01/30/2026
Jones Pass Guides is now offering 2 dates for Avalanche Awareness Field Days - Feb 8th & Feb 15th.
Sign up here - https://book.peek.com/s/295b6911-141e-4a5b-96a2-db49007cb1a0/9RgLq?mc_cid=2b14520340&mc_eid=237f9066e3
Focus of the Day:
Understanding the Forecast: We will walk you step-by-step through the CAIC Avalanche Forecast, explaining the basic concepts of avalanche problems and how to use the danger scale to plan your day safely.
Basic Terrain Recognition: Enhance your awareness by learning simple route-finding strategies and identifying which types of terrain to avoid.
Introduction to the Snowpack: We’ll take a look at the current snow structure with explanations of how the snowpack formed and what that means for the avalanche hazard.
Spotting Trigger Points: We’ll look at and discuss trigger points, their locations, implications and how to avoid them.
Essential Rescue Skills: Get a practical, field-based introduction to small team avalanche rescue, learning how to use your beacon, shovel, and probe effectively.
Simple Map Reading: We’ll coach you on how to read a topographic map and associate what you see on the map with what you see in the terrain.
Group Safety & Communication: We discuss basic group dynamics and communication skills to encourage safe decision making during a recreational outing.
Making Observations: Understand the importance of watching the weather and snow, and how to report simple field observations to the CAIC.
Rip Some Turns & Debrief: Ski the terrain and discuss the importance of a quality debrief.
Required Equipment
Skis or split-board with touring skins.
30L or larger backcountry backpack.
Avalanche beacon (must be a modern 3 antenna model)
Probe
Shovel
Note: Jones Pass Guides can lend you a beacon, shovel, and probe if you do not have your own. 6 students minimum required to hold the course. Book Now.
Course Foundation:
This curriculum is based on the American Avalanche Association (A3) online curriculum and has been professionally modified for field application by certified instructors.
