Utah Avalanche Courses in the Wasatch Mountains
AIARE Avalanche Courses With Red River Adventures
Red River Adventures‘ Utah avalanche courses are AIARE courses taught by experienced ski and split board guides that are both AIARE providers and AMGA certified split or ski guides. These individuals are not only expert guides but are also excellent instructors who have, themselves, been through extensive course work and examination.
AIARE Avalanche Rescue
- Difficulty – Easy
- Days -1 day
- Minimum age – 10
- Venues – Big & Little Cottonwood Canyons
- Meets – 8:00 AM
- Dates – December-March click Book Now
- 1 Person $235
Check availability and Book online now!
The AIARE Avalanche Rescue is a one-day / 8-hour course intended to teach the current best practices in rescue techniques and gear.
New participants will learn the basics of companion rescue while returning participants will expand their skill set with advanced topics and realistic scenario practice to help improve their skills.
Each participant will have the opportunity to receive professional coaching on their rescue skills and will receive a rescue card acknowledging the completion date.
Learning outcomes
At the end of the Avalanche Rescue course the student should be able to:
- Describe what to do if they or a member of their party is caught in an avalanche.
- Identify and be able to use gear necessary for avalanche rescue.
- Set up a realistic scenario in order to practice an avalanche rescue response.
- Improve their response skills and times during and after the course with feedback from instructors and peers.
- Develop a plan for continuing practice.
Who Should Take This Course
AIARE Avalanche Rescue can be taken either before or after other AIARE Courses.
Students who have previously taken an AIARE 1 or an Avalanche Rescue Course will find value in having a professional help them set up realistic scenarios, practice skills in a realistic setting, receive feedback from an instructor, keep up with current best practices, and have an opportunity to practice advanced rescue skills.
AIARE 1 Avalanche Education
- Difficulty – Easy-Moderate | Vert. 1500+ & 3 miles
- Days – 3 days
- Minimum age – 10
- Venues – Big & Little Cottonwood Canyons
- Meets – Virtual meet up 5PM day 1
- Dates – December-March click Book Now
- WOMEN ONLY dates!
- 12/12/2025, 1/2/2026, 1/23/2026, 2/20/2026
- 1 Person $645
Check availability and Book online now!
The AIARE 1 is a three-day / 24-hour introduction to avalanche hazard management.
Who Should Take This Course
The AIARE 1 is for skiers and snowboarders who want to recreate in or near avalanche terrain. Participants may have attended some awareness classes or workshops or completed the Avalanche Rescue course, but none are a prerequisite for this course.
Students can expect to develop a good grounding in how to prepare for and carry out a backcountry trip; to understand basic decision-making while in the field; and to learn techniques required to find and rescue a buried person, if an avalanche occurs and someone in the party is caught.
Learning outcomes
*Develop a plan for travel in avalanche terrain.
*Demonstrate the ability to identify avalanche terrain.
*Effectively use the AIARE Decision Making Framework to make terrain choices in a group setting
*Demonstrate effective companion rescue.
Aspiring professionals will need to take the AIARE 1 and Avalanche Rescue as a prerequisite for the Pro 1 course.
LOW RATIO – AIARE 1 Avalanche Education
- Difficulty – Moderate | Vert. 3k+
- Days – 3 days
- Minimum age – 10
- Venues – Big & Little Cottonwood Canyons
- Meets – Virtual meet up 5PM day 1
- Dates – 1/09/2026, 1/23/2026
- 1 Person $750
Check availability and Book online now!
Our LOW RATIO AIARE 1 is a three-day / 24-hour exploration of avalanche hazard management. It is intended for those that have multiple years of touring experience,
good fitness, downhill ability and a command of touring equipment.
Who Should Take This Course
Our LOW RATIO AIARE Level 1 is for skiers and riders that have already acquired backcountry experience and now want to add accredited avalanche training to the quiver. Participants must have previous touring experience, good fitness and downhill ability and a command of how their touring equipment works. Participants should have the ability to ski 3000+ vertical feet a day, ride black diamond terrain in any condition and transition quickly.
Students can expect to expand on and further develop skills to prepare for and carry out a backcountry trip; to understand decision-making while in the field; and to learn techniques required to find and rescue a buried person, if an avalanche occurs and someone in the party is caught.
Learning outcomes
*Develop a plan for travel in avalanche terrain.
*Demonstrate the ability to identify avalanche terrain.
*Effectively use the AIARE Decision Making Framework to make terrain choices in a group setting
*Demonstrate effective companion rescue.
Aspiring professionals will need to take the AIARE 1 and Avalanche Rescue as a prerequisite for the Pro 1 course.
AIARE 2 Avalanche Education
- Difficulty – Easy-Moderate | Vert. varies
- Days – 3 days
- Minimum age – 10
- Venues – Big & Little Cottonwood Canyons
- Meets – 8:00 AM
- 1 Person $800
The AIARE 2 is a three-day/24-hour course that provides backcountry travelers an opportunity to advance their decision-making skills in more complicated situations such as: being a leader within a small travel group; traveling in more complicated terrain; and/or developing a travel plan where online resources are scarce.
