Additional Education & Opportunities

We have some amazing outdoor education in Western Montana!

Flathead Avalanche Center

AVALANCHE AWARENESS, PARTNER RESCUE, MOTORIZED LEVEL 1 AND 2 COURSES

AERIE BACKCOUNTRY MEDICINE

WFA, WFR, EMT, AND CPR COURSES

THE MOUNTAIN GUIDES

AVALANCHE RESCUE, BACKCOUNTRY ESSENTIALS, LEVEL 1 AND 2 COURSES

Tree well Video

Skiing and snowboarding off the groomed runs and in deep powder snow are one of the most exciting and appealing parts of our sport. If you decide to leave the groomed trails, you are voluntarily accepting the risk of falling into tree wells or deep snow and suffocating.

A deep snow or tree well accident occurs when a rider or skier falls into an area of deep unconsolidated snow and becomes immobilized. The more the person struggles, the more entrapped in the snow they become. Deaths resulting from these kinds of accidents are referred to as a NARSID or non-avalanche related snow immersion death. Fortunately, these types of accidents are preventable.

Know the Code, It’s Your Responsibility.

  1. Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.

  2. People ahead or downhill of you have the right-of-way. You must avoid them.

  3. Stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.

  4. Look uphill and avoid others before starting downhill or entering a trail.

  5. You must prevent runaway equipment.

  6. Read and obey all signs, warnings, and hazard markings.

  7. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.

  8. You must know how and be able to load, ride and unload lifts safely. If you need assistance, ask the lift attendant.

  9. Do not use lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol or drugs.

  10. If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.