AIARE 2 is a 3 day course that provides backcountry travelers an opportunity to advance their decision making skills in more complicated situations such as being a leader within a small travel group, traveling in more complicated terrain, and/or developing a travel plan where resources are scarce. AIARE 2 builds on the introductory avalanche hazard management model introduced in the AIARE 1 and adds to it the evaluation of critical hazard assessment factors. Students will describe and discuss weather, snowpack and avalanche processes, and identify how these processes relate to observations and travel within avalanche terrain.
The Synnott Mountain Guides AIARE classes are led by Mark Synnott (AMGA/IFMGA Mountain Guide) and Nick Aiello-Popeo (AIARE 3 Certified & AIARE Instructor). Mark, Nick, and the other instructors are able to not only teach the AIARE standard curriculum, but also draw on their own personal experiences and passion for avalanche awareness to prepare you for your own adventures.
Avalanche safety equipment (transceiver/shovel/probe) will be provided by SMG for use during the course (however, you are encouraged to bring your own). Please note that in order to take AIARE 2, an AIARE 1 course (or equivalent Level 1 training) and the AIARE Avalanche Rescue course is required. A winter of practical experience is also highly recommended before taking the AIARE 2 course. You may book multiple people and pay in one order, but please complete this booking form for each person so we have full details. After booking your course, you’ll receive an email with details about the course schedule, online learning, the Zoom meeting/training, and other resources.
To find out about the 2024/2025 season AIARE 2 course, please sign up for our email list, follow us on Facebook/Instagram, or contact us.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Differentiate where specific avalanche hazards exist within the landscape and identify avalanche terrain where consequences may be more severe.
- Use and interpret weather, snow, and avalanche observations to locate appropriate terrain prior to entering and while in the field.
- Demonstrate leadership skills within a small team that include facilitating small group discussion, promoting appropriate terrain selection, and utilizing simple risk management strategies.
- Implement a basic forecasting framework that can be used in conjunction with and in the absences of local supporting avalanche information.
Prerequisites
- Participants must have the ability to travel in avalanche terrain.
- An AIARE 1 Course (strongly recommended) or equivalent Level 1 training is required.
- A winter of practical experience after the Level 1 course is highly recommended before taking the AIARE 2 course.
- AIARE or AAA approved one-day Avalanche Rescue Course.
Our winter 2023/2024 AIARE 2 course is taking place on February 23-25, 2024 (Friday – Sunday). These three days will be in the mountains and we’ll have an online meeting (via Zoom) on February 21.
What is your COVID-19 policy?
We will be continually monitoring the changing COVID-19 situation and will let you know about COVID-19 guidelines when we reach out about course specifics.
How large will groups be?
Our field groups typically consist of seven people, including the instructor. Private courses are available if you inquire very early in the season, and pricing will vary.
Please see the SMG AIARE Gear List (PDF).
We will supply you with beacon, probe and shovel, but if you have your own, please let us know. You will also be receiving from us an AIARE Field Book and the AIARE 2 Student Manual.
