• Group of people in a snowy landscape with AIARE 1 Snoqualmie Pass
  • a group of AIARE 1 students learn hand shears at Snoqualmie Pass in the Alpental Valley
  • AIARE 1 students get experience traveling through terrain in the Mount Baker Backcountry.
  • AIARE 1 participants make snowpack observations and identify layers in the snowpack.
  • Lead guide and Founder of Guided Exposure shows a group of AIARE 1 students snow grains on a crystal card, during a snow pit lesson in the Mount Baker Backcountry.
  • AIARE 1 students get feedback on their snow profile from the Lead Guide at Guided Exposure. Mount Shuksan stand tall in the background on a stunning day in the Mount Baker Backcountry.
  • AIARE 1 students practice digging while performing an avalanche rescue.
  • Splitboarders get a feeling for people while using avalanche probes at a SPlitboard AIARE 1 course at Mount Baker.
  • Snowboarding in the Mount Baler backcountry is a beautiful experience. A snowboarder rides in the sunshine with Mount Baker in the background.
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AIARE 1 Snoqualmie Pass

$650.00 USD
$650.00 USD

Course Highlight

2-Day AIARE 1 Course – Snoqualmie

This accelerated 2-day course is designed for backcountry travelers seeking foundational avalanche knowledge and rescue skills 2 field days in a weekend format. The course combines self-paced online learning, a pre-field Zoom session, and two intensive field days.

The AIARE 1 is for ANYONE, regardless of method of travel, who wants to recreate in or near avalanche terrain. Our AIARE 1 surpasses national standards by offering 2 field days supported with our virtual video sessions.

Our AIARE courses include self paced online learning modules provided by the award winning American Institute of Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) with a 2 hour review with our pro AIARE Instructors. That's up to 25% more time in the North Cascade Mountains with professional mentorship than almost every course out there. That means less time sitting inside suffering from power point fatigue talking about it and more time out there doing it!  

Course Overview

  • Travel Planning: Develop a comprehensive plan for safe travel and avoid avalanche terrain.

  • Terrain Identification: Demonstrate the ability to identify avalanche-prone areas.

  • Risk Management: Utilize the AIARE Risk Management Framework to make informed terrain choices within a group.

  • Companion Rescue: Execute effective companion rescue techniques.

Students can expect an introduction to avalanche hazard management, to develop a good grounding in how to prepare for and carry out a backcountry trip, to understand basic decision making while in the field, and to learn rescue techniques required to find and dig up a buried person (if an avalanche occurs and someone in the party is caught).

  • Expert Instruction: Learn from our professional AIARE instructors who bring extensive backcountry ski experience and in depth personal local knowledge.
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Benefit from a well-rounded program that combines online learning with 2 days of hands-on field time.
  • 2 Field Days at Snoqualmie Pass: Enjoy up to 25% more field time than typical courses, allowing for deeper understanding and skill application.

 

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Morning briefing and gear check then ski touring in Alpental Valley
  • Day 2: Morning briefing and gear check then ski touring in Common Wealth Valley

Join us for an unforgettable experience and gain the skills you need to explore avalanche terrain safely. Register now and take the first step towards becoming a knowledgeable and confident backcountry traveler.

Our custom crafted AIARE course provides several online learning resources for self paced work leading up to our in person sessions. We will have a 2 hour virtual session in the week before our course. 

 

AIARE 1 Snoqualmie Pass FAQs

Who should take AIARE 1 at Snoqualmie Pass?

AIARE 1 is for anyone who travels in or near avalanche terrain, including backcountry skiers, splitboarders, snowshoers, climbers, and winter hikers.

Is AIARE 1 good for beginners?

Yes. AIARE 1 is the standard starting point for winter backcountry travelers who want a structured foundation in trip planning, terrain recognition, snow conditions, and group decision-making.

How is the Snoqualmie Pass course structured?

The course includes online learning, a virtual check-in, and two full field days around Snoqualmie Pass or Alpental, depending on conditions.

Do I need ski touring or splitboard gear?

You need an appropriate winter travel setup for the course. Skiers and splitboarders should have touring equipment, while other travel modes may be appropriate depending on the course format.

Why take AIARE 1 with Guided Exposure?

Guided Exposure emphasizes field time, practical decision-making, and local mountain context so students can apply AIARE concepts in real terrain.

 

Cancellation

It is your responsibility to be familiar with our Payment, Cancellation, and Rescheduling Policies. When you book a course with Guided Exposure, you are agreeing to our policies outlined here:

guidedexposure.com/pages/cancellation-policy