Avalanche Level 2 Course
American Avalanche Association Recognized Provider
3 days of Avalanche Education
Mt Shasta & Bear Valley, California.
Mt Charleston, Nevada
Price per person
$775
Continue your Avalanche Education with our recreational Level 2 Course. Our level 2 Course curriculum exceeds the A3 minimum requirements, and consists of classroom instruction, video, discussion, and 16+ hours time in the field. Field time will be spent hands-on evaluating the snowpack structure and strength. This course is designed to build on the necessary information and skills developed in the recreational level 1 course. We then explore deeper into the most up-to-date science behind avalanches and their contributing factors. This course will give you a more technical understanding of how avalanches develop and release, and provide a better decision making foundation while in or near avalanche terrain.
Departure: Mt Shasta & Bear Valley, California, Mt Charleston Nevada
Duration: 3 days
Prerequisites: Recreation Avalanche Level 1, Rescue Course – one year since level 1 course.
Included in Course Cost: Instructor fees, land use fees, course materials, A3 Student certificate & student fee.
Group Size: 12
Guide to Guest ratio: 1:6
Avalanche Level 2 Course Itinerary
Day 1 – Snowpack Structure and Field Foundations
We begin at 8 a.m. with a classroom session focused on advancing knowledge gained in Level 1. The morning covers avalanche formation, terrain influences, weather patterns, and common triggers for avalanches. In the afternoon, we move into the field to dig a quick snow pit, where students identify weak layers and learn how to track these changes throughout the course. The day wraps up around 5 p.m.
Day 2 – Snow Crystals, Grains, and Full Pit Profiles
After meeting again at 8 a.m., the morning classroom session dives into the science of snow. We look closely at individual crystals and grains, how they form, and the processes of weathering and metamorphism that affect stability. The afternoon is spent at a new field site, where students complete a full snow profile. This includes taking temperatures, studying grain size and type, identifying layers, and documenting all observations in a detailed profile. Completed profiles are submitted to the local avalanche center before concluding the day.
Day 3 – Applied Field Travel and Assessment
The final day begins with a quick classroom briefing and discussion of the travel plan. The remainder of the day is spent in the field, applying knowledge while traveling through terrain, practicing group management, and identifying signs of avalanche potential. Students complete at least one full snow profile on their own, document their findings, and submit their assessment before the conclusion of the course.
Course Overview
This advanced recreational course is designed for students who already hold an Avalanche Level 1 certificate and have completed an Avalanche Rescue course. With a strong emphasis on snow science and terrain application, Level 2 provides the foundation for more advanced study and serves as a key step for those preparing to pursue a Professional Level 1 course.
Avalanche Course FAQ
- Q: Why should I take an avalanche course with SWS Mountain Guides?
A: We’ve been teaching avalanche courses since our early days in 1981, and our curriculum is recognized by the American Avalanche Association (A3). Our instructors are experienced educators and mountain professionals who focus on practical skills, real-world decision-making, and helping you become more confident in the backcountry. - Q: Are your avalanche courses approved?
A: SWS Mountain Guides is an American Avalanche Association (A3) fully recognized Avalanche Course Provider for meeting or excessing the national standards for avalanche education in the U.S. set by the American Avalanche Association. Our courses carry the same recognition other A3 recognized providers including the American Avalanche Institute, and AIARE associated organizations. For example; our Level 1 and rescue course with SWS qualifies you to take a Level 2 or Pro 1 with SWS Mountain Guides with any other A3-recognized provider. -
Q: What types of avalanche courses do you offer?
A: We offer Avalanche Level 1, Avalanche Rescue, Avalanche Level 1 Refresher*, Avalanche Level 2, and Professional Level 1 in partnership with the American Avalanche Association. We also provide customized refresher and awareness courses. Our programs are designed for backcountry skiers, snowboarders, climbers, and mountaineers. Note:*The Avalanche Level 1 Refresher is meant to review and reinforce the A3 curriculum from the full Level 1 course. It is not a replacement for the complete Level 1. - Q: Do I need any prior experience to take an avalanche course?
A: No prior avalanche training is required for Level 1. You should be comfortable skiing, snowboarding, or traveling on snowshoes in backcountry terrain. Higher-level courses (Level 2) do require a completed Level 1 and Rescue Course, plus some time in the backcountry to practice your skills. - Q: Where are your avalanche courses held?
A: Our courses are offered in Oregon, Nevada, and California, including Mount Shasta and Bear Valley. We also offer custom courses in Tahoe, Lassen, and the Eastern Sierra. Each location offers varied terrain and snowpack for a comprehensive learning experience. - Q: What’s included in the course cost?
A: Instruction, course materials, discounts and trials of mapping programs. You’ll be responsible for your own backcountry ski, snowboard, or snowshoe setup, along with clothing, food, and transportation. Avalanche safety equipment (beacon, probe, shovel is available for rent from us if you don’t have your own) - Q: How many people are in a course?
A: We keep groups small. We will not exceed 6 students per instructor on our courses. This ensures more personalized instruction, better group discussions, and increased learning during field sessions. - Q: What will I learn in a Level 1 Avalanche Course?
A: You’ll learn how to recognize avalanche terrain, understand weather and snowpack factors, use decision-making frameworks to reduce your exposure to avalanche hazards, travel protocols while in avalanche-prone areas, and practice rescue techniques. The course is a mix of classroom and hands-on fieldwork. - Q: How much time is spent in the classroom versus the field?
A: Our courses are 24+ hours over 3 days. Day 1 and 2 are typically a morning classroom session followed by afternoons in the field. Day 3 consists of a full day in the field to emphasize practical, hands-on experience in real snow conditions, because that’s where the learning really sticks. - Q: What gear do I need for an avalanche course?
A: You’ll need a backcountry travel setup (skis with touring bindings and skins, splitboard with skins, or snowshoes), appropriate winter clothing, a backpack, food, and water. Avalanche safety gear (beacon, probe, shovel) is available for rent if you don’t have your own. - Q: Can I rent ski or snowboard gear from you?
A: We don’t rent skis or splitboards, but we can point you toward trusted local rental shops near each course location. - Q: How physically fit do I need to be?
A: Avalanche courses are active, requiring travel in snow and variable conditions while carrying a pack. Moderate fitness is recommended, but you don’t need to be an elite athlete. If you can comfortably hike several miles in the mountains, you’ll be fine. - Q: How do these courses help me in the real world?
A: The goal is to give you tools to make better decisions in the backcountry. You’ll leave the course more confident in assessing terrain, recognizing hazards, communicating with your partners, and using your rescue gear if an emergency arises. - Q: What if the weather is bad during my course?
A: Avalanche courses run in all kinds of winter weather, since changing conditions are part of the learning process. If conditions are unsafe to travel in the field, your instructor will adjust the plan, but most storms actually enhance the educational experience. - Q: How do I sign up for an avalanche course?
A: You can register directly on our website or give us a call. Once you sign up, we’ll send you a confirmation email with course logistics, gear list, and rental options. Our office team is always happy to answer any questions you have before your course.