Avalanche Skills Training Level 2 (AST2) for Skiers and Boarders

2024 Course Details

For 2024 we are booking private group AST2 courses only. If you are an individual that would like to team up with a group let us know and we will put your name on a list of prospective students.

Class size is limited to 5 participants per course.

AST2 course fees includes the Decision Making in Avalanche Terrain Fieldbook and the Avaluator trip planning tool.

The course fees do not include transportation, hut rental and food. Carpooling by students is encouraged and meals at the cabin will be organized as a group effort.

Course fees are non-refundable. It is recommended that you purchase trip cancellation insurance. We use Lifestyle Financial for our own trip insurance needs.

Course Description

The AST 2 is the recognized intermediate/advanced level avalanche safety course for recreational backcountry users in Canada. This is primarily a field based practical course. Lessons and discussions first thing in the morning are followed by full days in the mountains.

Prerequisites

Participants should have completed an AST1 or similar introductory level avalanche safety course or have had prior learning and experience. Intermediate to advanced backcountry skiing/riding skills in all snow conditions are required as well as fitness for strenuous days in the mountains.. Please contact us to discuss your qualifications if you are unsure whether this course is for you.

Classroom Sessions

We will spend a full day in the classroom at UNBC. Topics of discussion that will prepare us for the field days will include:

• Human Behaviours, Decision Making, and Risk

• Avalanche Theory

• Companion Rescue

• Trip Planning, avalanche forecast, weather forecast, group and gear.

• Verification of Conditions

• Good Travel Habits

• Slope Evaluation
  
  Indoor Sessions
  
  Mornings begin with weather observations and discussions on how the past, present and forecasted weather may affect snow stability. Objectives and routes for the day are planned.
  

  After the field portion of the day the day is debriefed. Observations are summarized and the morning’s snow stability assessment is updated accordingly. Possible objectives for the next day are discussed.
  
  Outdoor Sessions

• Advanced Avalanche Transceiver Training and Practice

• Leadership and Safe Travel in Avalanche Terrain

• Companion Rescue

• Assessing Avalanche Terrain

• Snowpack Observations and Tests

Emphasis will be on practicing what is presented, with participants taking an active part in preparing for and leading the daily excursions. Daily discussions of snowpack, terrain and weather factors present, and how they affect avalanche danger, will play an important role in selecting the travel objectives for the field portions of the course.

To Register: please click here

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