Helpful Resources

Avalanche Forecast

Explore this avalanche forecast page to gain information on weather activity in your area.

How to Read an Avalanche Forecast

It is equally important to know how to read an avalanche forecast as it is to look at one. Use this quick guide to learn what you should be looking for when exploring the avalanche forecast website.

Avalanche Safety Courses

REI and regional avalanche centers such as the Northwest Avalanche Center offer low-cost courses on avalanche safety and awareness. It is a good idea to take one of these courses before taking a trip to the backcountry.

There are a lot of educational opportunities available to match your goals and comfort level. You may want more formal training. The American Avalanche Association, a nonprofit that sets the standards for avalanche education in the U.S., endorses a course progression for recreationists that starts with an avalanche awareness class and moves to more advanced courses that include hours in the field and classroom.

Avalanche Rescue Basics

It is important to know what to do in the event of an avalanche. Use this article to learn more about avalanche rescue and response.

A Beginners Guide to Backcountry Skiing

Use this helpful video to summarize the basics of equipment, safety and weather situations while going backcountry.

Avalanche Types and Their Trigger Mechanisms

Use this helpful video to learn about the different types of snow fall and the avalanche risks they create.