Hands-On Backcountry Safety Training in the Wasatch Mountains
Gain the knowledge, confidence, and decision-making skills to travel safely in avalanche terrain. The School of International Expedition Training’s Avalanche Level 1 course offers small-group instruction led by AMGA/IFMGA Certified Mountain Guides, blending classroom learning with full field days in Utah’s backcountry. The American Avalanche Association endorses all of our Avalanche Courses and are equivalent to an AIARE 1 avalanche course.
Enroll Now — Limited Seats Available
Course Details
| Duration | 2 full days + 1 evening check-in |
| Location | Wasatch Range — field sessions near Sandy, UT |
| Group Size | Max 18 students per course |
| Instructors | AAA Pro Members, AMGA-trained |
| Price | $600 per person |
| Prerequisites | Basic backcountry travel experience |
| Equipment | Beacon, shovel, probe, touring setup (gear list provided) |
Upcoming Course Dates
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- Dec 6-7 (with an evening check-in at 7pm on Dec 3)
- Dec 13-14 (with an evening check-in 7pm on Dec 10)
- Jan 3-4 (with an evening check-in at 7pm on Tuesday, Dec 30)
- Jan 10-11 (with an evening check-in 7pm on Jan 7)
- Jan 17-18 (with an evening check-in 7pm on Jan 14)
- Jan 31- Feb 1 (with an evening check-in 7pm on Jan 28)
- Feb 14-15 (with an evening check-in 7pm on Feb 11)
- Feb 21-22 (with an evening check-in 7pm on Feb 18)
- Other dates and private courses available upon request.
Note: Each session limited to 12 participants (1 instructor per 6 students). This avalanche level 1 course will have 2 field sessions on Saturday and Sunday (7-8 hours each day), a virtual check-in via Zoom the Wednesday before the field dates, and about 8 hours of online e-learning modules that you can complete at your own pace anytime before the course begins. Please note this course has prerequisites, see below for details.
*“Only 3 spots left — register today!”
Reserve Your Seat:
What You’ll Learn
Avalanche Awareness and Terrain Management
Understand how avalanches form, recognize red flags, and evaluate slope conditions in real-world terrain.
Trip Planning & Route Selection
Learn to read maps, interpret weather forecasts, and choose safer travel routes.
Rescue Techniques
Hands-on companion rescue using beacons, probes, and shovels — practice real-time scenarios.
Snowpack Observation
Develop skills for snow stability analysis, pit digging, and documentation.
Enroll Now — Choose Your Dates
Why Choose Expedition Training?
- Smaller groups = more hands-on time. (1:6 instructor ratio ensures personalized feedback.)
- Locally based in the Wasatch. Learn from instructors who know the terrain.
- Professional certification. Led by AMGA/IFMGA Certified Mountain Guides with decades of field experience.
- Focused curriculum. No “cookie-cutter” franchised material — real decision-making, not just memorization.
Meet Your Instructors
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JoshAMGA-trained guide, AAA Pro Member, and lead instructor with 20+ years of mountain experience. |
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Nate Furman, PhDInstructor, Board Member, Program Advisor for SIET, AMGA Certified Rock Guide |
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Marisol Sullivan, PT, DPTInstructor, Logistics Coordinator, Board Member |
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Jed PorterInstructor, IFMGA/AMGA Certified Mountain Guide |
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Kell Rossiter, PhDInstructor, AMGA/IFMGA Certified Mountain Guide |
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Brian SmithInstructor, IFMGA/AMGA Certified Mountain Guide |
What Past Students Say
SIET opened my eyes to the world of expedition climbing. It helped me to understand what climbing safely and successfully in the big mountains requires. It showed me the level I need to reach to achieve my goals in climbing and skiing.
Ethan Judd |
My favorite aspect of the program was its immersive nature. Spending nearly a month in a foreign country, living, learning, and climbing with a small group was pivotal to absorbing as much as I could of the vast knowledge-base of our instructors. Before committing to an alpine climbing program, I evaluated dozens of options, and I have no doubt that I made the right choice with SIET.
Rich Murray |
My SIET trip was an experience of a lifetime and an adventure I will never forget. I have learned climbing and rescue skills that are now essential to my life outside. Thank you SIET for helping me progress to a new level in the adventures I pursue!
Neil Seifert |
Frequently Asked Questions
What if weather conditions change?
If a major storm or unsafe avalanche danger prevents field sessions from running as planned, we’ll adjust the schedule or relocate to a safer area. You’ll be notified of any changes in advance. It is possible the course may be cancelled due to bad weather, and trip insurance is advised.
What should I bring?
Beacon, shovel, probe, touring setup (gear list provided)
Can I reschedule if I can’t make my date?
If you need to cancel 60 days prior to the course, you will be given a full refund. Cancelations that occur after 60 days will not receive a refund.
How physically demanding is the course?
Students must be able to comfortably ski/board a ‘blue square’ run in western resorts in any condition, including powder, crust, chunder, etc. You must also be fit enough to climb 1,500-2,000 feet of vertical per day and still have the energy to ski/board back down.
Do I need avalanche experience beforehand?
No prior avalanche experience is required. This course is designed for backcountry skiers, snowboarders, and climbers who are new to avalanche education or want a refresher before taking higher-level training.
