Avalanche courses

Avalanche Course for Beginners and Experienced

When you're off-piste, there's always an avalanche risk – whether you like it or not...

In this practical one day course, our experienced mountain guides will teach you how to properly assess avalanche danger in the backcountry. The main topics include trip planning, hazard evaluation, behavior in the terrain, and the effective use of safety equipment (avalanche transceiver, airbag, etc.).

A MUST for all skiers and snowboarders who venture off the groomed slopes.

The course is held in cooperation with the Ortovox Safety Academy and is conducted in both German and English. All course materials are available in German, English, and French.

DatesDetailsImportant InfosMaterialFotos

Course Content:

  • Analyzing and understanding the avalanche bulletin

  • Use of avalanche transceiver, probe, and shovel

  • Rescue of buried individuals in case of an avalanche

  • Route selection in open terrain

  • Human factor

  • Slope-specific avalanche assessment

  • Avalanche prevention measures

Requirements:

  • Ski & snowboard technique: Moderate to good off-piste skills

  • Fitness: Good physical condition for a full day outdoors

Detailed Program:

  • Meet at the mountain guide office, welcome and gear check

  • Transfer by public transport or car to the valley station

  • On-site avalanche bulletin review and comparison

  • Practical training according to course content – Part 1

  • Lunch at a restaurant and short avalanche theory session

  • Course ends around 4:30 PM in Engelberg

Is the course also available in English?
Yes, all our mountain guides speak English. The course materials are also available in English. Please indicate your language preference when registering.

When will I receive the exact details?
We will send you an info email a few days before the course with all the important details. By then, we will also have a better idea of the current conditions and weather.

Does the course take place in all weather conditions?
As long as the ski resort is open, the course will take place. If not, we will look at possible alternatives and try to find a suitable solution. If the course is cancelled, you can easily rebook for another date.

Is the course suitable for snowboarders?
Absolutely! Snowboarders are very welcome. A splitboard is not required!

What equipment is required?
You can participate with skis or a snowboard. There will be no uphill touring with skins during the course. A freeride ski or snowboard is recommended.

Can I rent equipment?
Yes, we offer modern and well-maintained rental gear for our guests. We'd be happy to reserve equipment for you and provide on-site advice.

How do I get there?
The meeting point is in the mountain guide office in the village of Engelberg. It’s a 5-minute walk from the train station. If you're coming by car, the best place to park is in the village parking lot near the monastery. From there, we’ll head to the mountain together.

What kind of lift ticket do I need?
As we aim to use the day efficiently, we’ll be using ski lifts to explore a variety of terrain. You'll need a ski ticket. Please wait before purchasing, as a cheaper touring ticket might be sufficient. The mountain guide will inform you in the morning.


Standard Equipment

  • Warm winter clothing

  • Insulated jacket

  • 2 pairs of gloves

  • Hat

  • Helmet

  • Ski goggles

  • Sunglasses

  • Sunscreen

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Backpack (approx. 30L)

Technical Equipment

  • Freeride skis / Touring skis / Snowboard

  • Ski boots / Snowboard boots

  • Ski poles

  • Avalanche transceiver

  • Probe

  • Shovel

 

 

Bilder

Der Kurs wird durchgeführt von:

Team Engelberg Mountain Guide
info@engelbergmountainguide.ch
Bergführer UIAGM