Mar 10, 2025 | Backcountry Skiing, Education, Educational Program, Ski Mountineering
I’ve gotten some questions about this from a number of people. I might go so far as to say it’s a troubling trend. You should really not think about it as ski “cutting” while on belay. You can sidestep, jump, stomp and observe on belay. But you...
Oct 9, 2024 | AIARE Avalanche Education, Backcountry Skiing, Colorado
When it comes to avalanche education, I only use the curriculum developed by the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE). The main reason for this is the curriculum support and instructor standards created by the non profit structure. Non...
Sep 22, 2024 | Uncategorized
The mountains can be a dangerous place but also a very rewarding one. The Planning Triangle is a useful framework for anyone leading trips in the mountains. In essence, it a way to think about the most important variables in planning a mission: The team’s...
Jan 11, 2024 | AIARE Avalanche Education, Backcountry Skiing, Colorado, Uncategorized
Its been a tough winter for snowfall in the lower 48. All over the American west we see a lot of red. In the PNW snow totals have not stacked up even as precipitation numbers are strong. Storms have been too warm and come in as rain. Colorado has generally hung around...
Oct 7, 2023 | AIARE Avalanche Education, Backcountry Skiing, Colorado
Avalanche education in the United States is structured to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to safely explore avalanche-prone terrain. The framework for avalanche education in the USA involves key organizations, including the American Avalanche...
