Field Day – Grand Mesa

This course consists of 2 parts: 

1. Online classroom lecture where students will learn and review different avalanche terrain risks.  Classroom lecture will last approximately 3 1/2 to 4 hours and must be completed before the field day.
2. The field portion of the course  for Western Slope students will be held January 11 at Grand Mesa Lodge on their property or closely. In the field, the students will observe terrain and discuss travel decisions. Students will use slope meters and compasses to identify potential avalanche terrain.
   

Class room  and Field Learning Objectives & Outcomes 

• Understand why Colorado has the most dangerous avalanche conditions in the US
• Learn what an avalanche is and what factors contribute to an avalanche
• Understand and apply current avalanche forecast
• Recognize & avoid avalanche hazards
• Use tools for planning a successful trip
• Learn from case studies of  avalanche accidents

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This seminar requires no prerequisites. 

1. Online day 3-4 hour classroom lecture where you will learn and review different avalanche terrain risks, and practice route finding through case studies. This must be completed before the field day on 1/11/26.
2. Next is a 3 to 4 hour session in the field on January 11 2026.  In the field, the students will observe terrain and make travel decisions based on the planned route, and travel adjustments in the field in avoiding exposure to avalanche terrain. We'll use slope meters to identify potential avalanche terrain to avoid as we travel through non-avalanche terrain. These techniques can be taught with or without snow conditions.

Students should bring the regular 10 Essentials and be prepared for winter conditions in the field.

In order to AVOID avalanche terrain, you must be capable of RECOGNIZING IT.

This is the WHY - why you take ATA.

TBD on Grand Mesa Jan 11 2026.