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AST Level 1

Avalanche Skills Training - Level 1

For Skiers and Snowboarders A 2.5 day course specifically for skiers and snowboarders, involving a mix of theory and practical skills to teach you basic safety knowledge for winter backcountry travel. This is the most comprehensive AST - 1 course available in the Whistler area. Enjoy some fresh turns while learning about:

  • formation of avalanches
  • factors affecting snow-pack
  • route finding
  • safety equipment usage
  • snow-pack observation and assessment

Participants must be at least an intermediate skier or snowboarder. If you are unsure of your ability, please contact us for more information.

Dates: 

Weekend Dates: (Fri, Sat, Sun)

  • Offered EVERY weekend from November 27, 2009 to mid April, 2010

Midweek Dates:

  • December 21 - 23, 2009 (Mon, Tues, Wed)
  • December 28 - 30, 2009 (Mon, Tues, Wed)
  • January 5 - 7, 2010 (Tues, Wed, Thurs)
  • January 18 - 20, 2010 (Mon, Tues, Wed)
  • February 2 - 4, 2010 (Tues, Wed, Thurs)
  • February 8 - 10, 2010 (Mon, Tues, Wed)
  • March 8 - 10, 2010 (Mon, Tues, Wed)
  • March 23 - 25, 2010 (Tues, Wed, Thurs)
  • April 12 - 14, 2010 (Mon, Tues, Wed)
Cost: 

$220.00 + gst

Receive 10% off any additional ski/snowboard program in the 2009 / 2010 season upon completion of the course. (excluding private guiding)

Included: 

Course manual, avaluator booklet, handout package, and completion certificate.

In an effort to keep course prices low, participants are responsible to provide their own equipment and lift access.

Rentals are available at a discounted rate to registered participants.

Backcountry passes also available.

Location: 
Backcountry adjacent to Whistler and Blackcomb ski areas
Ratio: 
Maximum 8:1 student to instructor
Details: 

The course schedule is as follows:

  • Day 1: 6:30pm - 9:30pm (theory)
  • Day 2: 8am - 7pm (field & theory)
  • Day 3: 8am - 5pm (field & debrief)

Participants must pick up their rental equipment before the course begins. Participants are to provide their own food and water for the course days. Equipment Rentals

Suggested Prerequisites: 

Strong intermediate skier/snowboarder ability level - comfortable and confident on blue runs in a variety of snow conditions. No backcountry touring experience is required.

Equipment List:

Please consult the following for information on recommended and provided equipment:

Avalanche Skills Training Level I