Check availability and Book online now!
Learning outcomes
*Differentiate where specific avalanche hazards exist within the landscape and identify avalanche terrain where consequences may be more severe.
*Use and interpret weather, snow, and avalanche observations to locate appropriate terrain prior to entering and while in the field.
*Demonstrate leadership skills within a small team that include facilitating small group discussion, promoting appropriate terrain selection, and utilizing simple risk-management strategies.
*Implement a basic forecasting framework that can be used in conjunction with and in the absence of local supporting avalanche information.
The AIARE 2 is a three-day course for those who have taken an AIARE 1 and Avalanche Rescue and have had at least a year of backcountry travel experience. The AIARE 2 provides backcountry leaders the opportunity to advance their avalanche knowledge and decision-making skills.
Utah avalanche class Photo Gallery
Reviews
FAQ
Online reviews - 5 Stars
Why Choose RRA? - 20+ years of doing it right!
Since 2003, when rafting operations began, we have gone on to expand our operations into rock and ice climbing, canyoneering, guided ski touring, travel trips and outdoor education. We are so proud that this has garnered over 3,000, 5-star reviews across all online review sites. Land or water our clients rave about the quality of our guides, the depth of their knowledge, their ability to teach and most importantly, how incredibly fun each is. We believe our past guest's comments make the decision easy!
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Your Safety is our number #1 concern
Since we started this journey in 2003 we have safely hosted 100,000+ kids and adults on our rafting, climbing, canyoneering and skiing trips in Utah and around the world. RRA guides are at a minimum state licensed, insured and hold first aid and CPR certifications. Many of our river guides hold additional certifications in swift water rescue and whitewater instruction. Many, though not all, of our rock, ice, ski and canyoneering guides are AMGA trained or certified for the terrain they guide..
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Quality Equipment
When running trips quality equipment is paramount. RRA replaces its equipment on a regular basis. This ensures all the gear required to keep you safe and having fun is in top-notch shape.Back to top
Reputation
RRA has earned the reputation of a professionally ran, top quality guide service. We are a tight knit family run business. Once you adventure with RRA we guarantee you'll be back for more.Back to top
Do I need a reservation
YES! To guarantee space on the trip of your choice, we recommend reservations, especially on holidays and summer weekends. In order to provide the type of trip the we have become known for we do limit the number of people on a launch and we do fill up. In addition a lot goes into the planning of your day, including scheduling of guides, drivers, and ensuring that our equipment is always in top-notch condition. Make a reservation as soon as you know when you want to adventure with us and you'll avoid disappointment. Feel free to call us about reservations at any time @ 1-877-259-4046 or email.
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About Age Limitations
Youth Rate = 15 years and younger!Adults = 16 years and up!
All participants on river trips are required to wear a Coast Guard approved floatation device (PFD). For Fisher Towers trips we use an age limit of 5 and kids must weight at least 40 Lbs. On Climbing and Canyoneering trips the limit is 8 years of age. Ask yourself, what kind of previous outdoor experience has the child had? Use your best judgment on the child's preparedness. On the other end, folks well into their 70's have adventured with us.
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Which Trip to Choose
We are thrilled to have the ability to offer such a wide variety or trips. We also realize that this can create confusion. We are a fantastic resource and look forward to helping you choose the trip that is perfect for you and your group. Please feel free to call or email with any questions you might have, we love to help. Often after a brief conversation with one of our staff the the answers become clear.
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Where do we park/leave our things
There is plenty of secure parking on site at our offices. Valuables can be locked in your vehicles and will be perfectly safe for the duration of your trip. In addition we are more than happy to store anything that you may be extra concerned about in our offices while you are on your trip.
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Are there bugs
Thankfully there are usually very few to no bugs on our trips. The we travel through some of the driest terrain on the planet so there is generally no standing water for bugs to breed in. At the same time the current in the main river section is too swift to allow for breeding. This being said sometimes there are gnats or mosquitoes.
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What to Bring
Red River Adventures tries to make your trip with us as easy as possible!
We will clearly outline what we will provide and let you know what you need to bring. Generally, all necessary group equipment for you to take part in our trips is included. RRA provides avalanche safety equipment, skis, splitboards, poles, and ice climbing boots. We will provide trip-specific lists to assist you in bringing the right things.
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What the Weather is Like
Be prepared for hot (75-110 F degrees) weather during June, July, and August. You can expect cooler temperatures (55-90 F degrees) during April, May, September, and October. August is usually the wettest month (short-lived but intense thunder showers).
