Avalanche Skills Training 1 (AST 1)

Avalanche Canada’s AST 1 gives backcountry skiers, splitboarders and snowshoers the knowledge to plan trips, recognize avalanche terrain and respond to an avalanche involvement. Combines classroom sessions with a full field day in the Canadian Rockies.

What to Expect

• Avalanche formation and terrain recognition
• Trip planning with avalanche forecasts
• Companion rescue with transceiver, probe and shovel
• Field day in avalanche terrain

What’s Included

• Avalanche Canada certified instructor
• Avalanche Canada AST 1 certificate on completion

Course Details

• Schedule: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM daily
• Location: Canmore classroom plus a field day in Kananaskis
• Prerequisites: able to travel on skis, splitboard or snowshoes in winter terrain

Upcoming Dates

• Dec 10–12, 2027

What to Bring

• Transceiver, probe and shovel (rentals may be available)
• Skis, splitboard or snowshoes and poles
• Warm winter layers, insulated jacket, toque and gloves
• Packed lunch, snacks and a thermos
• Notebook and pen

Why We Love It

Learn to make good decisions in avalanche terrain from local instructors, with a field day right here in the Kananaskis backcountry.