AIARE 1 Refresher

The skills you learned in your AIARE 1 course can fade over time. Keep them sharp to keep yourself and your group safe with the AIARE 1 Refresher Course. In a first-of-its-kind study conducted with Eastern Oregon University, AIARE tracked nearly 1,700 students across three winters and found that those who completed avalanche courses measurably increased the frequency of safe backcountry behaviors — including terrain selection, recognition of unstable conditions, and end-of-day decision review. The Refresher is designed to sustain and deepen that effect over time. If you’ve never taken a class together before, it’s also a great way to set expectations for your regular touring group.

Scheduled Program Cost - $275

Here’s What To Expect

Itinerary

The AIARE 1 Refresher is a one-day, field-based course out of the Baker Backcountry adjacent to the Mount Baker Ski Area. First, students will engage in online pre-course learning to review terrain management principles, communication strategies, and rescue fundamentals prior to field day. The field day is structured around the AIARE Decision-Making Framework.

Students plan and lead a backcountry tour under the guidance of a certified AIARE Instructor, applying each element of the framework in real terrain and conditions. Prior to getting out on the tour, students will also engage in a short hands-on refinement of beacon search, probing, and shoveling given current rescue best practices. After the tour, students leave with a structured plan for continuing their avalanche education through the season and beyond.

Trip Details

Ratio

1-6 Guests Per Guide

Season

December - February

Duration

1 Day

Skill level

Beginner +

Program Rates

Scheduled Program Cost - $275

Program Cost Includes: AIARE Field Book, access to online learning.

Program Cost Does NOT Include: Transportation to and from course.

Reviews

• Over 100 5 star reviews!

“Climbing with CMA was a true reflection of mindful mountaineering. As a female mountain lover, I’m used to being the only lady in a group of dudes. Sometimes that doesn’t feel 100% comfortable, particularly when you feel like it’s all about the grind, no emotions allowed. With CMA I felt that I was part of a big bear hug of awesomeness. Guides often set the tone for the team, and Zack set a tone of kindness and respect for everyone. When the going got tough, his humor lightened the mood without jeopardizing the seriousness of what we doing. I will definitely be climbing with CMA again!”

“- Adrienne”

“They do the essentials really well: they’re professional, knowledgeable and competent, great teachers, and always keep an eye on safety as every guide service must. What sets them apart for me is that they do all that AND make it FUN. Some of the best times I’ve ever had in the mountains are with this crew. I highly recommend them!”

“- Chase”

“I hired this guide crew for technical education and then returned for their recreational guiding services. I’ll continue to lean on Cascade Mountain Ascents to bring me further into the backcountry and advance my technical skills in the mountains.”

“- Blake”

“Cascade Mountain Ascents is seriously raising the bar for avalanche education—Fun-loving, inclusive, knowledgable, fantastic educators, and all around stellar folks! I would absolutely recommend taking a course or spending a weekend in the mountains CMA!”

“- Maggie”

“Zack and Cascade Mountain Ascents is the best choice for your adventure no matter your skill level. From beginner to seasoned pro, Zack has you covered. His knowledge and skills of all-terrain and mountain situations had us feeling safe and confident all the way.”

“- Adrian”

“I’ve taken courses with the guides at CMA as well as gotten personal goals accomplished. Each time I’ve come away more competent, more confident, and inspired to take what I’ve learned into my next outing.”

“- BRENNAN”

“Fifth time out there with Zack – and as always it was spectacular. Zack‘s calm guiding style – paired with perfect preparation and route planning – push you without ever overwhelming personal abilities and strength. Countless successfully climbed peaks and everlasting memories are the rewards.”

“- WOLFGANG”

“I have skied with all of the guides at CMA and have had great experiences. They are passionate about their craft, and it shows in the experiences they provide. They know where to find the best skiing and have extensive knowledge of the local terrain.”

“- PATRICK”

Skill Levels

Ski & Ride

Beginner

I’ve never (or only a handful of times) toured in the backcountry before.

Intermediate

I’ve toured a bit and been exposed to a variety of conditions in the backcountry.

Advanced

I’m a strong rider with at least a few seasons of experience touring in the backcountry riding a variety of conditions.

Expert

Skiing/Riding is life. I tour in the backcountry 60+ days per year and have many years of experience.

Alpine

Beginner

I’ve never (or only a handful of times) been alpine climbing before.

Intermediate

I’ve climbed a bit on snow as well as rock and understand the basics.

Advanced

I’m a strong climber with at least a few years of experience climbing snow, rock, and ice.

Expert

Climbing is life. I have many years of experience climbing big mountain objectives in steep variable terrain.

Rock

Beginner

I’ve never (or only a handful of times) been outdoor rock climbing before.

Intermediate

I’ve climbed a few outdoor multi-pitch rock climbs as a follower and understand the basics.

Advanced

I’m a strong climber with at least a few years of experience climbing multi-pitch routes outside (sometimes on lead).

Expert

Climbing is life. I have many years of experience climbing and am comfortable leading up to 5.9 trad.