Professional Observers

Aaron Hartz
COAA Observer

Aaron is an Oregon native and started skiing at a young age. After being introduced to backcountry skiing, he started climbing and skiing the Cascade Volcanoes to prolong the ski season. He is currently a guide at Oregon Ski Guides and Timberline Mountain Guides. Aaron is AAI Level 3 trained and a professional member of the American Avalanche Association. He is passionate about skiing and snow safety, and excited to be involved with COAA.
Gabe Coler
COAA Observer

Originally from rural Massachusetts, Gabe grew up climbing and skiing through the beautiful hardwood forests of New England. After moving to Washington to earn a BA in Economics from Whitman College, he relocated to Central Oregon in 2003 to work as a rock climbing guide at Smith Rock.

“Once I saw how much snow we get in the Cascades, I was hooked on living here year round! I can’t get enough of storm skiing through quiet old growth forests.”

Now Gabe lives in Bend with his family and their puppy Shea. He works year-round as a mountain guide and instructor. During the winter he teaches AIARE avalanche awareness courses and enjoys helping folks explore the Oregon backcountry. He is AIARE Level 3 trained, and is a course leader/instructor on the Level 1 and 2 courses for Three Sisters Backcountry. Additionally he is a professional member of the American Avalanche Association.
Jonas Tarlen
COAA Observer

Jonas has been touring and decision making in Central Oregon's backcountry since 2001. He is a backcountry hut operator, guide, and avalanche instructor with Three Sisters Backcountry, Inc. He has been teaching AIARE avalanche courses and guided skiing for the past decade. His love of skiing and breadth of experience teaching, guiding, and touring in the Central Oregon backcountry make him an excellent addition to the Pro Observer network.