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.

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Comprehensive online instruction for the classroom day

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Participants join the group for in-person field days to apply their skills directly

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Interactive sessions and virtual demonstrations

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Convenient for remote learners and those with busy schedules

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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.

2024-25 DATES

December 10 and 12 (available spots: 6)
January 07 and 09 (available spots: 6)
February 11 and 13 (available spots: 6)

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.
**A minimum of 4 participants is required to run this course. In the unlikely event that we do not meet this minimum, we will work with you to reschedule or provide a full refund.

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)

**A minimum of 4 participants is required to run this course. In the unlikely event that we do not meet this minimum, we will work with you to reschedule or provide a full refund.

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

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

Trip Insurance

Safeguard your guided trips and mountain courses with comprehensive trip insurance, offering peace of mind and protection throughout your adventurous explorations.

SEE HOW IT WORKS

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