BASE IS:
Backcountry Avalanche Safety Education (BASE) offers immersive recreational avalanche courses based out of Altoona Lodge in the Flint Creek Mountains near Philipsburg, Montana.
Our courses are designed for backcountry travelers who want more than a standard avalanche class. All instruction is 100% in person and in the field—no Zoom sessions—creating an immersive learning experience rooted in real terrain, real decisions, and real conditions.
BASE courses go beyond traditional recreational avalanche education by integrating ski touring coaching, decision-making, and gear care alongside core avalanche curriculum. We focus on addressing the common gaps we see in standard courses and aim to provide practical, hands-on education that builds a strong foundation for a lifetime of safe backcountry travel and continued learning.
Courses are lodge-based, four days / three nights, and all meals are included. Altoona Lodge sits at 7,600 feet in a remote mountain setting, offering immediate access to high-quality terrain and an ideal environment for focused learning. The lodge is centrally located and within a reasonable drive of Missoula, Helena, Butte, Dillon, and Bozeman, and accessible from Spokane and Whitefish. It offers a functioning shower, an indoor restroom, and a sauna. A lodge host will prepare all meals, allowing you to focus on learning during the course.
Avalanche
Education
Courses
Avalanche Level 1 by BASE
4 days/3 nights
$1,295
The 4-day Level 1 course gives you more time to learn by doing: Assessing conditions, planning tours, leading groups, finding routes, and making smart choices.
You’ll get top instructors, a cozy lodge stay (with a sauna), and tasty meals—all included.
Spaces are limited to 8max —sign up now!
The price covers four full days and three nights at Altoona Ridge Lodge, meals, and real backcountry experience. Seeing avalanche terrain safely is the best way to learn.
Classes have eight students max and never more than a 4:1 student:instructor ratio. We ensure personal attention and quality teaching.
Getting to the lodge is a gradual skin, on a 2.5-mile trail with an 1,800’ elevation gain, usually about three hours. You carry a day pack; we handle the rest.
BASE Avalanche Level 1 Course is accredited by the American Avalanche Association.
Backcountry Avalanche Safety Education (BASE) offers immersive recreational avalanche courses based out of Altoona Lodge in the Flint Creek Mountains near Philipsburg, Montana.
But we also do MORE!
We know that not all people and not all organizations are able to take advantage of our signature avalanche courses. We offer private, custom options. We are dedicated to making education and empowerment a reality for you. Please use the “Contact Us” option to discuss how we can help.
WHO IS BASE
Your Questions, Answered
Q. What is Included?
A. BASE courses Included A3 Level 1 Rec Certification, Lodging, Gear Transport, All Meals, A3 Pro instructors 4:1 Student:Instructor, and, likely, a very good time.
Q. How do I get there?
A. After you arrive at our meeting point near Maxville MT, we will haul your gear while you will gradually travel 2.5mi up an 1800’ trail to the lodge. Snacks, beverages, and a warm fire will be waiting.
Q. What is the Lodging like?
A. Altoona Lodge provides VERY comfortable backcountry accommodations. Three buildings provide a full kitchen and hangout area with an Epic Deck and View, a quiet, dedicated Sleeping Building with queen and full size futons, and a Bath House complete with Sauna, and Shower.
Let's Work Together
Backcountry Avalanche and Safety Education wants to empower people to enjoy our mountains safely. Please reach out to us with your questions. Thank You
Ben and Jeff
BASE co-founders
