avalanche courses
LOCATION: Mammoth Lakes, CA // Eastern Sierra
COURSE OUTING LENGTH: 3 DAYS (Optional Avalanche Rescue Add-On with AIARE L1 or L2)
Golden State Guiding is a proud provider of AIARE Level 1, Level 2 and Avalanche Rescue courses in Mammoth Lakes, located in the beautiful Eastern Sierra. If you are an avid backcountry skier, splitboarder, mountaineer, or simply enjoy getting out every weekend to tour around on some of your favorite local slopes, then our AIARE recreational course offerings are for you. Being trained and capable to identify potential avalanche hazards in various types of terrain and possessing the tools to facilitate a rescue in the event of an avalanche are key skills every backcountry traveler should possess. Educate yourself, get the training, and be prepared. Looking forward to a great season of avalanche education and training!
***Please note, all of our AIARE avalanche courses are not Intro to Backcountry courses. If you are new to traveling in the backcountry and are looking to learn the fundamental skills of backcountry skiing and splitboarding, please visit our Intro to Backcountry course page by clicking here.***
Dates Range from December through March - Look through our calendar & secure your spot!
AIARE LEVEL 1
AIARE LEVEL 2
AVALANCHE RESCUE
Private courses are also available for groups of 3 or more
Golden State Guiding is a proud provider of AIARE Level 1, Level 2 and Avalanche Rescue courses in Mammoth Lakes, located in the beautiful Eastern Sierra. If you are an avid backcountry skier, splitboarder, mountaineer, or simply enjoy getting out every weekend to tour around on some of your favorite local slopes, then our AIARE recreational course offerings are for you. Being trained and capable to identify potential avalanche hazards in various types of terrain and possessing the tools to facilitate a rescue in the event of an avalanche are key skills every backcountry traveler should possess. Educate yourself, get the training, and be prepared. Looking forward to a great season of avalanche education and training!
***Please note, all of our AIARE avalanche courses are not Intro to Backcountry courses. If you are new to traveling in the backcountry and are looking to learn the fundamental skills of backcountry skiing and splitboarding, please visit our Intro to Backcountry course page by clicking here.***
LOCATION: Mammoth Lakes, CA // Eastern Sierra
COURSE OUTING LENGTH: 3 DAYS (Optional Add-On with AIARE L1 or L2)
Dates Range from December through March - Look through our calendar & secure your spot!
AIARE LEVEL 1
AIARE LEVEL 2
AVALANCHE RESCUE
Private courses are also available for groups of 3 or more!
eastern sierra
California
Frequently Asked Questions
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We offer AIARE 1, AIARE 2, and Avalanche Rescue courses, plus private avalanche education for skiers and splitboarders.
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Most students begin with AIARE 1. Avalanche Rescue is an excellent first or recurring course, while AIARE 2 is for graduates ready to deepen their decision-making skills.
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Courses are primarily based in California’s Eastern Sierra, with field locations selected for current snow, weather, and avalanche conditions.
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You should be comfortable traveling on your skis or splitboard in ungroomed snow. Each course page lists its specific prerequisites.
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You will need appropriate touring equipment, a beacon, shovel, probe, and winter clothing. Review the course packing list and contact us about rentals or equipment questions.
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Yes. Our AIARE courses follow the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education curriculum and are taught by qualified instructors.

