The AST 1 - Avalanche Skills Training course is the long-established standard in introductory avalanche education. This course is designed to bring resort skiers into the backcountry with the foundational skills to understand avalanche formations and proper backcountry travel.
Book NowDo you want to ski in the backcountry? Do you have intermediate or higher ski ability? Do you like learning in a group setting?
This course is for anyone who wants to make sure they are taking the appropriate steps to make smart decisions in the backcountry and the skills to ski fun lines. It will also give student the prerequisites to pursue more advance professional or recreational avalanche training.
** Half day of online learning to be completed in the week leading up to your field day
Ability to hike uphill for 3 hours, Intermediate ski ability (confidence on blue square runs)
Companion rescue, Snow assessment, Group management, Use of ski touring gear
** 0.5 day online program to be completed before the 1 day in the field
Our AST 1 course is unique in that we are teaching participants the basic skills of avalanche phenomena, assessment, avoidance, and ski touring skills to access the backcountry. This course will cover both pillars of safe and efficient backcountry travel.
Avalanche Skills Training
Avalanche Statistics
This course is for those who are new to backcountry skiing/ split boarding or those with limited backcountry experience. Prerequisites include:
Whistler/Blackcomb Lift Ticket - $49 / day
Crevasse Rescue + Glacier Travel Online Course - $45
Day 0.5 (Online)
Complete online learning at your own pace in the week leading up to your field day (3-4 hours)
Day 1 (Whistler or Squamish)
8:00 am – Morning session
9:00 am – Field session
4:30 pm – Return to cars
Whistler field day: If you do not have a seasons pass, backcountry passes are available for purchase at checkout.
Squamish field days: Chains are required by BC parks to access the meeting location.
Unique to Altus AST courses is our custom made #altusonlinelearning platform with over 13 courses available. Each course is built and instructed by one of our guides and is used to ensure you get the most out of your time in the field.
The AST 1 pre-course takes approximately 3 – 4 hours to complete and is a series of videos and presentations followed up with a final exam. The final exam requires a 60% pass to receive the AST 1 certificate.
Students will have access to this course for learning to revisit for 2 months from sign up.
