Avalanche skills training (AST) - Level 1

Learn from the Sea to Sky's leading avalanche skills educator.

Learn from the Sea to Sky’s leading avalanche skills educator. Receive the latest Avalanche Skills Training (AST) safety and rescue skills with our expert instruction. Our AST instructors are highly skilled and are constantly upgrading their knowledge so you receive the best and most up-to-date skills and tips to keep you safe as you explore the backcountry.

Keep building your avalanche skills with our progression of courses. Start with an Intro to Backcountry tours are available to get comfortable with your gear and moving through ungroomed snow.

AST Level 1 Courses

Nov - Apr

AST 1 Whistler

Duration: 2 Days

Prerequisites: Average Fitness & Intermediate Skier

The first step in Avalanche Canada’s Avalanche Skills Program, AST1 will build fundamental skills for safe travel through the mountains.

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Nov - Apr

AST 1 Online

Duration: 1.5 Days

Prerequisites: Average Fitness & Intermediate Skier

For students who prefer to learn online in advance, followed by one day in the field.

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AST 1+ Whistler

Duration: 2 Days

Prerequisites: Good Fitness & Intermediate Skier

AST1+ adds an extra day to AST1 spent in the field practicing and refining critical skills.

Nov - Apr

AST 1 Squamish

Duration: 2 Days

Prerequisites: Average Fitness & Intermediate Skier

The leading avalanche skills provider in the Sea-to-Sky region also offers AST1 training in Squamish. Enjoy the same high-quality training without having to travel far!

Nov - Apr

Women's AST 1

Duration: 2 Days

Prerequisites: Average Fitness & Intermediate Skier

As part of our Women’s Backcountry Series, AST1 will develop essential skills for safe travel in the mountains.

Nov - Apr

Teen AST 1+ Whistler

Duration: 2 Days

Prerequisites: Average Fitness & Intermediate Skier

MSAA’s Teen AST guides have the specific skills and experience needed to work with youth aged 13 to 16, laying the groundwork for a lifetime of backcountry fun.

Nov - Apr

Avalanche Skills Refresher

Duration: 1 Day

Prerequisites: Average Fitness, AST 1

Is your backcountry skillset getting rusty? Join an AST1 field day to refresh your fundamental knowledge and skills.

Nov - Apr

Introduction to Backcountry

Duration: 1 Day

Prerequisites: Average Fitness & Intermediate Skier

There is no better place in the world to learn backcountry skiing than Whistler, and our guides will ensure you have an enjoyable and educational day.

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UNSURE WHICH COURSE TO TAKE?

Have a question about one of our courses, guided trips or tour? Speak with one of our expert guides today.