According to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC), the 2018-2019 avalanche season was one for the history books. New avalanche paths were created; roads, buildings, power and gas lines were damaged or destroyed; and 136 people were caught in avalanches resulting in eight fatalities. What does the 2019-2020 season have in store for us? No one may be able to answer that question, but what we can do is become better prepared to recreate in winter conditions and in potential avalanche terrain.
The Adventure Hiking Group meets on the first Friday of each month. In lieu of a hike on November 1, the Group invites all Estes Park Newcomers Club members to join us for an Avalanche Awareness presentation and discussion. The approximately 90 minute presentation will take place Friday November 1, 2019 at 4:30 pm in the US Bank Community Room (east of the library at 363 East Elkhorn Ave).
Tom Chapel, the Adventure Hiking Group leader will conduct the presentation, and will be available for questions and answers afterwards. In addition to being an avid backcountry skier and mountaineer, Tom is a Life Member and Snow Leader with Larimer County Search and Rescue (LCSAR). He has Level 2 avalanche certification through the American Institute for Avalanche Education (AIARE), and conducts snow safety education and training programs for LCSAR and the Colorado Mountain Club (CMC).
This presentation is intended to introduce outdoor enthusiasts of all levels to the concepts of safe winter travel and avalanche avoidance. Using slides and visual aids, Tom will discuss winter gear and preparedness, provide information for evaluating snow conditions and terrain, describe safe travel habits, and present some basic concepts of snow science and companion rescue. Please mark your calendar and RSVP online as space is limited.