Because of my job and our extensive operations in the mountains of Southwest Colorado, we are constantly going through our survival equipment at the Durango Base. The daily checks become even more important when the temperatures begin to drop, and the first snow begins to fall in the San Juans. Our crews pull out the "Winter Survival Bag" that we put on board for the winter months, and go through our snowshoes, gaiters, snowshovels, avalanche probes, assorted ropes and belay equipment, standard survival pack, and most importantly our avalanche beacons. There is a distinct science to the combined uses of all this equipment. Carrying them is a must for any backcountry traveler, and being proficient in their use requires constant practice. So last December, when I was offered the chance to go to the Silverton Avalanche School, I jumped at the chance.

The Silverton Avalanche School is the oldest, continously running avalanche school in the nation. For over 45 years, the Silverton Avalanche School has trained and educated over 4000 skiers, snowboarders, snowmobilers, ski patrollers, search and rescue, EMS, and law enforcement officers in the art of snow science, avalanche hazards, snow stability, backcountry rescue and emergencies.

Held in the heart of the San Juan backcountry, in the Colorado mining town of Silverton, Colorado, the school is situated perfectly for avalanche education and expierience. Due to the unique weather, location, and aspect angles, the San Juan mountains are deemed the most avalance prone mountain area in the world.

As important as having the tools for traversing the backcountry, is the training to use that equipment when you need it the most. The Silverton Avalanche School is definately the place to hone those skills, either for the first time before you venture into the backcountry, or as a refresher for those from the old school.