The Outbound Mountain Gear AIARE Avalanche Rescue course is a one day, stand alone course in companion rescue. It is for new and experienced backcountry travelers, and AIARE lists it as a prerequisite for the AIARE 2 course.

What it's for

This course teaches you what to do when someone in your group is caught in an avalanche. AIARE aims it at new and experienced recreational backcountry travelers and at people who plan to become avalanche professionals. AIARE recommends that all backcountry travelers retake an Avalanche Rescue course at least every other year to keep skills current.

How it works

Companion rescue basics: what to do if you or a member of your party is caught in an avalanche.

Rescue gear: how to identify and use the gear needed for avalanche rescue.

Realistic scenarios: you set up and practice a full avalanche rescue response.

Coaching: instructors give feedback so your response skills and times improve during and after the course.

Practice plan: you leave with a plan for continued practice.

Specs

• Course date: January 10, 2027
• Length: 1 day
• Prerequisites: none, other than being able to travel on snow
• Counts toward: AIARE 2 and AIARE Pro 1 prerequisites

You will also need

• Snow travel gear: AIARE asks students to bring appropriate equipment for traveling on snow