Outdated Browser

Internet Explorer is not supported. Please upgrade your browser.

The Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale

Avaluator Trip Planner Exercises

These questions test your ability to use the Avaluator Trip Planner. Each image shows a route going from point A to point B. We'll let you know if the route is using simple, challenging, or complex terrain. You'll also be given the current avalanche danger rating.

Hover over or tap on the icons to refresh yourself on each band of the Trip Planner.

Click on the icons to learn more about each colour band. Trips that fall in the green mean you should exercise NORMAL CAUTION. You can generally travel with confidence, but you should still be on the lookout for hazards and use safe travel skills. Be wary of individual slopes and keep an eye out for conditions that differ from expectations. Accidents in this risk band are infrequent. A marker on the mapTrips in the yellow band require EXTRA CAUTION. Safe travel requires an advanced understanding of the current avalanche problems. You’ll be taking bigger risks and need to know how to mitigate them to travel safely. You should be constantly evaluating slopes and using safe travel habits is critical. Advanced trip planning and group management skills, significant personal experience, and humility are essential. A marker on the mapIf you find your trip falls in the red band, NOT RECOMMENDED, your risk exposure is too high. Conditions are primed for avalanches and even careful decisions can result in accidents. You might get away with it a few times, but you run an increased likelihood of getting caught in an avalanche if you continue to recreate in the red band. A marker on the map

Question 1

This is simple terrain. The avalanche danger is moderate at all elevations.
Marko Stavric

Questionnaire

This route sticks to simple terrain. The avalanche danger is moderate at all elevations. Where does this trip fall on the Avaluator Trip Planner?

Question 2

This is challenging terrain and the avalanche danger is considerable.
Avalanche Canada

Questionnaire

This route exposes you to some challenging terrain and the avalanche danger is considerable. Where does this trip fall on the Avaluator Trip Planner?

These next two questions require you to understand the definition of each risk band on the Trip Planner.

Question 3

w
Avalanche Canada

Questionnaire

This is challenging terrain and the avalanche hazard is high. Can you travel safely along this route under the conditions?

Question 4

This is complex terrain and the avalanche hazard is considerable.
Alex Cooper

Questionnaire

This is complex terrain and the avalanche hazard is considerable. What approach should you take to this terrain?