AST 1 – Avalanche Skills Training – 1.5 Day Course – Whistler
Our 1.5 day AST 1 course in Whistler is based on the Avalanche Canada curriculum and has been developed and refined by our lead instructors, who are experienced avalanche professionals, ACMG guides, and avalanche forecasters with North Shore Rescue.
The course is designed specifically for skiers and splitboarders who want to build the practical skills, knowledge, and decision-making tools needed to travel more safely in the backcountry.
Our Whistler AST 1 field days are normally held in the Whistler or Blackcomb backcountry in Garibaldi Provincial Park. The location is convenient for students coming from Whistler and Vancouver.
Online learning + live evening session + full Whistler field day.
Small groups. Professional instruction. Practical backcountry skills.
Course Format
Complete your AST 1 in three steps:
- Online Learning
Complete a 4–6 hour BC Ski Guides online avalanche course at your own pace during the week before your field day. - Live Online Session
Meet with your instructor online 7:00 to 9:00 PM the evening before your field day to review key concepts and prepare for the day ahead. - Whistler Field Day
Morning meeting followed by a full day in the backcountry. You will learn through hands-on training: avalanche rescue, terrain assessment, and decision-making. Whistler Blackcomb Epic pass required or Whistler Blackcomb backcountry lift ticket. (Approximately $45) .
Who’s It For?
- New backcountry skiers and splitboarders
- Skiers and riders comfortable on intermediate terrain in variable snow conditions
- Participants with sufficient fitness for approximately 2–3 hours of uphill travel during the day
- Ski tourers and splitboarders wanting to develop a strong foundation in avalanche safety and backcountry decision-making
What You’ll Learn
- Understand avalanche formation, avalanche problems, and avalanche danger
- Recognize avalanche terrain and make better terrain choices
- Read and apply Avalanche Canada forecasts and weather information
- Use the Avaluator and other backcountry decision-making tools
- Practice effective transceiver, probe, and shovel companion rescue
- Understand human factors and how they influence backcountry decisions
I have read and agree with the waiver and cancellation policy
Whistler – Scheduled Courses – 2026/27 Season Please contact us for dates at info@bcskiguides.com
| Whistler | From $250 | BOOK NOW (WAIVER CHECKBOX ABOVE REQUIRED) |
Whistler – Private Courses – 2026/27 Season
| Whistler Private | From $1000 | BOOK NOW (WAIVER CHECKBOX ABOVE REQUIRED) |
Private courses available on request. Contact us at info@bcskiguides.com for more information.
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Online Training
- Online course – complete anywhere at your own schedule prior to field day
- Online meeting with instructor and fellow students the evening prior to field day (ATTENDANCE IS MANDATORY)
Field Day
- 07:30AM Morning Meeting
- 8:30AM to 03:30PM Field Day: Whistler/Blackcomb Backcountry
You will need the following gear for your course, contact us if you need any recommendations:
- Alpine touring boots, skis or split-board, poles, skins
- Avalanche kit: transceiver (digital), probe, shovel
- Medium sized backpack (20 to 30l)
- Lunch, snacks, & water
- Helmet is recommended
- Ski googles
- Sun glasses
- Sun screen
- Headlamp
- Warm clothing and down jacket for lunch break
- Goretex Jacket & Pants
- Extra gloves and touque
- Smartphone with GPS mapping program installed (Gaia recommended)
- Basic first aid and blister kit
