Considerable avalanche danger in the Wasatch, along with three fatalities just this week, means it’s time to step back and rethink how to travel safely in the backcountry. One way of doing this is to attend one of Snowbird’s free backcountry awareness clinics. Whether you’re a newbie or a backcountry veteran, it’s always a good idea to refresh your memory with good avalanche safety information.
There will be two clinics on February 6, and each will consist of members of the Wasatch Backcountry Rescue teaching 2-hour classes that will cover basic backcountry skills, both in the classroom and on the mountain. Although the workshops are free to the public, donations will be greatly appreciated. The classes begin at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. In the Alpine Room on level 2 of the Snowbird Center. Participants are asked to bring their own beacon.
Following the classes there will be a fundraising party for the Friends of the Utah Avalanche Center. The gathering is at the Golden Cliff at the Cliff Lodge from 4:30 to 7 p.m. and will feature live music and a silent auction of gear from Black Diamond, Dynastar and Snowbird. Tickets are $50 and include free beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres.
For more information, visit www.snowbirdrc.org or call (801) 933-2112.