Level 1 Preparation

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.

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Preview basic avalanche safety principles and techniques

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Boost your confidence with gear handling and movement skills

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Prepare for the Level 1 course with hands-on practice

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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.

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.

Our Guides