Included: An experienced, AIARE-certified guide(s) with extensive knowledge of the area A day of classroom education and 2 days in the field E-Learning materials and Student Manual for AIARE Level 1 (sent one month prior to course) Student manual and weather-proof AIARE field book Use of beacon, shovel and probe (if needed) Accommodation in the hut (2 nights) Meals (breakfast and dinner) Friends of CAIC Trailhead Membership Transportation from designated meeting place to the trailhead Not included: Technical backcountry ski touring equipment (can be rented directly from your guide) and clothing Alcoholic beverages Lunches Transportation to and from the designated meeting place Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout Guide gratuities — optional, 15-20% customary

How fit do I need to be?

In order to get the most of this AIARE Level 1 course at Sisters Cabin and given that it is physically demanding, you need to have a very good level of fitness. For your safety and the safety of other participants, you will need to disclose any relevant information about your health. While the information provided remains confidential, it is crucial for the guide’s use and may be shared with medical and/or rescue personnel in case of emergencies. These courses run on alpine touring skis or splitboard, your call. Before you show up, you should be comfortable on your setup and confident moving through steep blue to black terrain at the resort. Off-trail travel on ungroomed snow comes with the territory, so come prepared with the right gear. If you need to rent any gear, your guides can set you up, just leave us a note at checkout.

What if I’ve never backcountry skied before?

No prior backcountry experience is required to take this course. However, it is highly recommended that participants with touring gear have experience on their setup beforehand and feel comfortable in steep blue to black terrain at a ski resort. This familiarity will contribute to a smoother learning experience and help ensure a level of competence when venturing into the backcountry. The course is designed to introduce and educate participants on backcountry skiing or splitboarding, providing the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the terrain safely.

What do I need to bring?

For technical backcountry ski touring gear, you will need to bring: Alpine touring skis, telemark skis or splitboard with skins (can be rented) Touring boots and poles (can be rented) Avalanche safety equipment (can be rented): Digital, 3-antenna avalanche transceiver or beacon Lightweight snow shovel Avalanche probe For personal items, we recommend bringing: Helmet — optional Sunglasses or ski goggles Gloves and brimmed hat/visor Light gloves for uphill travel Wind and waterproof shell jacket with hood (Gore-Tex recommended) Ski pants (Gore-Tex recommended) Down jacket or vest Synthetic or wool base layers, underwear and socks 1L water bottle Thermos with a warm beverage — optional Sunscreen Daypack large enough to carry all items listed (a 40L backpack) Pillow case, sleeping bag, and head lamp (only for the Hut-Based Course) Camera — optional

Can I rent equipment?

All mandatory gear can be rented if you don’t have your own. You can rent: Avalanche safety pack, including backpack, beacon, shovel and probe directly from Colorado Adventure Guides at their Silverthorne, CO Basecamp (no additional fee) Alpine touring or telemark skis, touring boots and poles can be rented directly from Colorado Adventure Guides at their Silverthorne, CO Basecamp Splitboards can be rented directly from Colorado Adventure Guides at their Silverthorne, CO Basecamp Ski rental locations are in Silverthorne, CO and equipment should be picked up the night prior to your outing. If you need to rent gear, let us know and we can help make arrangements. You can rent your gear package upon booking at a discounted rate.

Can this tour be customized?

Although this tour is primarily designed as an AIARE Level 1 course, it offers flexibility to be adapted into different types of adventures. For instance, during the same dates, Sisters Cabin can be utilized to facilitate a traditional weekend hut-based backcountry trip or an introduction to hut trips. The latter option allows you to learn the intricacies of planning and organizing your own hut-based backcountry trip. If you are interested in embarking on this type of adventure with a group of fellow participants, please contact us to make the necessary arrangements. We are here to cater to your specific interests and preferences.

What’s the accommodation like?

