AIARE Avalanche Classes in Truckee and Lassen National Park
AIARE Avalanche Courses with the OAC – Truckee/Donner Summit and Lassen National Park
Learn in a boutique program built around personal attention, small groups, and instructors who care deeply about your success. At the Outdoor Adventure Club, you’ll get more time, more guidance, and a more meaningful connection to your instructor—before, during, and after your course.
Why Take Your AIARE Course with the OAC:
Boutique program, personal focus. We keep our courses intentionally small so every student gets individual attention. You won’t get lost in the crowd. Your questions get answered.
“Small group size, cozy lodge, bottomless coffee. Amazingly experienced and passionate guides.” — AIARE 1 Student
Immersive cabin-based learning at Lassen. Stay at our OAC cabin in Mineral and live the course with your instructor and classmates. Discuss, debrief, and keep learning over breakfast or dinner.
“From the moment you step in the door to the moment you leave, Richard’s teaching, telling stories, and drawing maps late into the night. Absolutely full value.” — AIARE 1 Student, Lassen
More connection in Tahoe, too. Our Tahoe program includes a group dinner after the first field day—a chance to relax, reflect, and clarify new concepts with your instructor and classmates.
Expert instruction. All AIARE 1 and AIARE 2 courses are led by Richard Bothwell—avalanche educator for over a decade, former AIARE Executive Director, author of Light Tours of Tahoe, and backcountry guide in the Sierra and Lassen for 20+ years.
“I was so impressed with Richard’s knowledge of avalanches and his teaching methods.” — AIARE Student
Exclusive OAC mini-courses. Supplement your learning with short, focused online lessons designed to reinforce key AIARE concepts.
Community and mentoring. Join our private AIARE Alumni Group for continued learning, mentorship, and trip connections.
“The additional web avalanche education was super useful. Highly recommend!” — AIARE 1 Student, Tahoe
Incredible terrain. Our permitted zones include over 16,000 acres (25 square miles) in the Tahoe National Forest and Lassen National Park.
Student gear discounts. OAC students receive 20% off avalanche gear (plus an extra 5% for members) at Tahoe Mountain Sports.
We also offer private and custom AIARE courses for your group—perfect for teams, families, or friends who want a more personal learning experience. Contact us for details →