Avalanche Skills Training 1+
Avalanche Skills Training 1+
Our Avalanche Skills Training Level 1 course (AST 1+) provides an entry-level decision-making framework for recreational skiers and snowboarders in winter backcountry avalanche terrain. This comprehensive 2.5 day program is a blend of practical field days with indoor theory and review based on curriculum as established by Avalanche Canada.
Please note this course requires touring skis or splitboard, skins & avalanche safety gear. If you require Backcountry rentals please let us know. For complete equipment list see below.
Official Supplier:
Price:
$359 + Taxes & Fees / person
DEAL ALERT: Add discounted lift tickets
Private Groups:
$2,149 + 5% GST
Courses are available for groups up to 8 people. Contact us to arrange dates!
Whistler Blackcomb Staff Deals:
Are you an active Whistler Blackcomb Winter employee? You can access select staff spots on courses throughout the season. You will need your active Employee ID to book, follow the link to your course!
All participants will be required to sign a waiver for each adventure; please review the document thoroughly prior to signing.
Looking for the perfect gift for that someone special? Check out our gift cards, give the gift of adventure! Dates:
Courses running every weekend starting Friday, Nov. 24, 2023 - Friday, Apr. 12, 2024.
*New*
Japanese-specific Course - Apr. 12 - 14, 2024
Hosted by the one and only Junichi Matsunaga
Mid-Week Courses:
Tuesday, Dec. 5-7, 2023
Monday, Dec. 11-13, 2023
Wednesday, Dec. 27-29, 2023
Tuesday, Jan. 2-4, 2024
Sunday, Feb. 18-20. 2024
Monday, Mar. 4-6, 2024
Wednesday, Mar. 20-22, 2024
What’s Included:
2.5 days with certified CAA members trained with Extremely Canadian
Lift line priority
Avalanche Canada AST 1 materials
Access to Extremely Canadian video modules throughout the whole season to review anytime
Ability Level:
Advanced Skiers and Snowboarders. Comfortable in variable conditions. With little or no touring experience.
*Group products are for skiers/riders 16 years of age or older. Privates are suited for any age of a level 5/6 skiing/riding ability.
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Five module videos to review prior to your Friday evening session, approximately 2 hour. Links will be sent at least 3 days before the course.
Friday:
Evening online session (6-8pm)-Study formation, nature and types of avalanches
Look at the effects of weather on snow stability
Evaluate past avalanches for causes and patterns
Preparing for backcountry travel, checking proper forecast/bulletins
Saturday:
All day field session (8:00am - 3pm)- Trip planning and terrain assessment using forecasts and observations
Identify and use best practices for moving through avalanche terrain
Brief discussion on snow science and layers by digging a snow pit
Beacons 101 and the procedures of companion rescue
Sunday:
All day field session (8:00am~3pm ish)
Companion rescue and evacuation procedures
Practical run-through of companion rescue in an avalanche scenario
Practice leading group through Backcountry terrain
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Q: What is the minimum ability I need to be?
A: If you can comfortably ski/ride an ungroomed black diamond then we have a group for you! Our programs are geared towards level 4-6 skiers and riders, from advanced-intermediate to Expert level.
Q: I’m driving up from the city Saturday morning, what to I do if i’m stuck in traffic?
A: We ask quests to meet us at the Carleton for 8AM, the groups leave by 8:30AM. If later than 8:45AM, you may need to reschedule your course. Please let us know if you are going to be running late.
Q: I have no backcountry experience and have not used avalanche safety gear, is this course for me?
A: YES! We will show you the way. The only requirement is to be able to ski or ride ungroomed black runs and walk uphill for about 1-2 hours.
Q: Does the price include a lift ticket?
A: The price does not include a lift ticket, but you can purchase for a discounted price while skiing with Extremely Canadian.
Q: What gear do I need for a Backcountry Adventure?
A: Please check out our “Equipment and Preparation” sheet on each Backcountry Adventure page.
Q: What if the conditions are less than ideal, does the clinic/tours go ahead?
A: For our Backcountry tours the guides, will deliberate about the conditions prior to the tour and the morning of to discuss the avalanche conditions. The avalanche conditions would have to be extremely dangerous for a Backcountry tour to get cancelled.
Q: Where in the village can I find Backcountry rentals?
A: We highly recommend Evo Backcountry for all your backcountry rentals. Rent the full package, with a discount when booking with Extremely Canadian.
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Avalanche Safety Gear (shovel, beacon, probe)
Skins
1L of water or more
Lunch with lots of snacks for on the go
Extra warm layers
Sunglasses and goggles
Sunscreen
Toque and hat
If you’re looking for a more detailed packing list, check out our “Equipment & Preparation”
Similar Products
Avalanche Skills Training 2
This course expands on the theories and principles established at the AST 1+ level. The program incorporates extensive practical field sessions in real avalanche terrain implementing a systematic approach for assessing and evaluating the potential avalanche hazard.
