feeling unsure, this pre-course training will help build your confidence by previewing essential skills and concepts, so you’ll feel prepared and ready for success.
Preview basic avalanche safety principles and techniques
Boost your confidence with gear handling and movement skills
Prepare for the Level 1 course with hands-on practice
Enter your Level 1 course with a head start on skills and knowledge
If you don’t see enough availability for your group, give us a call— we can often accommodate larger groups or special requests with flexibility.
Who is the Level 1 Prep Course designed for?
The Level 1 Prep Course is perfect for anyone feeling uncertain about diving straight into the AIARE Level 1 course. It’s a great option for those new to the backcountry or anyone who wants a confidence boost before tackling the full avalanche education curriculum. You’ll get a sneak peek of the skills and concepts covered in Level 1, along with fine tuning of movement skills both up and downhill, helping you to be better prepared for our level 1 avalanche education course.
What will I learn during the Level 1 Prep Course?
In this pre-course training, you’ll preview key avalanche safety principles, practice handling essential backcountry gear, and develop basic movement skills. It’s a hands-on experience designed to give you a head start on the skills and knowledge you’ll need for the AIARE Level 1 course, helping you enter with confidence.
Do I need any backcountry experience to join the Level 1 Prep Course?
No previous backcountry experience is necessary! The Level 1 Prep Course is specifically designed for those who are new to the backcountry or feeling unsure about their skills prior to entry into a level 1 avalanche education course. Our guides will introduce you to the basics in a stress-free, supportive environment, helping you feel comfortable and ready for the Level 1 course.
Why take the Level 1 Prep Course with Apex Mountain School?
Apex Mountain School’s guides are experienced in helping newcomers feel at ease in the backcountry. Our Level 1 Prep Course offers a unique opportunity to preview key skills in a low-pressure setting. You’ll benefit from expert instruction, tailored guidance, and a relaxed day of learning, ensuring you enter your Level 1 course feeling well-prepared and ready to succeed.
Level 1 Prep Description
Make sure you are ready for an AIARE avalanche education course with an Avalanche Prep Trip. During an AIARE course there is a great deal of information presented. If you do not have some kind of experience in the backcountry it can be hard to concentrate on the class. Apex’s Avalanche Prep Trips offer a stress free day where you can adventure into the backcountry with one of our guides. They will give you a peek into what you will be looking at in an AIARE Level 1 class and most importantly, they will make sure you feel comfortable in a new environment.
Booking & Availability
Ready to embark on your winter adventure? We’re excited to guide you on your Backcountry Level 1 Preparation 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 AIARE Level 1 FLEX for additional course dates, or request a Private Course date.
Quick Information
AIARE courses include a lot of information. If you have never explored the backcountry you can do so with an Avalanche Prep Trip and begin your avalanche education.
DATES
Available daily
DURATION
6-7 hours
COST
Max client to guide ratio 5:1
- $178 – 5+ people
- $198 – 4 people
- $224 – 3 people
- $250 – 2 people
LOCATION
Vail, CO (Meadow Mountain, Spraddle Creek)
Leadville, CO (Freemont Pass)
DIFFICULTY
Easy – Difficult
Policies
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
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.
What are you waiting for?
