IMG Avalanche Education in the Snowiest Place On Earth

November 10, 2016

The last of the leaves are falling from the trees, each morning is cooler than the last, and the air in the mountains has a crisp feel signaling the coming winter. For us here at IMG that means time to wax up those skis, break out the snowshoes, grab the big puffy, and head out into the winter wonderland that is our backyard. Having Paradise on Mt Rainier a short drive away, means we have access to one of the snowiest places on earth to get out in the mountains. Whether it’s a blue bird day or more snow is falling, we have the ability to get outside and enjoy this special season.

Folks frequently call our office inquiring about what programs IMG offers for winter travel. At the foundation of our winter programs on Rainier is our Avalanche Education program. These courses aren’t just designed for skiers or climbers, they are designed for all recreationists that want to get outside during the winter. So, whether you snowshoe or snowboard, ski or ice climb, these courses are built to help you develop skills as a winter mountain traveler. IMG is pleased to provide avalanche curriculum from the American Institute of Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE). AIARE is a leader in avalanche education in the US, with a keen focus on decision making and terrain use in the mountains.

This winter IMG is offering both AIARE level 1 and level 2 courses. The Level 1 is designed for winter travelers who want to learn how to develop sharp decision making skills, use terrain to increase safety, and expand their ability to understand the winter mountain environment. This three day course is based at our headquarters in Ashford, WA where we enjoy quick easy access to Paradise. IMG capitalizes on low instructor to student ratios (5:1) and excellent teaching terrain to provide an open and effective learning environment for all travel types. So, whether you’re new to backcountry skiing, an experienced snowshoer, or a long time resort rider, our learning format will meet your needs.

The AIARE level 2 course is designed for students who want to take their backcountry skills to more remote areas or into more complex terrain. This four day course focusses on understanding mountain weather and snowpack to develop informed opinions on avalanche hazard within the terrain. Building on the skills of the AIARE level 1 course, students will delve deeper into decision making and selecting terrain with appropriate safety margins that match our current hazard assessment.

All IMG course are taught by our AIARE certified instructors who have worked as avalanche forecasters, mountain and ski guides, professional ski patrollers, and educators. You’ll find small groups and lots of field time as we work together to enjoy the mountain environment in the winter. Come join as we celebrate winter on Mt Rainier

Dallas Glass