Avy 3?

Who here has taken it? Alot of times if you look at the description of the course it'll say something about becoming a mountain guide. I really don't have any desire to guide or to work for a forecast center, is it worth it for the average bc user? I always want to learn more, I'm just wondering what the focus of most level 3 courses are.

I think maybe for now I just need to spend a few more years getting out there?

Several years ago I did a really good level 3 in Jackson with the AAI. We camped for a few nights in the park near the Grand and did a bunch of good skiing. It is not just for guides and you can learn a ton. Some of the stuff that is a bit more guide specific would be the documentation and reporting standards, but that still will teach you a lot even if you don’t use it. It was a good course.

I think someone who is not an avy pro could get something out of a Level 3, especially if you are with other folks who are in the same boat. There is more of a focus on higher levels of training for recreational users these days.

other options would include

1. National Avalanche School – Phase 1, October 21-26, 2007 at Snowbird, UT. Phase 2 dates and locations yet to be determined - tentatively scheduled for Jan and Feb, 2008.
2. AAA Professional Avalanche Worker School (PAWS) – SW Montana, Feb 3-10, 2007

my wife and a couple of buddies and I did Phase 1 in Oct, 2005, and Phase 2 at Alpine meadows last Jan. Very good course.

And you might also consider a Canadian course - check intp the CAA.

Spend some time wandering around learning about the different snow conditions place to place.
Head out the Oquirahs, Stansburys, Sessions, Uintas, and Provo mountains.
Spend a coupla years at it.
Then decide if you need a Level 3.
A Level 3 should be a week or more in duration, BTW

k,

here's a direct thought ... you don't have to be a "guide" to have other people's life in your hands or significant input/impact into or on what you ski or how you ski it or approach it.

i tend to agree with WOW though; to get max benfit outta Av 3 spend the time in the field and then go back for 3 - will get a HUGE bang for your buck!!!

Yes, I took a Level 3 (from an AIARE provider), and yes, it was very worthwhile (even though I was the only recreationalist -- everyone else was either a current or aspiring guide).