Free Avalanche Safety Class

The snow is here, and people are already missing on Crystal Mountain. They apparently hit the backcountry (seems way to early to be doing that, we think), and by all accounts were properly equipped, including avalanche beacons. But shit can go sideways in the backcountry, and "properly equipped" is most relevant if you really know how to use that stuff. We're hoping those lost folks do, and are found any second now.

Should you be of the mindset to step outside a resort's boundaries this year, you might want to brush up on your avalanche safety skills. And lucky you (let's hope that luck continues all season), there's a free course at Evo Gear in Fremont next Tuesday. Haven't practiced using your beacon in a few years? Might want to check it out, and then follow up with a more intensive, thorough class that includes hands-on practice outside, such as those offered by International Mountain Guides, the Mountaineers, or the Cascade Alpine Guides (at REI).

Stevens Pass opens Thursday, so get on it!