Snowpack Structure
Snowpack Structure
Snow Science & Field Observations
Analyzing Snow Instability
Refine your pit techniques and sharpen your observational skills to interpret the snowpack with greater confidence and clarity. This field-based course builds on foundational Level 1 Decision Making in Avalanche Terrain knowledge and deepens your understanding of mountain snowpack structure. You’ll gain hands-on experience with snowpit construction, layer identification, and standardized documentation methods. Refine previously taught techniques and develop more tools to track layers across terrain. These skills can help you verify the local forecast and steer you to quality conditions. Ideal for recreational backcountry travelers, aspiring guides, and those preparing for a Rec Level 2 or Pro 1 course.
LEARNING OUTCOMES . . .
Snowpit Construction: Select appropriate pit locations, dig clean and efficient snowpits, refine snowpit craftsmanship
Layer Identification: Identify and analyze snowpack layers, assess hardness and grain type, and distinguish between persistent and non-persistent weak layers
Documentation: Record and interpret snow profiles using standardized stratigraphy and snowpack documentation methods
Instability Tests: Perform relevant instability tests including the Compression Test (CT), Extended Column Test (ECT), Propagation Saw Test (PST), and Deep Tap Test (DT)
Avalanche Mechanics: Understand the stages of slab avalanche formation, including initiation, propagation, and release, and relate these processes to field observations and snowpack data
PREREQUISITES . . .
Skiers and splitboarders should be confident in their downhill ability and comfortable on blue and easy black in-bounds terrain
Snowshoers should be comfortable hiking 2 to 5 miles a day
Participants must have a certificate of completion from an A3-approved Recreational Level 1 course; there is no time limit on this prerequisite
A rescue course is not required; however, we encourage all backcountry users to take a rescue course regularly
Students should have at least 8+ days of backcountry travel experience applying a decision-making framework after completing their A3-approved Recreational Level 1 course and before enrolling in this Snowpack Structure course
Students should gain at least one season or 30+ days of backcountry travel experience between AIARE 1 and AIARE 2
AIARE 1 and Avalanche Rescue are also prerequisites for aspiring professionals looking to take a Pro 1 course
EQUIPMENT . . .
Alpine Touring Setup (Available for Rent)
Splitboard (Available for Rent)
Snowshoes (Available for Rent)
Avalanche Gear: Beacon, Shovel, Probe (Available for Rent)
A detailed gear list will be sent in your welcome email about two weeks before the course begins
LOGISTICS . . .
Be prepared for three full days of learning
You’ll be in both indoor and outdoor classroom settings, with time spent sitting, standing, and moving in variable conditions
Need a place to stay? Check out our Local Lodging Partners, your confirmation email will include discount codes for participating locations
Here are our favorite local places to eat and drink in Buena Vista, CO
Max CLIENT TO GUIDE RATIO . . .
6 Clients : 1 Guide
