Hut Based Avalanche Skills Training 2 (AST 2)

The AST-2 curriculum is designed to build on the fundamentals learned in AST-1 and personal backcountry experience to provide students with advanced skills for further exploration. Students will spend a full four days and three nights with an ACMG/IFMGA CAA Level 2 guide, learning in the field and in the hut over the duration of the trip.

Our guides will demonstrate new methods for observing terrain, planning for safe and efficient travel, conducting in-depth snow analysis and snow stability tests, preparing for challenging objectives or multi-day adventures, and adopting a broader approach to risk management strategies.

Progress from a novice backcountry traveller to someone who plans and thinks like a guide with this comprehensive four-day course. AST 2 includes Avalanche Canada curriculum complemented with custom MSAA material to enhance your learning experience.

Course includes:

• Avalanche Skills Training Level 2 Certificate (upon successful completion)
• Decision Making in Avalanche Terrain Fieldbook
• Canadian Avalanche Association Mandatory Student Fee
• Use of Snow Study Kit with Thermometer, Crystal Screen and Loupe
• Recommended Reading: Students are encouraged to purchase ‘Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain’ to aid their learning

Lift Ticket *Day 1 only: If you do NOT currently possess a valid Whistler Blackcomb lift ticket (Seasons Pass, Spirit Pass, Edge Card, Epic Pass, etc.), you may buy a Lift Ticket through our office at checkout.

Food: Please note that food is not included in this course.

**All Courses are subject to a minimum number of participants. 48-hour notice will be given if the minimum number has not been reached.**

Day 1: Travel to Hut – 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

You will meet at the designated meeting spot, where the guide will lead a short briefing to discuss current conditions and weather. The guide will also ensure that all students have signed waivers, conduct a gear check, and review companion rescue skills. After this, you will begin your trip to the hut. The day will end with a debrief, homework assignments, some handouts, and a list of resources.

Day 2-3: Mixed Classroom & Field Learning Days – 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

You will apply the skills you learn during your “classroom” time in practical scenarios. The days will end at approximately 4:30 pm with homework and debrief discussion.

Day 4: Mixed Classroom & Field Learning Day + Return from Hut – 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

You will apply the skills you learn during your “classroom” time in practical scenarios. The days will end at approximately 4:30 pm with a course debrief and a discussion of the steps you can take after completing your AST2.

Rentals/Purchase:

If you require rentals we have teamed up with local companies to provide discounted rates. Visit our rental page HERE for more information!

Days 1-4: (Hut Learning)

• Pen (we will not be providing)
• Paper/notebook
• Laptop (optional)

Day 1-4: (Field Days): Dress appropriately for the conditions.

• Touring skis or splitboard and skins
• Poles (telescopic poles required for splitboarders)
• Ski / snowboard boots
• Lift pass
• 45L + pack
• Light Sleeping Bag
• Food + Water
• Headlamp with fresh batteries
• Water bottle(s) (Minimum 1L capacity)
• Multi-tool
• Sunglasses, sunscreen
• Goggles & Helmet
• Personal Care Kit (toilet paper, toothbrush/toothpaste, personal medical drugs)
• General Repair Kit: to repair packs, clothing, etc.
• Blister kit/First Aid
• Avalanche safety kit
• Harness (optional depending on location)
• Glacier travel kit (optional depending on location and only if you know crevasse rescue)
• Ski and/or boot crampons depending on conditions and objective
• Mountaineering axe depending on conditions and objective

Optional:

• Thermos
• Ear Plugs
• Reading Material
• Camera
• Bandana
• Map, compass, GPS
• Field book and pencil
• Watch (with altimeter, barometer, compass, thermometer)
• Hut Booties/Slippers

Day 1 :

• AST1 Review
• Group Leadership
• Avalanche Types
• Terrain Management Techniques
• The Avalanche Forecast
• Trip Planning
• Avalanche Danger Exceptions
• Companion Rescue Theory

Day 2:

• Trailhead Procedures
• Obtaining Field Observations
• Advanced Companion Rescue
• The Bulletin & Avalanche Problems
• Perform Snowpack Test
• Situational Awareness & Leadership
• Recognizing Terrain Transitions
• Recognizing Avalanche Hazard Areas
• Safe Travel Techniques & Group Management
• Snow Stability Test
• Snowpack & Weather Recording

Homework:

• Local Avalanche Bulletin
• Weather Forecast
• Mountain Conditions Report
• Field Findings

Day 3:

• Leadership in Avalanche Terrain
• Independent Safety Decision Making
• Safe Track Setting
• Situational Awareness & Leadership
• Safe Travel Techniques & Group Management
• Advanced Companion Rescue

Homework:

• Local Avalanche Bulletin
• Weather Forecast
• Mountain Conditions Report
• Field Findings

Day 4:

• Recap of lessons from previous two days
• Dealing with Terrain Crux
• Course Debrief
• Final Safety Discussion
• Next Steps: Mountain Navigation, Crevasse Rescue, Ski Mountaineering

Click HERE for the full curriculum.