Exploding Avalanches with Jake Hutchinson

Tactical Alpinism

Explosive avalanche initiation started with the military. Now there is a whole industry wrapped around keeping us safe in snowy environments, where we often don't think we may be at risk.

This podcast explores the high-stakes art and science of avalanche mitigation, offering an insider’s perspective on the precision and expertise required to navigate dangerous terrain. The speaker breaks down the meticulous planning behind ski cuts, emphasizing the importance of moving between safety zones, using tools like airbags and self-arrest poles, and maintaining clear communication to avoid deadly errors.

Ski cutting, a skill honed over years of apprenticeship, is portrayed as essential yet risky. The speaker advises practicing on smaller slopes to master techniques before tackling major avalanche zones. Explosives play a significant role, with strategies evolving to target weak spots and minimize danger while triggering controlled avalanches.

Listeners gain insight into the differing priorities of ski resorts, Backcountry cat-skiing operations, and highway safety teams. Resorts aim to maintain snow for guests, while highways focus on clearing hazards efficiently. Throughout, the podcast highlights the delicate balance between tradition, emerging research, and split-second decision-making that keeps professionals—and those they protect—alive in avalanche-prone environments.

Jake Hutchinson is entering his third decade working as a snow professional – from ski patrolling and avalanche forecasting in the Wasatch Mountains to operational forecasting for the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park and extensive work with WBR, C-RAD and other US SAR, Military and K9 organizations. Jake has been an AAI course leader for 20+ years and currently works as a Pro course leader and AAI’s Curriculum Director. He has served in various roles on the A3 Governing Board since 2009 and currently sits on the Executive Committee as the Membership Trustee. Jake is a Veteran of the United States Marine Corps and founding member of the Warriors Healing Network. Snowmobiles, dirt bikes, dogs and knife-making take up the majority of his time away from skis.

Find more about avalanches and from Jake through AAI and the Avalanche Hour Podcast.

Avalanche Hour: https://www.theavalanchehour.com/

AAI: https://www.americanavalancheinstitute.com/instructor/jake-hutchinson-2/