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Alaska Avalanche Safety: AAIC 2026 Milestones & Backcountry Support

The Alaska Avalanche Information Center (AAIC) is calling on Alaska outdoor enthusiasts to support its vital work in enhancing backcountry safety, following a year of significant milestones and a growing demand for avalanche resources across the state. Since its founding in 2008, the AAIC has been the cornerstone of avalanche forecasting, education, and preparedness, continually evolving to meet the needs of a rapidly expanding winter backcountry community. As we head into 2026, sustained support is critical to maintain the administrative and operational backbone that allows regional avalanche centers to thrive and ensures public access to life-saving information.

Chugach Backcountry Safety Updates & AAIC Achievements

For those exploring the stunning, yet challenging, terrain of Chugach State Park and beyond, the AAIC’s work directly impacts your safety. This past year, the AAIC hit several major milestones that are already making a difference for Alaska hikers, skiers, and snowmachiners. They successfully adopted the National Avalanche Forecast Platform for both Valdez and Haines, streamlining access to crucial predictive data. Their Backcountry Preparedness Program, a collaborative effort with DPS, AK State Troopers, and Alaska Safe Riders, reached over 5,600 participants, a testament to the increasing awareness of Alaska avalanche safety. Furthermore, the completion and operation of the Gulkana Glacier Weather Station, thanks to a grant from the Avalanche Alliance, provides critical real-time data for a key recreational area. These advancements directly benefit anyone venturing into avalanche terrain, from the popular winter routes near Turnagain Pass to the more remote peaks of the Chugach and Wrangell-St. Elias ranges.

What Backcountry Users Can Do to Support Safety

The continued growth in winter backcountry recreation underscores the urgent need for robust avalanche safety resources. To ensure you and your fellow adventurers can “Live to Ride Another Day,” the AAIC encourages active participation and support. One tangible way they’ve made education more accessible is by providing funding to reduce registration fees for Avalanche Fundamental courses to just $25. These courses, taught by the Alaska Avalanche School in Valdez, Haines, Fairbanks, and Cordova, are essential for anyone planning to travel in avalanche terrain. Beyond education, supporting the AAIC’s Annual Fund helps secure consistent operational support for Regional Avalanche Centers and ensures public access to the resources needed to make informed decisions. Your contributions directly fund essential services, from forecasting to equipment like the new snowmachine for the Valdez Avalanche Center.

Alaska Outdoor Context

Alaska’s vast and wild landscape offers unparalleled opportunities for outdoor adventure, but it also demands respect for its dynamic conditions. The