UMA's Level 1 Refresher is a single-day, field-based review of key Level 1 concepts and skills. Given that Avi 1 is such an intense, 24-hour download of information, it's wise to brush-up annually! This compact course is well worth the cost and time. Focus is on information-gathering, appropriate terrain selection, and effective decision-making for Level 1 graduates.

Broadly experienced UMA guides share with students the practical tools they actually use to make consequential up and downhill route-finding decisions efficiently.

Learning Outcomes::

• Review of the types of Avalanche Problems and how to treat them
• Understanding scale of terrain; paths & specific features; mapping snow cover
• Relating current structure and layering in the snowpack to realistic tour planning
• Review of snow surface changes, metamorphism and formation of Persistent Weak Layers (facets, depth hoar, surface hoar)
• Understanding and correct use of most current snowpit practices: hardness, shears, tests (CT, ECT, PST, DTT)
• Effective interpretation of test results (strength, structure, propagation; red lights, lemons)
• Prioritizing snowpack tests and observations based on current snowpack issues
• Applying tests, terrain selection & decision-making skills to current avalanche problems
• Use of safe travel protocols & communication to mitigate human factor risks (group size, diversity & goals)
• Awareness of best backcountry practices in up and downhill travel & etiquette

How to Register:

• Register Online
• Call us at (801) 550 3986
• Email us