Outbound Mountain Gear is excited to offer a Hut-Based Avalanche Recreational 1 Course, designed for recreational adventurers looking to enhance their skills and safety in avalanche terrain. This course offers a unique opportunity to learn essential avalanche safety skills while staying in a cozy backcountry hut. With a combination of classroom lessons and hands-on fieldwork, participants will gain the knowledge and confidence to make safe decisions in avalanche-prone areas.

Why Choose a Hut-Based Course?

By combining learning with an unforgettable backcountry experience, our hut-based course allows participants to:

• Stay in a comfortable, fully-equipped backcountry hut in a stunning mountain location.
• Enjoy real-world learning in avalanche terrain while being supported by expert instructors.
• Engage in group discussions and hands-on practice, making the learning process more engaging and practical.

Key Learning Objectives

1. Avalanche Safety Essentials:

   • Understand avalanche formation, triggers, and risk factors.
   • Learn how to identify and evaluate avalanche terrain in the field.

2. Safe Travel Techniques:

   • Learn techniques for navigating avalanche terrain safely, including route selection and group management.
   • Understand how to assess snow conditions and recognize unstable snowpack.

3. Rescue Skills:

   • Practice using avalanche beacons, probes, and shovels in realistic rescue scenarios.
   • Develop efficient and effective rescue strategies for companion rescue situations.

4. Decision-Making in Avalanche Terrain:

   • Learn how to make informed decisions based on risk assessment, weather forecasts, and group dynamics.
   • Practice how to manage risk and communicate effectively within your group.

Course Format

This immersive course runs over three days and combines classroom instruction with practical, hands-on training in the field, all while staying at a scenic mountain hut.

• Day 1: Arrival at the hut, course orientation, introduction to avalanche safety, and trip planning.
• Day 2: Field sessions covering avalanche terrain evaluation, snowpack analysis, and safe travel techniques, hands-on companion rescue activities
• Day 3: Student led tour, decision-making exercises, and a debrief to solidify your learning.

Hut Location & Amenities

• Location: Carner's Cabin, Leadville Colorado
• Amenities:
  • A cozy, heated hut with communal cooking and sleeping spaces.
  • Access to nearby avalanche-prone terrain for real-world practice.
  • Stunning mountain views and the opportunity to enjoy the tranquility of the backcountry.

What to Bring

• Avalanche Safety Gear: Beacon, probe, and shovel (available for rent from Outbound Mountain Gear).
• Backcountry Travel Gear: Skis, splitboard, or snowshoes for travel in the area.
• Personal Gear: Sleeping bag, layered clothing, food, snacks, and water.
• Additional Items: Headlamp, extra gloves, and a camera to capture the amazing mountain views.

Why Choose Outbound Mountain Gear?

Outbound Mountain Gear provides expert instructors, high-quality equipment, and a supportive learning environment. Our hut-based Avalanche Recreational 1 course ensures that you get the best of both worlds: professional avalanche training and a true backcountry adventure.

Registration

Limited spots are available to ensure an intimate learning experience. Reserve your place today and join us for a safe, educational, and unforgettable adventure in the mountains.