Friends of GNFAC: Avalanche Fundamentals Livingston Classroom + Field day at Mill Creek
This course is in partnership with Park County Environmental Council
Avalanche Fundamentals is an introduction to avalanche basics.
It covers the basics of weather observations, snowpack development, avalanche terrain identification, travel techniques and companion rescue.
THIS IS A TWO PART COURSE! Please read description below to learn more. This course is open to the public and will be trailhead based, we welcome people with a variety of experience and ability to come learn more about avalanche safety!
What you will learn:
- Beacon Use- how to properly use an avalanche transceiver ( beacon) for avalanche rescue
- Avalanche Terrain Recognition- understand where avalanche occur
- Avalanche Conditions- learn about weather and snowpack factors that contribute to avalanche formation
- Companion Rescue- practice techniques needed to find and dig out someone buried in and avalanche!
Ability Requirements
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Participants must have the preparedness to be outside for the entire day and take care of themselves in winter conditions with adequate layers, hydration and fueling.
- Ability to travel short distances uphill from the parking lot, either by skinning with touring equipment or boot-packing/ snowshoeing
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Touring skis/ split board with skins are recommended, boot packing or snowshoeing is ok!
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Basic knowledge of your gear is required, but we will review uphill travel with skins if it’s a new skill. All gear must have retention devices or brakes to ride the lifts at Bridger Bowl. Touring equipment is NOT REQUIRED.
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Ability to carry a day backpack, bend up and down repeatedly, twist, and shovel snow
Equipment Requirements
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Modern, 3 antenna beacon with fresh batteries
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Avalanche Shovel (These are metal and specific to digging/chopping in firm, icy snow, extendable handles are strongly encouraged)
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Avalanche Probe (At least 240cm or more)
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If you are planning to use skis or snowboards to travel, bring that equipment, otherwise plan to wear warm winter boots and be prepared to walk/ stand in snow for the day!
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Small backpack with required gear, layers, food and water
- If equipment is a barrier for you, we have limited loaners for avalanche rescue gear available and do not want gear to be a reason to not participate in learning! Please contact Friends of GNFAC directly to inquire about equipment.