I highly recommend that all God-Fearing, Deer Killing, Packer Backing, Cheeselanders who plan to drive out West to ride this season getcherasses into one of Mike's classes. I am not in any way affiliated.
Take my word for it, grew up riding in WI. Moved West and have been riding in the Mtns for a handfull of seasons now. Most of the crew I ride with have been through Mr. Duffy's class more than once. (twice so far for me) I still managed to make some mistakes and get myself into an Avy a couple years back. Was very lucky and rode out of it, but had I not been able to the guys I was with were trained well and knew what to do to save my dumb arse...
Sledding out West is mostly a team sport.
Think of it this way:
It is like hunter's safety... and you and your riding buddies are the 12 year old city kids who just got shiny new 30:06's and a bucket of ammunition.
Get the training, get the gear, then get to having fun!