Motorized Avalanche Classes
Overview of Motorized Avalanche Classes
For Winter 2026, SAC will offer Intro Days, Level 1, Rescue, and Level 2 avalanche classes for motorized users. These classes are for snowmobilers and snowbikers who ride off-trail and may expose themselves to avalanche terrain.
Skiers and snowboarders who use snowmobiles for access purposes, but whose exposure to avalanches occurs primarily on skis or a snowboard, should take a class from one of the region's many non-motorized providers.
SAC classes follow the guidelines established by the American Avalanche Association, so they are recognized throughout the U.S. and are compatible with other avalanche classes. All classes teach the "Daily Flow" avalanche risk management process, and require participants to complete pre-course reading about it. This information is best digested with small bites over several days. Please don't try to cram it all in the night before your class! Avalanche Rescue and Level 2 classes also have videos to watch, as described in the syllabi below.
These classes are free to the public from a mix of SAC general funds and CA OHV grant funds, but require advanced registration. Classes open for registration 6 weeks prior to course start. To register, follow the links in the 2026 Schedule column.
Please reach out to SAC Board Member and Motorized Instructor Tasha Thomas with any questions: tasha@sierraavalanchecenter.org
Participants must:
- Pay a $100 registration deposit that will automatically be refunded upon attending the class.
- Be 18 or older, or 16-17 with a parent or guardian also registered in the same class.
- Bring a functioning beacon, shovel, and probe (some loaner gear is available on Intro Days). Beacons should be modern three-antennae, shovels should be made specifically for avalanche rescue, and probes should be 270cm or longer. Avalanche gear must be worn/carried on self, and not in tunnel bag. An extra shovel in tunnel bag is recommended.
- Wear a DOT or similarly approved helmet and weather-appropriate gear.
- Bring a radio capable of operating on FRS/GMRS frequencies. A simple external speaker/mic is preferable to voice activated systems.
- Ride a reliable, well maintained snowmobile/snowbike, capable of off-trail travel. Poorly maintained machines and/or machines not intended for off-trail travel may jeopardize the experience of others. A spare belt and basic repair kit are required. Insurance is strongly recommended.
- Be able to ride full days, off-trail in variable conditions. Intro days and Avalanche Rescue classes are appropriate for those newer to off-trail riding. Level 1 and 2 classes require more riding experience/skill. For more info on riding ability, please read the syllabus for each class type.
- Complete the pre-course reading and watch the videos for Avalanche Rescue and Level 2 classes as described in the syllabi below.
2026 Schedule
Classes open for registration 6 weeks prior to course start
1/10 Rescue at Little Truckee Summit
1/11 Rescue at Little Truckee Summit
1/16-18 Level 2 at Little Truckee Summit
1/17 Intro Day location TBD
1/18 Women's Intro Day location TBD
1/20-22 Level 1 at Little Truckee Summit
1/23-25 Level 1 at Little Truckee Summit
1/30-2/1 Women's Level 1 at Little Truckee Summit
2/6-8 Level 1 at Blue Lakes
2/13-15 Level 1 at Blue Lakes
2/20-22 Level 1 at Blue Lakes
2/21 Intro Day location TBD
2/22 Women's Intro Day location TBD
2/27-3/1 Level 1 at Bear Valley
