Description
Family Avalanche Awareness Day
January 18, 2021
Cost: $70 per family
One of the best parts about winter is getting outdoors and recreating! Whether you’re skiing deep in the backcountry, or simply out for a short snowshoe, everyone spending time in the snowy mountains can benefit from learning the ins and outs of avalanches. Join us at our Big Creek Outdoor Education Center as we discuss the basics of snow science, what to look for in avalanche country, how avalanches are triggered, and what to do if you find yourself on unstable ground. This is a family-friendly course and children ages 6 and up are welcomed. There will be restrooms, hot beverages, and a warming hut available.
Ages: Open to ages 6+
Location: Meet at Big Creek Outdoor Education Center, directly across the road from Big Creek Campground. (48°36’06.2″N 114°09’55.9″W).
Meeting Time/Duration: 10:00AM-3:00PM
What to Bring:
- Lunch & Snacks
- Water (at least 2 liters)
- Enough warm layers to be outside for 5 hours (warm hat, gloves, layers that you can shed if/when you become warm from exertion)
- Synthetic or wool layers are best
- Cotton holds moisture for much longer and increases your risk of hypothermia greatly, avoid cotton layers if at all possible
- Waterproof outer layers (coat and pants)
- Winter Boots
- Snowshoes are available for rent upon arrival, bring your own if you have them
Weather/Road Conditions:
Temperatures are, on average, at least 10 degrees colder at Big Creek than in the Flathead Valley, and we typically experience higher snowfall. While the North Fork Road is plowed on weekdays, driving conditions can be unpredictable. An all-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive vehicle with winter tires is recommended. Courses may be ended early in order to ensure safe travel back to town for our participants.
