Planning to get the snowmobile out this winter, or head into the mountains on skis or snowshoes? The Northwest Avalanche Center offers free introductory classes that can be a starting point for your preparations.
NWAC’s 90-minute avalanche-awareness presentation covers finding avalanche and mountain-weather forecasts and recognizing basic signs of danger. Classes serve people who ski, climb, snowshoe, snowboard or snowmobile.
Find a class and check the details
Snowmobile riders can start with NWAC’s motorized-class calendar. The full calendar lists other sessions. Open the individual listing and follow its registration link.
Check the date, local start time and whether the class is online or at a physical venue. Save the confirmation and joining instructions so they are easy to find on class day.
NWAC presents awareness instruction as introductory education and recommends it before a field-based Level 1 course. Ask about further training suited to your winter activities.
Bring a class to your group
NWAC also offers free classes for public audiences and private groups. It supplies the instructor and curriculum; hosts provide physical or virtual space, audiovisual equipment and promotion. Request a class at least four weeks ahead.
For another part of winter planning, our Sno-Park permit guide explains parking permits for nonmotorized outings. Check permits and class arrangements separately before making travel plans.
