AST 1 – North Vancouver
World leading curriculum developed by Avalanche Canada taught by our highly experienced local instructors. This course is THE standard for anyone looking to get into the backcountry skiing and split-boarding. This course will set you up with avalanche theory and the tools for making smart decisions in the backcountry. Learn the most up to date techniques in the industry for avalanche companion rescue.
The course is comprised of: 4-6 hour online course at your own pace, online meeting the evening before your field day, and 1 full field day in the backcountry with your instructor. On the field day, we will review the online course content and then dive right into a full day of field based learning.
Who’s it for?
- New backcountry skiers or split-boarders
- Fitness for up to 2-3 hours of travel per day
- Must be able to confidently ski or ride a blue run inbounds in ALL CONDITIONS
What you’ll learn:
- Avalanche Theory: formation and release
- Companion Rescue
- Avalanche Safety Technology: Airbags, Transceivers, Probes, Shovels
- Human Factors
- Terrain Identification
- Avalanche Danger Ratings
- Snowpack Analysis
- Avaluator System
- Understanding Public Avalanche Bulletins
- Weather Tools
Itinerary:
- Online Course: 4-6 hour online avalanche theory course. Complete at your own pace during the week prior to field session.
- Online Meeting: 7PM on evening before field day (Attendance Mandatory)
- Field Day: 7AM – 4PM Mount Seymour Park.
- NOTE: In the event that the conditions at Mt Seymour are unworkable for the course, Whistler/Blackcomb will be used as an alternative location. Students are responsible for additional costs including transportation and backcountry lift ticket (approximately $45+tax).
Important: You will be required to sign a paper waiver at the commencement of the activity.
North Vancouver – Scheduled Courses – 2024/25 Season
I have read and agree with the RELEASE OF LIABILITY, WAIVER OF CLAIMS, ASSUMPTION OF RISKS AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT
Nov 30, 2024 to March 29, 2025 | $225 CAD (Mid Week) and $275 (Weekends) | BOOK NOW (WAIVER CHECKBOX ABOVE REQUIRED) |
Private courses available on request. Contact us at info@bcskiguides.com for more information.
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You will need the following gear for your course, contact us if you need any recommendations:
- Alpine touring boots, skis or split-board, poles, skins
- Avalanche kit: transceiver (digital), probe, shovel
- Medium sized backpack (20 to 30l)
- Lunch, snacks, & water
- Helmet is recommended
- Ski googles
- Sun glasses
- Sun screen
- Headlamp
- Warm clothing and down jacket for lunch break
- Goretex Jacket & Pants
- Extra gloves and touque
- Smartphone with GPS mapping program installed (Gaia recommended)
- Basic first aid and blister kit
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Where can I get Ski Touring Gear Rentals for my course?
Valhalla Pure Squamish: Ski Touring Gear Rentals
EVO Whistler: Ski Touring Gear Rentals
Vancouver: There are no backcountry ski or splitboard rentals to our knowledge in Vancouver. Let us know if you find some!