Nestled amidst the captivating backcountry terrain near Silverthorne and Breckenridge, Sisters Cabin offers a unique blend of comfort and convenience in a remote setting. The cabin features three upstairs rooms with a total of 14 beds. It is reserved exclusively for one group, ensuring privacy and an intimate atmosphere. The cabin is well-equipped with amenities including propane cooktops, a propane oven, a wood-burning heat stove, firewood, cooking and eating utensils, mattresses, solar-powered lighting, indoor composting toilets, and a wood-burning sauna.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and pricing: For this group course, the max client to guide ratio is 6:1. Cost is per person and doesn’t decrease as the group grows. AIARE 1 courses in Summit County, CO can be arranged for larger/private groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors above the age of 16 may be permitted to join private tours on a case-by-case basis, but being a very good skier is a must. If your group has skiers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

To get to Summit County, most people fly into Denver International Airport just under 2 hours away from Summit County. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus. Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, they will suggest the best time and place to meet. The meeting place may be your guiding service’s basecamp in Silverthorne, CO, but you will receive more details in the weeks prior to the course dates that will include the exact meeting time and location.

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout. Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

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AIARE Level 1 Course at Sisters Cabin in Summit County.

SUMMIT COUNTY | COLORADO

Summit County AIARE 1 Course Based at Sisters Cabin

3 days | Easy to Moderate | 5.00

From $1,220 ()

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Learn the basics of avalanche safety while having a blast! Based at a premier backcountry in Colorado’s Summit County—Sisters Cabin—this immersive and comprehensive 3-day AIARE 1 course is made for gaining all the essential skills in an authentic backcountry setting. With over 24 hours of lessons, you’ll learn everything from mastering your safety gear to deciphering forecasts and planning your routes. Practice trip preparation, hazard decision-making, communication, and rescue techniques—while also gaining some insights into executing a backcountry hut trip. Picture yourself learning about snow safety while sipping tea or debriefing with a cold beer after a day spent in the field. Bond with fellow adventurers, savor delicious meals, and share stories by the cozy wood stove. Enroll now for an unparalleled course that combines guides’ expertise, carefully curated curriculum, and a winter wonderland setting.

Adventure Highlights

Immersive experience: Enjoy an immersive AIARE 1 program that combines avalanche safety with authentic backcountry setting
Additional insights: Gain valuable insights beyond avalanche safety, learning the ins and outs of backcountry hut trips
Comprehensive course: Go through a curriculum that covers all aspects of avalanche safety and risk management with +24 hours of lessons

Duration

3 days

Season

January and February

Group size

Up to 12 people

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

This hut-based AIARE 1 program at Sisters Cabin offers a comprehensive program with +24h of lessons and total immersion in the backcountry environment over 3 days. You will not only have a chance to learn about safety in avalanche terrain in the field (and in front of crackling fire), but you also get meals, as well as some useful insights on how to organize a backcountry hut trip. Needless to say, with this option the superb off-piste areas utilized during the field days are within arm’s reach!

Course overview

The AIARE 1 course in Summit County encompasses a comprehensive set of learning outcomes, divided into four key categories. The first category focuses on equipment proficiency, teaching efficient utilization of beacons, shovels, and probes, conducting thorough pre-trip equipment checks, and understanding essential survival gear. The next category delves into weather understanding, including comprehending mountain snowpack dynamics, interpreting avalanche forecasts, recognizing different avalanche classifications, and familiarizing oneself with various avalanche types. Trip preparation is another crucial aspect, covering route selection, rescue and emergency planning, and effective group management strategies. The final section emphasizes hazards and rescue, encompassing hazard recognition, risk management, decision-making skills, and companion risk assessment. These comprehensive learning outcomes will be covered through a minimum of 24 hours of instruction spread across three days, ensuring a thorough and immersive educational experience.

Pre-Trip Self-Paced Study

One month before the trip, you will receive various e-materials from your guide that will serve as a preparation for the upcoming AIARE 1 course. You can study the materials at your own pace and get a head start by learning useful information before the course itself.

Day 1: Classroom education

Participants of an AIARE 1 course during classroom education in the Sisters Cabin.

The first day of the course is reserved for classroom education. This will serve as a theoretical foundation for field education in the two following days. The classroom education will take place in the hut—once you and fellow participants settle in. You can expect 8 hours of classes which will consist of regular classroom presentations and trip planning lessons, as well as companion rescue.

Day 2: Field day

An avalanche education participant during an outdoor avalanche terrain rescue lesson near Sisters Cabin in Colorado’s Summit County.

