AIARE 1 Avalanche Course
Quick Info
Duration 3 days (24 hours)
Group Size 6 people per course
Season December to March
Skill Level Experience with your mode of travel for course
Difficulty Moderate
Cost $600
Fully in person and hybrid course options are available
AIARE 1 Avalanche Course
Learn Avalanche Safety. Make Smart Decisions. Ski with Confidence.
Master the fundamentals of avalanche awareness, terrain analysis, and rescue in this immersive 3-day backcountry course led by an internationally certified mountain guide.
The AIARE 1 course offers a comprehensive three-day, 24-hour introduction to managing avalanche hazards. Students will learn how to effectively prepare for and execute a backcountry trip, make fundamental field decisions, and master the rescue techniques necessary to locate and excavate a buried individual in the event of an avalanche involving a party member.
AIARE 1 is ideal for individuals seeking to engage in activities in or near avalanche-prone areas. While prior awareness classes, workshops, or the Avalanche Rescue course may be beneficial, none are required to enroll in AIARE 1. Those aiming for professional advancement must complete both AIARE 1 and the Avalanche Rescue course before progressing to the Pro 1 course.
Each of our AIARE courses is personally instructed by IFMGA Mountain Guide Keith Moon. Keith’s extensive personal and professional experience allows him to deliver the curriculum in a deeply impactful manner. He is dedicated to guiding you towards success in the mountains.
Course Options
Gain the skills and confidence to safely navigate avalanche terrain with this immersive AIARE 1 experience. Whether you prefer the traditional hands-on approach or a blend of online and field learning, choose the format that best fits your schedule.
Option 1: Fully In‑Person Course
Format: 3 full days (24 hours), including classroom and field instruction
Structure:
Day 1: Indoor classroom in the morning, followed by light outdoor activity (9 AM–4:30 PM)
Days 2 & 3: Field days near Mount Washington with 2,000–4,000 ft elevation gain and 4–6 miles of travel per day (8 AM–4 PM)
Available Sessions:
January 9–11, 2026 (Friday–Sunday)
February 17–19, 2026 (Tuesday- Thursday)
Option 2: Hybrid Course
Format: Blends virtual learning with 2 field days
Structure:
Online Module: Self‑paced learning plus 3 hour live session covering core topics
Field Days (2): Focused hands‑on learning in the field (similar structure to in‑person days)
Benefits: Flexible online prep combined with immersive field experience—great for those balancing schedules or travel
Available Sessions:
December 27–28, 2025 (Saturday–Sunday) — Live online module on December 22nd 6pm- 9pm
March 7–8, 2026 (Saturday–Sunday) — Live online module on March 4th 6pm- 9pm
Why Choose Vertex Mountain Guides for your AIARE 1 Course?
At Vertex Mountain Guides, we believe avalanche education should be personal, hands-on, and led by the best in the industry. That’s why all of our AIARE 1 Avalanche Courses are taught by IFMGA-certified mountain guide Keith Moon, bringing the highest level of professional training, leadership, and decision-making experience to every course.
Expert-Led, Small-Group Learning
Unlike larger programs, our courses are capped at just 6 participants. This small class size ensures:
More one-on-one instruction
More time practicing essential rescue skills
A more supportive learning environment
Real-time feedback from one of the most experienced guides in the region
Whether you're new to avalanche safety or looking to sharpen your skills, our low-ratio courses are designed to maximize your time in the field and give you the confidence to make better decisions in avalanche terrain.
What You’ll Learn
Our AIARE-certified curriculum covers:
Identifying avalanche terrain and "red flag" warning signs
Snowpack observation and stability testing
Terrain selection and safe travel techniques
Companion rescue using beacon, shovel, and probe
Human factors and real-world decision frameworks
You’ll leave the course prepared to plan and execute your own backcountry tours with greater awareness and skill.
Why Vertex?
Led by an IFMGA-certified guide — the highest level of mountain guiding certification in the world
Max 6 students per course — so you’re never lost in a crowd
Mount Washington-based — learn in one of New England’s most iconic and challenging winter environments
All gear available — including beacon, shovel, and probe (rental assistance for ski kits)
Tailored support — we work with you based on your goals, background, and fitness level
We also offer rock climbing instruction and guided Mount Washington ascents, allowing you to build mountain skills year-round with the same trusted team.
Book With Confidence
Courses fill quickly — especially mid-winter — so we recommend booking up to 6 months in advance.
Ready to learn from the best in a focused, low-ratio setting? Get in touch to reserve your spot or ask us which format (in-person or hybrid) is right for you.
Booking Details
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Instruction with from AIARE course leader and IFMGA Guide.
We can provide beacon, shovel and probe if needed.
We have a small selection of ski touring kit. We will be in touch about borrowing our gear or pointing you in the direction for rentals.
Pre course check in and post course follow ups
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CLICK HERE for a detailed list of what you are responsible for bringing for a day of backcountry skiing.
In addition to the gear list for Backcountry skiing, you will need comfortable clothes for day 1 as well as note taking materials.
More details will come in a course welcome emails.
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This is a 3-day, 24-hour program.
You can expect each day to be roughly 8 hours.
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Day 1 we will meet at an indoor location.
Days 2 and 3 will be in the field, likely around Mount Washington.
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CLICK HERE to view our cancelation and weather polices.
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CLICK HERE to view answers to frequently asked questions.
Got Questions?
We’re here to help. Our FAQs or Gear Lists might have the information you’re seeking. But If you’re not finding the information you need, we’d be happy to help!
