AST 1 Ski/Snowboard
The first-step to accessing the backcountry is taking your AST 1. All courses will follow the same format whether it’s sledding, skiing or boarding. They are technically 2-day courses with the first day being an entirely online portion covering the basic theory of backcountry safety. It will consist of an on-line course sent to you to complete at your own convenience. The second day will be the practical application of the theory covered in the course out in the field (full day outside). During the field day we will cover group management, use of ski-touring gear, trip-planning, companion rescue, terrain management and snow assessment.
To see if the course is right for you click here for more information from Avalanche Canada: https://avalanche.ca/training#ast1



Itinerary
Day 1
Complete the online course at your own pace in the weeks leading up to your field day (5 – 6 hours). Take your time and break it up into portions. Have it done for the field day!
Day 2 (Revelstoke)
8:00 am – Morning session
9:00 am – Field session
4:30 pm – End of day
A few days before the field portion of the course there will be a reminder email sent out to go over the days plan, the gear to remember and general logistics.
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Ability to hike up-hill for 3 hours, intermediate or higher ski/snowboard ability. This translates to riding confidently on blue/black ski-hill runs. If there are concerns of skill-level reach out and we can certainly accommodate. This is not an introductory ski course- do not show up not having put your skins on your skis before.
Required Gear:
-Transceiver, Avalanche Probe and Avalanche Shovel.
-Skis/Splitboard, Climbing Skins, necessary outerwear for a full day in the field.
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Course material (decision-making handbook)
Access to the online course material
Professional instruction by CAA members and CSGA certified guides
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Lunch
Touring Fitness
Avalanche Rescue Equipment (Transceiver, Probe and Shovel)