We offer a full range of American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) courses through our White Pine Touring guiding service to help backcountry enthusiasts develop the skills and knowledge needed to travel safely in the mountains during the winter months. Our strict ratio of six students per instructor ensures a personal and engaged learning experience for every course participant.
Shaun Deutschlander | Thousand Peaks Ranch, UTWhether you ski, snowboard, or snowshoe, our AIARE avalanche courses are designed to give you the skills and educated confidence you need to safely enjoy your time in the backcountry. Our AIARE qualified instructors have years of experience in the Wasatch and Uinta Mountains, and have travelled the world in search of the unique snowpack and climates that have broadened their knowledge base. Whether you’re just starting to entertain the idea of out-of-bounds adventure, or you’re looking to assume a leadership role in your backcountry travels, there is an AIARE course for you. Check out our offerings below for specific information on course itineraries, student learning outcomes and course outlines.
Our Avalanche Education Program was developed by International Federation of Mountain Guides Association (IFMGA) certified guide, Freddy Grossniklaus. Beginning in 2000, Freddy worked closely with AIARE to develop the curricula for the current AIARE 1, 2 and 3 courses.
In 2002, White Pine Touring was approached by Freddy as a trusted partner that could address the insurance and logistical concerns hindering his efforts. At the start of the 2004 winter season, Freddy began mentoring current Avalanche Education Program Director, Scott House, and the two worked closely to develop an extensive and sustainable avalanche education program. Soon after, White Pine Touring became an official AIARE course provider – a distinction they hold to this day.
Ortovox has supplied all of the high-end avalanche safety gear used by White Pine Touring instructors and students. This generous support from Ortovox ensures students get to practice with the best, most current equipment on the market, and that White Pine Touring’s instructors have the most dependable, professional-level avalanche safety equipment available.
Arc'teryx has outfitted all of White Pine Touring’s avalanche instructors with backcountry-ready uniforms, ensuring that they are able to stay warm, dry, and focused on teaching during long days in the mountains.
Park City Powder Cats provides the White Pine Touring’s AIARE Avalanche Education Program with access to 30,000+ acres of private teaching terrain in the Uinta Mountains.
