This workshop provides a practical overview of the GIS and Earth observation datasets most commonly used for recreational, pre-trip avalanche terrain assessment, particularly within North America. Designed for practitioners, educators, and tool developers working in avalanche terrain and backcountry mapping, the session focuses on how modern datasets are created, processed, and interpreted and how those choices affect real-world decision making. 

We'll begin with a technical walkthrough of publicly available elevation and imagery data. Topics include LiDAR and non-LiDAR digital elevation models, satellite-based imagery such as Sentinel and other Earth observation systems, and the strengths and weaknesses of different data sources.  Building on this foundation, the session will look at interpretation and application. We'll explore data limitations, the risk of over-confidence and heuristic traps—particularly for less experienced users—and how responsible choices can better convey uncertainty. 

Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of what common GIS and Earth observation datasets can reliably support in avalanche terrain planning, how to critically interpret derived terrain products, and how thoughtful design and communication can promote safer, more informed use of mapping tools in backcountry decision making. 

Organizer: Matt Jacobs, CalTopo, mjacobs@caltopo.com