• Our AST 1 + Intro to Backcountry course takes place over TWO FIELD DAYS with one of our instructors in the Big White backcountry. A self study online course (3-4 hrs) is required to be completed prior to arriving at the field day.

• While most operations offer a single field day for the AST 1, we believe more is better. We’ve designed the course so that we spend our days in the snow, touring and working on our skills, instead of in a classroom.

• This is the perfect course to introduce you to backcountry skiing in avalanche terrain. We want you to feel well prepared for decision making in avalanche terrain after our course. We strive to provide the best entry-to-backcountry education out there.

• Self Study Online Learning (3-4 hrs) - Required before arriving to the field day. A link will be provided at checkout

• Online meeting | 7 - 8pm - Evening before the field day - We’ll answer questions, review the avalanche forecast, create a trip plan

• Day 1 | 8:00am - 4:00pm - Avalanche rescue training

• Day 2 | 8:00am - 4:00pm - Navigation & Route finding, Snow Science

The standard AST 1 curriculum includes the basics of:

• Avalanche formation and release.

• How to identify avalanche terrain.

• The basics of trip planning.

• How to use the avalanche forecast to mitigate your avalanche risk.

• Using appropriate travel techniques in avalanche terrain.

• Intro to companion rescue.

Our second field day allows for the additional benefit of:

• Additional companion rescue scenarios

• Intro to touring (learn to use your gear and skinning techniques)

• Intro to snow science (we’ll show you how to dig your own pit and perform your own tests)

• Time dedicated to route selection and taking turns route finding & leading the group

A full refund, less processing fee, is available up to 21 days prior to course start date. Less than 21 days prior to course start date, a 50% refund is available.

*If you cannot attend a course, but you can find a friend to take your spot that works for us to!

All students are required to complete the AST Provider Release Waiver, as well as have a parent/guardian complete the Acknowledgement of Risk Waiver for students under the age of 19.

Local ski area waivers may apply for lift access.

• Riding Ability:

  • Intermediate skiing/riding ability is recommended, especially some experience with deeper snow conditions.

• Fitness:

  • We estimate each field day to be between 3-6km in distance and 300-500m elevation gain. Participants should know if this is within their hiking abilities. We do not move at a fast pace. (We strive to make the course accessible to everyone!)

Required:

• Backpack, Transceiver, Shovel, Probe

• Touring Skis, Splitboard or Snowhoes with downhill equipment

Review our AST-1 Packing List for other recommendations on what to bring to ensure you’re prepared for success!

• We may have limited avalanche safety gear available for rent (Transceiver, Shovel, Probe) - Email us and let us know what you need and we’ll see what we can do.

• Touring Skis, splitboards and avalanche safety gear are all available locally at Mountain Lifestyle Outlets