Overview - This avalanche course is targeted at recreational skiers, snowboarders and snowmobilers. It is an 18-hour long course generally taught over two days, with 9 hours in the classroom and 9 hours in the field. In the classroom, students will become acquainted with the three principle contributing factors to avalanches (weather, terrain and snowpack), learn how to evaluate each as they relate to the probable hazard and use this data during decision making. These objectives are achieved through the combination of video, lecture and practical exercises. The field session will focus on route selection, hazard identification and evaluation, decision-making and rescue (beacon search, hasty search and self-rescue). Emphasis is on preparing the students to avoid avalanche terrain, make rudimentary evaluations of hazards and, in the event of an incident does occur, conduct a safe, timely rescue. The course includes a written test and rescue skills evaluation. Course size is limited to 12, with instructor student ratios of 1:8 or lower.

Course requirements - Students must sign a waiver, be in good health and be equipped to move over snow in a backcountry environment. Students should arrive with the clothing, water and food needed for a full day in the field.

Course cost - Standard course cost is $140. Professional and group discounts are available. Cost includes "Snow Sense" by Doug Fesler and Jill Fredston, an avalanche inclinometer, numerous handouts, one-time lift service if conducted at Schweitzer Mountain and use of the school’s rescue beacons, probes and shovels.

Location - Courses are generally conducted with the classroom session in the Sandpoint, ID area and the field session off the NW side of Schweitzer Mountain. Classroom sessions are sometimes taught over two weeknight evenings for customer convenience. We are also willing to export the course to your location, however course fees may vary depending on distance.

Overview - This course is also directed toward recreational skiers, snowboarders and snowmobilers. It addresses the same subject areas as the Level I course, but at greater depth -- more pits, more analysis, more decision-making and more fun! We’ll spend proportionately more time on weather, snow metamorphism and stability analysis. Learning is enhanced by the experience students bring to the classroom as well. The course is 3-4 days in duration with approximately 8 hours of classroom discussion and lots of field time. Course locations vary depending on snowpack and student desires/mobility. Minimum course size is five.

Course requirements - In addition to the requirements cited for Level I courses, students must show proof of completing a Level I Avalanche Awareness course or equivalent. Students must also have a minimum of one year’s experience since attending a Level I course.

Course cost - Base cost is $300. Cost may vary depending upon location and accommodations.

Location - Variable, as stated above.