Avalanche Skills Training

Level 1

For Skiers, Boarders and Snowshoers

Winter 2023-24 course dates and details.

AST1 for snowshoers: December 16-17, 2023 $367.50

AST1 for skiers and split boarders: January 6-7, 2024 $367.50

AST1 for skiers and split boarders: January 13-14, 2024 $367.50

We can also provide private courses for your own group. Contact us for details.

Course Description

The AST1 course curriculum has been developed by Avalanche Canada. It is the recognized introductory level avalanche safety course for recreational backcountry users in Canada. It is a prerequisite for the AST2 and for Canadian Avalanche Association Industry Training courses.

Course Venues

Day 1 is primarily a classroom sessions which take place at UNBC in Prince George. We also go outside for a short time to familiarize the class with avalanche rescue equipment.

Classroom Sessions

  • Formation and Nature of Avalanches

  • Recognizing Avalanche Terrain and Terrain Traps

  • Introduction to the Mountain Snowpack

  • Avalanche Danger Ratings

  • The Avaluator Trip Planning and Slope Evaluation Tool

  • Understanding Avalanche Bulletins

  • Trip Planning

  • Avalanche Rescue Equipment

  • Human Factors Affecting Decision Making in Avalanche Terrain

Day 2 takes place in the local mountains of Prince George. It is a full day outside putting to use the skills that were introduced in the classroom sessions.

Field Sessions

  • Safe Travel Practices

  • Recognizing and Evaluating Avalanche Terrain

  • Snowpack Observations and Tests

  • Small Party Self Rescue

The field day will be a full day. Participants must be prepared to spend the day out in a mountain environment in whatever weather Mother Nature provides. Adequate fitness and skills to travel substantial distances both uphill and downhill through variable snow conditions are required.

Required Equipment

  • Avalanche beacon, probe and shovel, (a limited number of these will be available for rent, $20 for the weekend

  • Alpine touring or telemark skis or splitboard with skins or Snowshoes.

  • Clothing suitable for the conditions expected

To Register: please click here

The courses have limited spaces available and fill up early. Full payment is required to secure your spot. Course fees are non-refundable. It is recommended that you purchase cancellation insurance.

Questions? Contact Craig at 250-961-3501 or craig@dezaikoalpine.com.