SILVERTHORNE WALKING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Three Days on the Continental Divide: AIARE Level 1 Avalanche Training from Silverthorne
A three-day AIARE Level 1 course that pairs expert classroom instruction with hands-on field training and complimentary Ortovox safety gear—this guide lays out what to expect and how to prepare.
Three Days on the Continental Divide: AIARE Level 1 Avalanche Training from Silverthorne.
Adventure brief
Three Days on the Continental Divide: AIARE Level 1 Avalanche Training from Silverthorne
Set against the high, wind-scoured ridges of Colorado's continental divide, this immersive three-day AIARE Level 1 Avalanche Course combines expert-led classroom sessions with practical field work. Students move from lectures to on-snow exercises, learning vital avalanche-safety skills and using complimentary Ortovox safety gear as they practice real‑world decision making.
Embark on a transformative three-day journey with Colorado Adventure Guides on the AIARE Level 1 Avalanche Safety Course, set against the dramatic backdrop of Colorado's continental divide near Silverthorne. This comprehensive course blends expert-led classroom instruction with hands-on field exercises, ensuring you develop practical avalanche safety skills essential for backcountry exploration. Throughout the course, you'll gain proficiency in terrain analysis, snowpack evaluation, and rescue techniques, all while using complimentary state-of-the-art Ortovox safety gear. Whether you're a passionate winter hiker, snowboarder, or backcountry skier, this training is vital for enhancing your judgment and decision-making in snowy mountain environments. The course's immersive format encourages collaboration and real-world application, preparing you to confidently navigate avalanche terrain and keep yourself and your group safe. Experience the Colorado high country’s breathtaking winter landscapes as you build critical knowledge and skills alongside seasoned instructors with years of backcountry expertise. This intimate private course is tailored for those who value personalized instruction and safety in the outdoors, making it the perfect stepping stone for advancing your avalanche education and backcountry confidence.
Route Schematic
Course Schematic: Classroom to Field
The schedule alternates focused classroom sessions with on‑ski or on‑snow field exercises to build and reinforce avalanche‑safety skills.
Day 1 — Classroom Foundations
Introductory classroom sessions covering core avalanche concepts and safety skills.
Day 2 — Field Training
Hands‑on field training where students practice beacon searches, probing, and companion rescue using provided Ortovox gear.
Day 3 — Consolidation & Application
Consolidation of classroom learning and field techniques with scenario‑based practice to apply skills in realistic settings.
Participants should be prepared to engage in both classroom instruction and hands‑on field training across the three‑day program.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Training on the Continental Divide
The course unfolds along Colorado's continental divide, giving participants direct exposure to the terrain and conditions that make avalanche education essential.
Expert‑Led Classroom Sessions
Structured classroom instruction forms the foundation of the course, delivering the concepts and frameworks students then apply in the field.
Hands‑On Field Training with Ortovox
Field days emphasize practical skills and real‑world application; the program supplies Ortovox safety gear so students can practice with industry‑standard equipment.
What the day feels like
What Three Days of AIARE 1 Feels Like
The rhythm is deliberate: classroom blocks introduce avalanche theory and decision frameworks, then students take those lessons into the field to practice companion rescue, beacon searches, and risk assessment. Over three days the curriculum moves from fundamentals to applied scenarios so participants leave with tangible, practiced skills.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this course fits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is an immersive, three‑day AIARE Level 1 course.
The program provides complimentary Ortovox safety gear for hands‑on practice.
The curriculum alternates classroom instruction with field work focused on real‑world application along Colorado’s continental divide.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the AIARE Level 1 course?
The course is an immersive three‑day program.
What will I learn in the course?
Participants complete classroom sessions and hands‑on field training to learn vital avalanche safety skills and practical application.
Is safety gear provided?
Yes — the course supplies complimentary Ortovox safety gear for the hands‑on portions of training.
Where does the training take place?
Training takes place along Colorado’s continental divide in the Silverthorne area, combining classroom and field locations.
Who runs the course?
The program is operated by Colorado Adventure Guides.
Is the course suitable for beginners?
Yes; the course is described as perfect for anyone eager to explore the backcountry safely and is structured to teach foundational avalanche skills.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-10T12:13:21.123Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.