Three Sisters Backcountry Inc., situated at the base of Tam MacArthur Rim, now offers immersion-style avalanche safety classes. These American Mountain Guide Association certified classes include two to three nights in their backcountry yurts, indoor and outdoor instruction, discussion and lots of skiing! If you’d rather spend the night in your own bed, you can also sign up for one of their three-day field courses—but the huts are where it’s at, trust us.

Both Avy I classes (listed opposite) will provide students with a basic understanding of avalanches, as well as practical field advice, to help participants better identify avalanche conditions. Their Avy II class is an advanced four-day program which should give backcountry users the tools they need to advance their avalanche knowledge and decision making skills. (JW)

To book a yurt, guided trip, or take a class visit threesistersbackcountry.com.

Avalanche Class Schedule:

Hut-Based Level 1 Class ($490)

Dec. 14-16, 2012

Feb. 18-20, 2013

Traditional Level 1 Class ($290)

Dec. 28-30, 2012

Feb. 8-10, 2013

March 1-3, 2013

April 3-5, 2013

Hut-Based Level 2 Class ($635)

Jan. 24-27, 2013

March 28-31, 2013

Photo submitted.