Avalanche Level 1 Course

$615

Utah
2-4 People per Guide
2 Days + Online Module + 1 Remote Session
Beginner-above

$615

Utah
2-4 People per Guide
2 Days + Online Module + 1 Remote Session
Beginner-above

This comprehensive avalanche course offers both an online learning module and two 8-hour hands-on field days in the Wasatch Mountains, Utah, led by expert instructors from WMG. WMG is a American Avalanche Association recognized provider. Hybrid Self-Paced Online Learning Course + Two Backcountry Field Days.

Level 1 Avalanche Course

Avalanche Rec Level 1 Course offered in partnership with the American Avalanche Institute. WMG is an American Avalanche Association Recognized Course Provider.

This comprehensive course offers both an online learning module, one two hour remote session with the instructor, and two 8-hour hands-on field days in the Wasatch Mountains, Utah, led by expert instructors from Wasatch Mountain Guides.

Credentials

For the 2025/2026 season our instructors range from AMGA Assistant Ski Guide to IFMGA AMGA Mountain Guide. All have the Avalanche Pro Level 2 certification and WFR certification. We take pride in our programs and are serious about being part of your backcountry and avalanche education.

Dates (book via “Book Trip” calendar):

These dates include the two field days. The evening before we will hold a remote video session.

Dates in 2026 include:

  • January 10-11
  • January 24-25
  • January 31-February 1
  • February 14-15
  • February 28-29

FAQs

What is included in the Hybrid Avalanche Level 1 Course?

The Hybrid Avalanche Level 1 Course includes self-paced online avalanche education, a live virtual classroom session, and two full days of in-person field training focused on avalanche awareness, terrain selection, snowpack evaluation, and companion rescue skills.

Who should take a Hybrid Avalanche Level 1 course?

This course is designed for beginner to intermediate backcountry skiers, splitboarders, snowshoers, and winter travelers who want to safely travel in avalanche terrain. No previous avalanche training is required.

Am I ready for this course?

Students should have prior experience using their own backcountry travel gear before taking this course. You don’t need formal avalanche education, but it’s strongly recommended that you’ve spent a few days touring and have practiced basic skills like skinning, transitions, and traveling efficiently in winter terrain so you can focus on avalanche decision-making and field skills during the course. Check out our Introduction to Backcountry 1-day course.

What avalanche safety gear is required for the course?

Participants must travel with avalanche safety equipment including a beacon, shovel, and probe, along with appropriate backcountry travel gear. Avalanche rescue equipment and packs can be provided if needed.

How does the online avalanche course portion work?

Students complete the online avalanche curriculum before the field days at their own pace. A required live virtual session takes place the evening before the first field day to review key concepts and prepare for hands-on field instruction.

What certification do I earn after completing Avalanche Level 1?

After completing the online coursework, virtual session, and field training, students earn an Avalanche Level 1 certification, providing a foundation for safer backcountry travel and progression to advanced avalanche education. After this course, consider Avalanche Rescue and, after spending a fair amount of time applying your Level 1 skills, consider Avalanche Level 2.

  • Self-Paced Online Learning Module via the American Avalanche Institute
  • Live Virtual Seminar with Expert WMG Instructors (the evening before your first field day)
  • Two In-Depth Field Days in the Backcountry
  • Avalanche Level 1 certification upon full completion
  • Avalanche beacon, shovel, probe, and backpack (if needed)
  • A minimum of 2 students in order for the course to occur
  • If you are seeking a private course for more than 4 individuals, please contact us directly

Once you have paid and registered, you’ll receive access to an expansive online course containing:

  • Instructional videos
  • Extensive workbook with note outlines
  • In-depth online study guide
  • Comprehensive quizzes

This digital course was developed by the American Avalanche Institute and is framed around the Backcountry Avalanche Checklist. This Checklist is a systemic and proven approach to comprehensive decision-making in the complex backcountry environment.

The course material can be completed at your leisure but must be completed before your field days. The WMG team will be available to respond to questions via email at all times. Participants can go back and review course material even after the completion of the course, for the duration of the winter season.

As mentioned, the course includes two field days in the backcountry. The evening before your first field day, we’ll meet with with everyone for two hours via video conference to review core curriculum, answer any questions you have and make sure you’re packed and ready.

Our field days of backcountry travel will be two consecutive 8-hour days based in Big or Little Cottonwood Canyon. The course may also have 1 or 2 field days in the Provo area mountains. We’ll cover an exhaustive set of avalanche preparedness skills, including:

  • Tour planning
  • Snowpack and weather observations and assessment
  • Terrain assessment
  • Safe travel
  • Field observations
  • Stability tests and assessment
  • Rescue skills and drills
    • Companion rescue
    • Team structure and roles
    • Avalanche response and steps
    • Beacon search
    • Probing techniques
    • Strategic shoveling
    • Plus more

If you’re planning to explore the winter wonders of Utah’s Wasatch Mountains, enrolling in a Level 1 avalanche course is an absolute must. This essential training equips outdoor enthusiasts with the knowledge and skills needed to stay safe in avalanche terrain. Here’s why you shouldn’t embark on your winter adventures without it.

1. Safety First: Avalanche incidents can be life-threatening. A Level 1 avalanche course teaches you vital safety protocols, including risk assessment, terrain evaluation, and rescue techniques, minimizing the chances of accidents.

2. Expert Guidance: Led by certified instructors, the course provides expert guidance from seasoned professionals with extensive backcountry experience, ensuring comprehensive learning.

3. Know Before You Go: Understanding snow science, weather patterns, and avalanche mechanics empowers you to make informed decisions while navigating the backcountry.

4. Terrain Management: Learn to identify potential avalanche terrain and develop route-finding skills to steer clear of hazardous areas.

5. Comprehensive Curriculum: The Level 1 course covers essential topics such as snowpack analysis, decision-making frameworks, and effective communication within a group.

6. Real-Life Practice: Participate in practical exercises and mock scenarios that simulate real avalanche situations, building your confidence and competence in emergency response.

7. Winter Preparedness: Being avalanche-aware enhances your winter preparedness and allows you to enjoy the snowy wonderland responsibly.

8. Community Connection: Meet like-minded outdoor enthusiasts, fostering a community focused on safety and responsible backcountry exploration.

Don’t let the allure of the Wasatch Mountains’ winter beauty lure you into unpreparedness. A Level 1 avalanche course in Utah arms you with the necessary skills and awareness to make the most of your backcountry experiences safely.

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