Motorized AIARE Level 2
Motorized AIARE 2 is a 24-hour course that provides backcountry riders an opportunity to advance their decision making skills in more complicated situations with respect to traveling in avalanche terrain - such as being the leader of group, riding in complex terrain, and developing a plan where resources are scarce.
This course builds on the backcountry decision making process introduced in AIARE 1 and adds to it the evaluation of critical hazard assessment factors with more focus on weather, snowpack, avalanche processes, and how these topics relate to observations and riding in avalanche terrain. This course is essential for any backcountry snowmobiler or snow biker who's skills and aspirations are taking them to more complicated terrain.
AIARE 1 + Avalanche Rescue (or equivalents) are a prerequisite for this course.
- taken an AIARE 1 (recommended) or AAA approved Level 1 + AIARE or AAA Avalanche Rescue prior to course date
- a winter of practical experience after AIARE 1 prior to this course
- snowmobile or snow bike (reliable and appropriate for mountain riding)
- avalanche rescue gear (digital avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe)
- backpack (airbag pack optional)
- appropriate riding gear and extra layers for a full day on the snow
- ability to ride off trail in varied terrain and deep snow
- a Wyoming State trails sticker (or required trail passes for riding area)
- transportation to and from classroom and field locations with your machine
During an AIARE 2 course, you’ll spend time learning these skills, both in a classroom setting and in the field:
- Differentiating where specific avalanche hazards exist within the landscape
- Identifying avalanche terrain where consequences may be more severe
- Using and interpreting weather, snow, and avalanche observations to make more specific terrain decisions
- Leadership skills to use in a small team, including facilitating small group discussion, promoting appropriate terrain selection, and utilizing simple risk management strategies
