Level Two: Dive deeper into avalanche education with advanced terrain analysis and snow stability assessment.
Season
Winter
Skill Level
Advanced
Duration
3 days
Group Size
up to six participants
Welcome to the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) Level Two Course, a comprehensive three-day/24-hour program designed to elevate backcountry travelers' decision-making skills in complex scenarios. As an American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) Accredited Business, we take pride in providing top-tier instruction led exclusively by AMGA-certified guides, ensuring the highest standards of experiential education and guidance. Building upon the foundational knowledge acquired in the AIARE 1 course, participants in the AIARE 2 delve deeper into advanced topics, including assuming leadership roles within small travel groups, navigating intricate terrain, and crafting travel plans in resource-limited environments.
This course empowers backcountry travelers with the tools to assess critical hazard factors by exploring weather patterns, snowpack dynamics, and avalanche processes in relation to observational data and travel decisions in avalanche terrain. Through engaging discussions and hands-on activities, students will learn to identify specific avalanche hazards within the landscape and discern terrain where consequences may be particularly severe. Moreover, participants will develop leadership competencies essential for facilitating group discussions, promoting prudent terrain selection, and implementing effective risk management strategies within small teams.
Prerequisites for enrollment include prior experience traveling in avalanche terrain, completion of an AIARE 1 Course or equivalent Level 1 training (strongly recommended), and participation in an AIARE or A3-approved one-day Avalanche Rescue Course. Additionally, prospective students are encouraged to gain a winter of practical experience post-Level 1 training to maximize their learning outcomes in the AIARE 2 course. Join us on this educational journey, where you'll refine your avalanche knowledge and decision-making prowess under the guidance of expert instructors.
.png)
Max Lurie - Owner of Alpine to the Max
Max Lurie is an American Mountain Guides Association certified Rock and Alpine Guide, as well as an accomplished alpinist. Max has been climbing since 2004 and traveling to the greater ranges in pursuit of his passion.
As an independently certified climbing guide based in Boulder, CO, Max provides custom education and mountain experiences in the Colorado Front Range and beyond. All of the climbing instruction offered through Alpine to the Max is customized to your goals, objectives, and skill level.
Itinerary for a three-day AIARE Level Two course:
Day 1
Day 2:
Day 3:
Please note that this itinerary is a sample and may vary based on factors such as weather conditions, group dynamics, and specific course objectives set by the instructors. Adjustments may be made to accommodate the needs and progress of the participants throughout the course
Before enrolling in an AIARE Level Two course, participants should ensure they meet certain prerequisites. These include having successfully completed an AIARE Level One course, possessing a basic understanding of avalanche hazard management and decision-making processes, and having prior experience in backcountry skiing or snowboarding. Additionally, participants should be physically fit for outdoor activities and willing to engage in practical exercises and scenarios. Familiarity with basic avalanche rescue techniques and equipment is also beneficial. It's essential to review any pre-course reading materials provided and come prepared with the necessary equipment. With these prerequisites met, participants can maximize their learning experience and readiness for more advanced avalanche terrain assessment and decision-making in the Level Two course.
It is expected that you've spent at least several seasons traveling in the winter backcountry before taking your level two course. While our instructors are top-notch and can meet you wherever you are at, you will get the most from this course if you aren't worried about your movement abilities on variable snow and can focus on the topics being discussed.
The AIARE Level 2 course consists of one classroom day and two full field days.
While the specific terrain will vary depending on location and instructor discretion, AIARE Level 2 courses typically involve travel in a variety of simple avalanche terrain. The focus of the AIARE Level 2 course is on applying decision-making skills to navigate complex terrain and identify areas of higher avalanche risk. Your instructors will prioritize safe travel practices while still providing opportunities to practice route planning and hazard evaluation in realistic scenarios.
Completing the AIARE Level 2 course is a big accomplishment, but it's important to remember it's not a guarantee of perfect decision-making in avalanche terrain. The course equips you with valuable knowledge and skills, but safe backcountry travel requires ongoing learning and experience. Avalanche danger is constantly changing due to a complex interplay of weather, snowpack, and specific terrain features. The course can't possibly cover every situation you might encounter. Ultimately, the responsibility for deciding whether or not to travel in avalanche terrain falls on you. AIARE Level 2 teaches you how to assess avalanche risk, but good judgment is essential to apply that knowledge to the unique conditions you face.
To truly enhance your backcountry safety, combine your AIARE training with real-world experience under qualified guidance. Regularly consult avalanche forecasts and pursue ongoing education to stay informed. Remember, prioritizing safety and adapting your plans based on current conditions is always crucial, even after completing the AIARE Level 2 course.
Alpine to the Max is an independent certified guide with more than a decade of experience in a wide variety of terrain. No matter your current skill level, when you climb with us you get a top-notch experience that is fully customized to meet your exact desires.