April 73|42
May 84|50
June 85|58
July 101|64
Aug 98|63
Sept 89|53
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What Risks Are Involved
Red River Adventures has an unblemished safety record. We personally screen and train our employees vigorously each year. Each of our guides receives extensive instructions on safety, swift water rescue and first aid training. Our Climbing and Canyoneering guides are highly trained and many are AMGA certified. Our trips take place in rugged, remote "wilderness" settings. You should be in good general health to participate. Non-swimmers can go and are more than welcome. We provide Coast Guard approved life jackets for your safety.
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Alcohol Policy
Full and 1/2 Day Raft Trips: Alcohol or drugs are not to be consumed before or during trips. No refund will be given to those drinking alcohol or using drugs prior to a scheduled trip.
Climbing/Canyoneering trips. Alcohol or drugs are not to be consumed before or during trips.
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Charter and Group Rates
Red River Adventures offers a group rate discount of 10% to groups of 10 or more. Additional rates reductions are available for school, club, church, or special-interest groups on some trips. We are happy to, when ever possible, customized trip lengths and itineraries. Please contact us for help in arranging your charter trip or for group rate information.
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What To Pack
Red River Adventures will provide:
- Beacon
- Probe
- Shovel
- Pack
For technical outings ice ax and crampons will also be provided.
Full AT setups are available to rent through our partnership with Black Diamond.
RRA will help co-ordinate rental in advance.
Ski Touring (recommended)
- Shell – Jacket/pants (soft shell or gortex with little to no insulation)
- Insulating layer – Down or synthetic puffy coat
- Mid Layer – Synthetic or wool zip shirt
- Base layers: Synthetic, wool or silk bottom, underwear and top
- 2 pairs of gloves
- Hat or hats
- Buff
- Wool or synthetic ski socks
- Helmet
- Google & Sunglasses
- Bottle/thermos for hot tea
- Sunscreen
- Handwarmers/Toe warmers
General
We are always available to answer any questions you may have. A complete packing list will be emailed prior to your trip.
Reservations are HIGHLY recommended! Many dates sell out far in advance!
A refundable payment is due to guarantee your reservation.
We accept:
Full Day & Half Day Trips
Payments- A deposit of 50% is due at the time of reservation.
- 7 days prior: 100% of the trip total is due and will be charged to the card on file.
- 8 days or more prior to departure: Full refund!
- 7 days or less to departure: 100% of the trip total is nonrefundable and cannot be rescheduled.
Large Groups (14 or more)
Payments- A deposit of 50% is due at the time of reservation.
- 14 days prior: 100% of the trip total is due and will be charged to the card on file.
- 15 days or more prior to departure: Full refund.
- 14 days or less to departure: 100% of the trip total is nonrefundable.
Clinics, Courses, and Exams
Payments- A deposit of 50% of the total is due at the time of reservation.
- 30 days prior: 100% of the trip total is due and will be charged to the card on file.
- 31 or more days prior to start: Full refund.
- 30 days or less to departure: 100% of the trip total is nonrefundable.
International Trips
Payments- A deposit of 50% is due at the time of reservation.
- 120 days prior: 100% of the trip total is due and will be charged to the card on file.
- 120+ days prior to departure: 10% of the trip total is nonrefundable.
- 119 - 60 days prior to departure: 50% of the trip total is nonrefundable.
- 59 days or less to departure: 100% of the trip total is nonrefundable.
Trip Insurance
Insure Your Trip
We highly recommend using a credit card with trip protection or purchasing travel insurance. Popular credit cards with trip coverage include:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred / Reserve
- Capital One Venture X
- Amex Platinum
- BOA Premium Rewards
If your credit card doesn’t cover trip protection, consider these travel insurance providers:
- Allianz
- World Nomads
- Travel Guard
- Tin Leg
Travel insurance can cover your activity, course, clinic, or your entire trip — often at a reasonable cost. Regardless of your trip’s length or size, it’s smart to protect yourself from unforeseen changes.
⚠️ Note: Cancellations or changes for ANY reason are subject to our cancellation policy and will only be refunded as outlined. Please protect your investment by insuring your trip!
Weather Policy
Weather is part of the dynamic environment we operate in. Conditions may not always be ideal.
- If RRA determines conditions are suitable: No refunds if you choose to cancel/discontinue.
- If RRA deems conditions unsafe: We may shorten the route, change the venue, or cancel the remainder of your trip.
Refund Breakdown for RRA-Ended Trips
- Less than halfway complete: 50% of the trip fee is charged.
- Halfway or more complete: Full trip fee is charged.
General Policies
Red River Adventures (RRA) reserves the right to cancel any trip due to weather, insufficient bookings, or other circumstances beyond our control. We will make every effort to reschedule. If a reschedule isn’t possible, bookings canceled by RRA will receive a full refund.
Alcohol
Full and Half Day Raft Trips: Alcohol or drugs are not to be consumed before or during trips. No refund will be given to those drinking alcohol or using drugs prior to a scheduled trip.
Climbing/Canyoneering trips: Alcohol or drugs are not to be consumed before or during trips.