Day 2 will resume with some more classroom education in the morning, followed by a field session where you’ll be learning how to make relevant observations in the field.

Day 3: Skill application

Backcountry skiers and AIARE 1 course participants skinning a slope in Colorado’s Summit County near Sisters Cabin.

Day 3 is arguably the most exciting one as it involves skill application in the field! The day will mostly consist of a student-led tour. Celebrate your achievements with fellow skiers and return to the guide’s basecamp in the afternoon.

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Photo gallery

Exterior of the Sisters Cabin, a backcountry cabin near Silverthorne and Breckenridge used for backcountry skiing trips.

Participants of an AIARE 1 course doing a lesson in the field in Summit County, CO.

Adventure, packed to go

Summit County AIARE 1 Course Based at Sisters Cabin

Adventure Brochure

Adventure brochure

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What others say about this adventure

5.00 (5 reviews)

Jeff Kirk

I took the Aiare level 1 course. These guy did a great job and made the course fun. I learned a ton and am confident in my new skills. I highly recommend them.

Jeff Orford

My 16-year-old son and I took an Avalanche 1 course. There were many things that were excellent, but the thing that sticks out in my mind is how respectfully the instructors spoke with my young man, it made the experience extra special for him.

Nathan Miller

I’ve been very impressed with CAG. I’ve taken a Avalanche education course and used them for guiding a ski tour. They run a very professional operation, seem very skilled, and generally are just nice people. I’d recommend them highly.

Show all reviews

Jeff Kirk

I took the Aiare level 1 course. These guy did a great job and made the course fun. I learned a ton and am confident in my new skills. I highly recommend them.

Jeff Orford

Nathan Miller

Dustin McQuate

Took the 3 day AIARE 1 course with Justin and Sunshine as my instructors. Both Justin and Sunshine were organized, extremely knowledgeable and did a great job of conveying the course material in a logical, easy to understand manner, during the classroom portion. We toured with each guide for a day and they were both terrific in the field. I especially appreciated that they employed just the right combination of instruction mixed with allowing the students to do for themselves. Both were always available to answer any and all of the many questions we had. Most importantly, I feel as though CAG gave me the tools and base knowledge to gain more experience on my own and to become safer in the BC. I’m sure Ill be heading back to CAG for more education/ guiding in the near future. I couldnt be happier with my experience with CAG.

Dylan B.

Professional, Knowledgable, and Fun

Justin and Sunshine were great! My partner and I took the AIARE 1 course with CAG in early December 2019. Both instructors were professional, friendly, knowledgeable and fun to be around. We took the 3 day course; day 1 was a classroom day with the next two as field days. Safety started before even being at the trailhead. Both Justin and Sunshine were able to give us concise comments when practicing in the event of a burial.
When searching on the AIARE website, CAG appeared to be the most affordable provider.
Overall, great instructors with great attitudes. 10/10 would recommend!

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced, AIARE-certified guide(s) with extensive knowledge of the area
  - A day of classroom education and 2 days in the field
  - E-Learning materials and Student Manual for AIARE Level 1 (sent one month prior to course)
  - Student manual and weather-proof AIARE field book
  - Use of beacon, shovel and probe (if needed)
  - Accommodation in the hut (2 nights)
  - Meals (breakfast and dinner)
  - Friends of CAIC Trailhead Membership
  - Transportation from designated meeting place to the trailhead
Not included:
- - Technical backcountry ski touring equipment (can be rented directly from your guide) and clothing
  - Alcoholic beverages
  - Lunches
  - Transportation to and from the designated meeting place
  - Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above
  - Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout
  - Guide gratuities — optional, 15-20% customary
In order to get the most of this AIARE Level 1 course at Sisters Cabin and given that it is physically demanding, you need to have a very good level of fitness. For your safety and the safety of other participants, you will need to disclose any relevant information about your health. While the information provided remains confidential, it is crucial for the guide’s use and may be shared with medical and/or rescue personnel in case of emergencies.