Crevasse Rescue / Glacier Travel
The two-day program provides the foundations of roped glacier travel and crevasse rescue. If you intend to spend any amount of time traveling in glaciated terrain this intensive and comprehensive course will be an invaluable tool in your belt.
The fine print.
Book in Advance
Guides are in high demand and low supply. Please book ahead to avoid disappointment.Late Arrival or Departures
Payment & Confirmation
All rates are quoted in Canadian currency and are subject to taxes. Full payment is due upon booking. Confirmation is made by email.
** Weather Conditions
Adventure travel involves risk and unpredictable weather conditions. Extremely Canadian does not purport to any guarantee of conditions. We retain the right to cancel at any time due to inclement weather or factors outside of our control. In this case the client will be entitled to a full refund.
Group Dynamics
We worry less about exact ratios but we endeavour to have a tight match of ability and inclination to provide tons of vertical and mileage while moving quickly and safely through terrain appropriate for the group. Ratios can be between 1:5 but are usually closer to 1:3. If we don’t have a group for you we will work to find another program that matches your ability or provide a full refund.
Insurance
We do not request proof of insurance coverage, but please ensure that you have appropriate coverage to ensure that you are adequately covered for any eventuality. We highly suggest that you purchase trip cancellation insurance to avoid penalties related to a change in plans.
If you require any clarifications on these important details, please contact us at ski@extremelycanadian.com or call 604-938-9656.
Epic Pass Holders
Do you have the following pass that is part of the Mountain rewards program? Passes include: Epic Pass, Epic Local Pass, Epic Day Pass, Epic Australia Pass etc. You are eligible for 10% off all Extremely Canadian group products. Group products include 2-Day Steeps Clinic, 1-Day Steeps Clinic, 2-Day Snowboarder Freeride Camps, Intro to Backcountry, AST 1+ & AST 2 courses. Use code EPIC10 when booking to get your 10% discount.
What you need to know before embarking on your day.
Meeting Time and Place
Meeting time is 8 AM on the deck of the Carleton Lodge in the main village between the gondolas unless otherwise noted in your confirmation.Payment and Confirmation
All rates are quoted in Canadian currency and are subject to taxes. Full payment is due upon booking. Confirmation is made by email.
Refunds
No refunds will be issued on whole or partially unused portions of packages. No refunds will be issued on day of lesson (medical reasons with a doctor’s note may be an exception).
Rescheduling Due to Low Numbers
Group adventures must meet a minimum group size of 3 persons. In rare instances, we may ask a guest to switch from a clinic or camp that has too few participants. If this happens we will attempt to notify you 24 hours prior to the date. However, we reserve the right to cancel any clinics or camps, for any reason, at any time prior to start. In such a case, refund of any payments received shall constitute full settlement.
Cancellation Policy
We totally understand if your plans change!
Here's the scoop on our Avalanche Skills Training courses cancellation policy: Up to 7 days prior to your course, you will receive a 90% refund or you can choose to reschedule your course dates or opt for a 100% credit to be used in the future. All modification requests must be made within Extremely Canadian’s operating hours by email or phone at least 7 days prior to your online session date. However, please note that once alterations have been made to your original course dates, refunds will not be allowed. If you are cancelling your course due to illness/injury within 7 days, you may be required to present medical documentation to complete the refund.
For private courses, up to 14 days prior to your activity date, you will receive a 90% refund or you can choose to reschedule your course dates or opt for a 100% credit to be used in the future. All modification requests must be made within Extremely Canadian’s operating hours by email or phone at least 14 days prior to the start of your course. However, please note that once alterations have been made to your original course dates, refunds will not be allowed.
End of Day
Guides will determine the end of day. Many factors will be considered when doing so.Insurance
We do not request proof of insurance coverage, but please ensure that you have appropriate coverage to ensure that you are adequately covered for any eventuality. We highly suggest that you purchase trip cancellation insurance to avoid penalties related to a change in plans.
Behaviour Expectations
Guests are expected to behave in an orderly fashion and not to disrupt the enjoyment of other guests or in anyway harm the reputation of Extremely Canadian or its suppliers. Extremely Canadian reserves the right to decline accepting or retaining any guest whose health or actions impede the operation of a clinic or camp or the welfare or enjoyment of fellow guests.
Underage Participants
Group programs are for guests aged 16 and older. All clients 18 & under must sign the safety voucher and wear a helmet.
Waiver
You will be required to sign and return a waiver and release of liability and a medical form before your first day of skiing. Below is a copy of the waiver for your review.
If you require any clarifications on these important details, please contact us at ski@extremelycanadian.com or call 604-938-9656.
