For years, nearly twenty, avalanche professionals across North America & beyond have been referencing the mythical twenty percent number. That twenty percent is representative of the amount of folks that succumb to traumatic injuries in avalanche accidents. A new study shows that the new number is much higher.

I’m an AMGA Certified Ski Guide, Avalanche Forecaster and owner of the Mountain Training Center. I’ve got about a decade of backcountry experience and have skied all over the world from peaks topping 18,000’ to steep backcountry couloirs. This list will reflect what I bring as a recreational skier on the days I’m not skiing lines with clients.

There are many reasons for not jumping straight into a REC 1 avalanche course with the primary being unfamiliarity with the gear, an overwhelming amount of information and lack of experience.

Online avalanche education offers backcountry skiers the flexibility to learn at their own pace, making it a great starting point for beginners or a valuable refresher for seasoned adventurers. While it's a powerful tool for building foundational knowledge, it should always complement hands-on, in-person training to ensure comprehensive safety in the mountains.

Understanding and managing avalanche terrain isn’t just a skill; it’s a mindset. From recognizing the risks of steep slopes to adapting your plans on the fly, these expert tips will help you stay safe while enjoying the thrill of backcountry skiing.