Avalanche Skills Training
Learn the skills to play safe this winter
Snow avalanches are the largest risk to winter backcountry users. Take our progressive Avalanche Skills Training (AST) program with professional instructors and be prepared for a winter of fun in the backcountry.
We've been offering reputable, mountain safety education since 1978. Our Avalanche Canada curriculum is instructed by highly-certified ACMG and CAA instructors and guides who live, work and play in the mountains.
Avalanche Safety Training Programs
AST 1 is an important introductory course for everyone who enjoys the mountains in winter.
For experienced skiers and riders, AST 2 will provide valuable knowledge and skills to improve your decision-making in avalanche terrain.
Looking for something different? We can also provide custom Avalanche Awareness talks or targeted field days.
Avalanche Skills Training 1
This course follows the Avalanche Canada curriculum for Avalanche Skills Training Level 1 (AST 1). This course is essential for anyone travelling in or around avalanche terrain in winter and is intended to be a first step toward safely managing backcountry travel. Avalanche Skills Training 1 is suitable for aspiring backcountry skiers and splitboarders, snowshoe hikers, ice and alpine climbers, and snowmobile enthusiasts.
Includes: Certified instructor, Avalanche Canada AST 1 certificate, and use of transceivers, shovels and probes.
Avalanche Skills Training 2
Avalanche Skills Training Level 2 (AST 2) is for skiers and riders who have taken a basic course, are comfortable in the backcountry, and want to further their mountain winter training. Over four days, learn advanced avalanche concepts and decision-making in the field, following the Avalanche Canada curriculum.
Prerequisite: 19+ (or 16+ with parent in course), AST 1 or equivalent, good physical condition and able to ski/ride safely under all snow conditions.
Includes: ACMG-certified guide, Avalanche Canada AST 2 certificate, use of transceivers, shovels and probes.
New to backcountry travel? You can take your AST 1 on snowshoes and then learn to be proficient on AT skis or a splitboard with our Intro to Backcountry Skiing and Riding
