We'll cover the following topics and skills:

• What to do if you're caught in an avalanche
• What to do if your partner is caught in an avalanche
• How to use your beacon, shovel and probe
• Rescue equipment technology
• Rescue techniques for companion and small team rescue
• How terrain affects an avalanche rescue and how to use terrain to your advantage
• Visual search, transceiver search and spot probing
• Strategies for using your gear effectively

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a lift-accessed Avalanche Rescue course and what are the benefits vs. a regular Avalanche Rescue course?

A lift-accessed avalanche rescue course is designed to maximize practice and learning by using ski resort lifts for quick access to realistic avalanche terrain. This approach allows participants to focus on essential skills such as transceiver searches, team rescue coordination, and descending while searching, without the time-consuming transitions of backcountry courses. The ease of access ensures more rescue scenarios are covered, improving proficiency in life-saving techniques. Additionally, the varied terrain and safe environment of ski resorts enhance the learning experience.

For more info, check out our blog post on the advantages of a lift-accessed rescue course

Why choose an AIARE Rescue Avalanche course in Tahoe?

Tahoe is an excellent location for an Avalanche Rescue course due to its reliable snowfall, varied terrain, and dynamic weather. The deep snowpack and diverse landscape—ranging from tree-filled slopes to open alpine bowls—provide realistic settings for practicing essential rescue skills, including beacon searches and digging techniques. Tahoe’s changing weather also allows students to experience different snow conditions, helping them learn how to adapt their rescue techniques.

Accessible from the Bay Area and major cities, including Sacramento and Reno, Tahoe combines convenience with an immersive backcountry learning environment, supported by a strong local avalanche community and top-tier guides.

Why choose Blackbird Mountain Guides for your AIARE Avalanche Rescue course?:

Choosing Blackbird Mountain Guides for your AIARE Avalanche Rescue course means learning from some of the most experienced and dedicated avalanche professionals in the industry. Blackbird’s instructors are seasoned backcountry guides with extensive hands-on experience in diverse avalanche terrain. We prioritize small group sizes, which allows for personalized instruction and in-depth practice of critical rescue skills, including beacon searches, probing, and efficient shoveling techniques.

We are also the #1 AIARE course provider in the U.S., committed to the highest standards of safety and education. With Blackbird, you gain practical knowledge, confidence, and skills to handle avalanche rescue situations, supported by a team that’s dedicated to your growth and safety in the backcountry.

For more info check out our blog post about what makes Blackbird's AIARE courses different.

This program requires at least 3 participants to run.

Here's the schedule for your course:

• 8:30 am - Meet your guide at the ski area (either Donner Ski Ranch or Tahoe Donner)


• 9:00 am - Load the ski lifts and cover fundamental avalanche rescue skills


• 10:30am -3:00pm - Instructor rescue demo and participant led scenarios with the opportunity to ski laps in between


• 3:00-3:30 - Course ends

Here are the skills and fitness you'll need for your course:

• Advanced Resort Riding skills - Including off-piste terrain in challenging snow conditions


• Basic Backcountry Touring Skills - Including familiarity with equipment and avalanche gear.


• Basic Fitness - Able to spend an active day outside, moving uphill at 1,000’ per hour for durations of roughly 1 hour between breaks. Participants should be able to hike 3-5 miles and climb 1,000-1,500 vertical feet throughout the course of the day.


• Ski/Split Touring & Avalanche Gear - Come prepared with your own gear or rent from us

Here's what's included with your course:

• Experienced AMGA/AIARE Trained Guide
• Tahoe or Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Permit
• Lift Ticket (a $50 value)
• AIARE Certification/Student Fees (a $20 value)
• Group Safety Gear - Snow Science, First Aid Kits
• Wag Bags - for human waste disposal, in compliance 'Leave No Trace' principles

• Ski/Splitboard Gear
• Avalanche Gear
• Transportation
• Meals
• Winter Parking Passes
• Guide Gratuities

Tahoe Backcountry Skiing Gear List

• Avalanche Gear - Come prepared with your own gear or rent from Blackbird


• Ski/Split Touring Gear - Come prepared with your own gear or rent from Tahoe Sports Hub - use code BLACKBIRD10 for 10% off at checkout.