Level 2 course at Alta

I just signed up for my AAI Avy Level 2 at Alta in December.

Obviously, I've got my Avy 1 and I've been touring for a while so I more or less know what to expect from the course.

But I had a couple quick questions. Has anyone done this specific course (at Alta, through AAI)? Given that I've never done Alta before, am I going to have a chance to ski enough or do I want to show up a day early to get my turns in?

Also, is there any place close to Alta in LCC where I can camp in ghetto fabulous luxury? I don't think I want to drive from SLC every day and I assume that staying at a lodge up the canyon will cost more than my broke ass could possibly afford. I own or have access to everything from a bivy sack to a wall tent, but I'd rather not sleep in the car.

You'll want to do your skiing before the class starts. You'll be on your skis in the field sessions, but I wouldn't really call it skiing. You'll also want to stay in SLC. It's not like it's a long drive or anything.

Who ya got for instructors?

Fair enough. I kinda figured I'd need to ski hard on Day -1. Interesting to know that the drive is fine down the canyon. Now that I googled it, 13 miles isn't terrible.

I've got Jake Hutchinson, Rod Newcomb, and Ron Matous. I'm familiar with Rod Newcomb's rep and look forward to the opportunity to ski with him and pick his brain about backcountry travel.

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Originally Posted by Jer

You'll want to do your skiing before the class starts. You'll be on your skis in the field sessions, but I wouldn't really call it skiing. You'll also want to stay in SLC. It's not like it's a long drive or anything.

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Watch the weather closely...

If a storm comes in an shuts down the LCC road, you're going to miss class.....

I took my Level 2 with AAI at The Canyons a few years back. Don't worry - you'll get some turns in.

Rod's great - you will enjoy a class with him. You're lucky to have him as an instructor. Jake's very good, too. You are in good hands.

Took the class last year at the Canyons:
http://www.tetongravity.com/forums/s...hlight=newcomb

Do a couple of snowpit profiles if you haven't before..
Rod and Jake are awesome, they really balance the class out (practical vs. theoretical)