Avalanche Programs
2024-25 AST courses are open for registration. Select your course below for full details and registration links.
We continue to offer the most comprehensive AST program available for the 2024-25 season, supported by our team of amazing professional Instructors and Guides. All Avalanche Skills programs are directly supervised by Canada West Mountain School owner Brian Jones, an ACMG Mountain Guide and Canadian Avalanche Association Professional Member.
AST-1
We have been conducting the highest quality Avalanche Skills Training courses for over 40 years and we continue offering the most innovative and cutting edge AST courses in the Whistler, Sea to Sky and North Shore Mountain regions! Designed specifically for the needs of skiers and boarders in Whistler, our AST-1 also includes 3-hours of engaging self-paced training in the Canada West Virtual Classroom before your 2-days in the backcountry. This combo allows us to deliver the best Avalanche Skills Training experience available!
AST-2
If you prefer your own trail rather than following tracks, our AST 2 course is the Avalanche training program for you. Taught exclusively by industry experts who are Professional Members of the Canadian Avalanche Association, our AST-2 is designed for skiers and boarders seeking adventures that require travel in Challenging or Complex Terrain. On the Canada West Mountain School AST-2 you will visit multiple different backcountry locations, including Whistler, Blackcomb and the Duffey Lake backcountry region.
AST-Refresher
Our unique AST Upgrade provides an opportunity to practice and refine your travel and decision-making skills in bigger alpine terrain than typically found on the AST-1 courses. Whether you take this as a refresher session or as an opportunity to build on your existing skills, this course will also help you keep up with new techniques, research, and safety tips. – terrain evaluation, mountain weather, snowpack observations, and the latest search techniques. Great for everyone who has taken an AST-1 course in the past.
Avalanche First Aid
Our unique 2-day Companion Rescue course includes training on Wilderness First Aid topics specific to avalanche victims – cold injuries, trauma and transport considerations in winter environment. Avalanche Rescue and First aid combined are essential skills required to respond effectively to an avalanche incident. Ideal for Skiers, snowboarders and Mountaineers who want to strengthen their ability to perform a quick and efficient rescue and work on their Avalanche Rescue skills.
