AVALANCHE SKILLS TRAINING LEVEL 1 - SKIERS & SNOWBOARDERS

This two and a half day introductory avalanche course is for individuals who are interested in recreational skiing and snowboarding in the backcountry. The course is the starting point in avalanche education for recreational users of avalanche terrain. The program combines theory and practical sessions to teach you basic safety knowledge for winter backcountry travel. The national course standards are set out by the Canadian Avalanche Centre. The curriculum, instructional material, course content, and student handbooks are developed and provided by the Canadian Avalanche Centre. This course is a prerequisite for the Canadian Avalanche Association (CAA) Level 1 Certification Program.

Course topics include the formation and nature of avalanches, avalanche terrain recognition, an introduction to snow stability and mountain snowpack, winter backcountry travel and self rescue. The Avaluator - a systematic decision-making tool - is also incorporated into the course curriculum.

Our instructors are qualified and experienced professionals who work and play in the outdoor environment. The AST Level 1 course instructors are trained by the Canadian Avalanche Association (CAA) industry training programs and are active or professional members of the Canadian Avalanche Association (CAA). We maintain an 8:1 student to instructor ratio.

Schedule:

Course Details:Two course manuals (Backcountry Avalanche Awareness & The Avaluator) and a course completion certificate are included in the course. Our theory sessions are held at the Alpenglow Hotel. The fieldwork sessions are conducted within and just outside the ski area boundaries of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Participants are responsible to provide their own equipment and lift access for the fieldwork. Rentals are available at a discounted rate to registered participants at Excess Backcountry located in the Crystal Lodge. Participants must be at least an intermediate skier or snowboarder. If you are unsure of your ability, please call 604 902-1464 for more information.

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT TO BRING TO DAY ONE - EVENING THEORY SESSION:

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT TO BRING TO DAY TWO AND THREE - FIELD DAYS:

Rentals: Backcountry touring and avalanche safety equipment is available for rent at Excess Backcountry at a discounted rate with proof of course registration. Please pick-up rental equipment on Day 1 of the course before the beginning of the classroom session.

Rental Equipment Price List:

Package Rates:

Prices are based on a two day rental for the course fieldwork and only apply for those participants registered in a Pacific Alpine Institute program. GST & PST apply to all rental items.