*PAST EVENT* (BC) AST-1 Avalanche Skills Training Course – Whistler – ski/snowboard

Event Details

Sponsored by Parks Canada.

Registration is open to Allies!

Avalanche Skills Training Level 1 course (AST 1+) lead by Extremely Canadian, 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 the Avalanche Canada.

Please note this course requires touring skis or splitboard, skins & avalanche safety gear.

Suitable for advanced skiers and snowboarders. Comfortable in a variable conditions. With little or no touring experience. Ages 16 and older. All participants 18 & under must sign the safety voucher and wear a helmet.

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IMPORTANT:

With the increased spread of Omicron and in accordance with Provincial Health orders, all participants must be double vaccinated and show proof of vaccination in order to participate in our events so we can do our part to keep everyone as safe as possible and allow us to continue to hold events.

Participants must also wear mask when indoors, at all times and outdoors when we cannot stay 6 ft or more a part.

If you are feeling any flu-like symptoms before the event, please stay home.

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Course includes:

Five module videos to review prior to your Friday evening session, approximately 2 hours. Links will be sent at least 3 days before the course.

Friday: Evening ONLINE video-class session (6-8PM start)

• 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 in Whistler, BC(8:00am)

• 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 in Whistler, BC (8:00am)

• Companion rescue and evacuation procedures
• Practical run through of companion rescue in a avalanche scenario
• Practice leading group through Backcountry terrain

Additional information about the course

What you’ll need to bring/wear:

Avalanche Safety Gear*

• Metal avalanche Shovel
• Avalanche probe
• Avalanche Transceiver (We do not recommend Tracker 2)
• Ski touring backpack (25-30 litres)
• Undamaged Helmet

Layering & Extras

• Waterproof, breathable, non-insultated shell jacket and pants
• Warm non-cotton under layers
• Light fleece or equivalent
• Insulated (down/synthetic) jacket
• Goggles with spare lens (if applicable)
• Sunglasses and hat/toque for climbing
• Sunscreen and lip protection
• Headlamp (optional)
• Camera (optional)
• Lunch and water (at least 1 litre)

Transportation

• Touring skis or split-board with appropriate climbing skins
• Ski poles (with powder baskets) required for both skiers and snowboarders. Telescopic poles recommended for split-boarders
• Touring ski boots

Additional info about equipment and preparation

*Please reach out to [email protected] if you need a beacon, shovel and/or probe for this course.

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Photo & Video Release Consent:

By purchasing a ticket you grant permission for Colour the Trails and sponsors to use any portion of the photos or videos from this event that have been taken by Colour the Trails videographers and photographers for the purpose of sharing experiences with the community and encouraging future participation in events which can include but is not limited to, print or digital versions, social media and websites without any more compensation or recognition given. Colour the Trails will not use the photographs in a manner that would exploit or cause malicious representation toward you.

Please contact [email protected] BEFORE the event if you do not want wish to be photographed or on video during an event.