These courses run on alpine touring skis or splitboard, your call. Before you show up, you should be comfortable on your setup and confident moving through steep blue to black terrain at the resort. Off-trail travel on ungroomed snow comes with the territory, so come prepared with the right gear. If you need to rent any gear, your guides can set you up, just leave us a note at checkout.
No prior backcountry experience is required to take this course. However, it is highly recommended that participants with touring gear have experience on their setup beforehand and feel comfortable in steep blue to black terrain at a ski resort. This familiarity will contribute to a smoother learning experience and help ensure a level of competence when venturing into the backcountry. The course is designed to introduce and educate participants on backcountry skiing or splitboarding, providing the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the terrain safely.
For technical backcountry ski touring gear, you will need to bring:
- - Alpine touring skis, telemark skis or splitboard with skins (can be rented)
  - Touring boots and poles (can be rented)
  - Avalanche safety equipment (can be rented):
    
    Digital, 3-antenna avalanche transceiver or beacon
    
    Lightweight snow shovel
    
    Avalanche probe
For personal items, we recommend bringing:
- - Helmet — optional
  - Sunglasses or ski goggles
  - Gloves and brimmed hat/visor
  - Light gloves for uphill travel
  - Wind and waterproof shell jacket with hood (Gore-Tex recommended)
  - Ski pants (Gore-Tex recommended)
  - Down jacket or vest
  - Synthetic or wool base layers, underwear and socks
  - 1L water bottle
  - Thermos with a warm beverage — optional
  - Sunscreen
  - Daypack large enough to carry all items listed (a 40L backpack)
  - Pillow case, sleeping bag, and head lamp (only for the Hut-Based Course)
  - Camera — optional
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All mandatory gear can be rented if you don’t have your own. You can rent:
- - Avalanche safety pack, including backpack, beacon, shovel and probe directly from Colorado Adventure Guides at their Silverthorne, CO Basecamp (no additional fee)
  - Alpine touring or telemark skis, touring boots and poles can be rented directly from Colorado Adventure Guides at their Silverthorne, CO Basecamp
  - Splitboards can be rented directly from Colorado Adventure Guides at their Silverthorne, CO Basecamp
Ski rental locations are in Silverthorne, CO and equipment should be picked up the night prior to your outing. If you need to rent gear, let us know and we can help make arrangements. You can rent your gear package upon booking at a discounted rate.
Although this tour is primarily designed as an AIARE Level 1 course, it offers flexibility to be adapted into different types of adventures. For instance, during the same dates, Sisters Cabin can be utilized to facilitate a traditional weekend hut-based backcountry trip or an introduction to hut trips. The latter option allows you to learn the intricacies of planning and organizing your own hut-based backcountry trip. If you are interested in embarking on this type of adventure with a group of fellow participants, please contact us to make the necessary arrangements. We are here to cater to your specific interests and preferences.
Nestled amidst the captivating backcountry terrain near Silverthorne and Breckenridge, Sisters Cabin offers a unique blend of comfort and convenience in a remote setting. The cabin features three upstairs rooms with a total of 14 beds. It is reserved exclusively for one group, ensuring privacy and an intimate atmosphere. The cabin is well-equipped with amenities including propane cooktops, a propane oven, a wood-burning heat stove, firewood, cooking and eating utensils, mattresses, solar-powered lighting, indoor composting toilets, and a wood-burning sauna.
Group sizes and pricing:
- - For this group course, the max client to guide ratio is 6:1.
  - Cost is per person and doesn’t decrease as the group grows.
AIARE 1 courses in Summit County, CO can be arranged for larger/private groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors above the age of 16 may be permitted to join private tours on a case-by-case basis, but being a very good skier is a must.
If your group has skiers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to Summit County, most people fly into Denver International Airport just under 2 hours away from Summit County. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus.

Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, they will suggest the best time and place to meet. The meeting place may be your guiding service’s basecamp in Silverthorne, CO, but you will receive more details in the weeks prior to the course dates that will include the exact meeting time and location.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
To secure your spot, you’ll be asked to pay the full amount upon checkout.
- - If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued (unless the departure date is within 7 days at the time of booking).
  - If cancelled 7 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If cancelled within 7 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
  - Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period.

Have more questions?

Our team is here to answer your questions and plan with you.

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