Avalanche Awareness

& Backcountry Skiing 2026-27

Choice Pass, Gunnison Watershed School District (GWSD), Irwin Guides, and CO Backcountry are excited to partner once again to offer amazing winter activities for local students in 9th-12th grade!

December 4th and 5th, we will kick off the winter season with an avalanche safety course based on AIARE curriculum delivered by experts from Irwin Guides. Cost is $100 for Choice Pass youth and $125 for non-Choice Pass youth. Registration and payment must be received by Nov. 20th. See poster with details below.

Later in the season, on January 22nd and February 5th, students who have ever taken an avalanche safety course are invited to join for 2 days of backcountry skiing with expert guides from CO Backcountry and GWSDS staff.