Avalanche Skills Training AST 2 Course – Whistler Backcountry 4 Day Course

The AST 2 course is for backcountry skiers and snowboarders looking get into bigger and more complex mountain terrain. The course provides deep understanding of avalanche rescue, avalanche forecasting, terrain usage, and snow science. The focus is on developing the skills to evaluate terrain and select appropriate ski lines based on the current conditions.

The course is based out of Whistler.

Who’s it for?

  • Backcountry skiers and split-boarders
  • AST 1 Certification or equivalent experience
  • 1 Season of backcountry experience (15-20 Days)
  • Advanced Ski or Snowboarding Skills (Black Diamond Inbounds)
  • Moderate fitness for a full day in the mountains (800m+ elevation gain)

Course content:

  • AST 1 Review (4 hour online pre-course)
  • Companion rescue techniques
  • Snow science
  • Route planning
  • Weather observations and forecasts
  • Avalanche forecasting
  • Experience based decision making
  • Human factors and biases
  • Terrain usage

BC Ski Guides is a licensed provider of Avalanche Canada AST courses.


Important: You will be required to sign a paper waiver at the commencement of the activity.

I have read and agree with the waiver and cancellation policy

Whistler – Scheduled Courses – 2025/26 Season

December 5-8, 2025 From $879 CAD BOOK NOW (WAIVER CHECKBOX ABOVE REQUIRED)

Important: You will be required to sign a paper waiver at the commencement of the course.

Note: A minimum of 3 students is required to run the course.

Private courses available on demand. Please contact us at info@bcskiguides.com to book your course.

 

INCLUDED
CAA Avalanche Professional Instructor
AST 2 Course Materials
Online precourse (Do at your own pace prior to day 1)
Pre-Course Consultation
NOT INCLUDED
Backcountry Lift tickets ($45 per day)
Transportation
Accommodation
Ski Touring or Splitboarding Equipment
Avalanche Safety Gear (We have available for rental)
Snow study kit (magnification loupe, crystal screen, snow thermometer, ruler, saw) Note: Can be shared among students

Snow Study Kit Examples: https://backcountryaccess.com/en-ca/c/tools-accessories/snow-study-tools/

Online Training

  • 2-4 hour online training. Complete anywhere at your own schedule prior to Day 1 of course.

Field Day 1 – Whistler

  • 0800 Morning Meeting
  • 0830 to 1600 Course Content

Field Day 2 – Whistler

  • 0800 Morning Meeting
  • 0830 to 1600 Course Content

Field Day 3 – Whistler

  • 0800 Morning Meeting
  • 0830 to 1600 Course Content

Field Day 4 – Whistler

  • 0800 Morning Meeting
  • 0830 to 1600 Course Content

You will need the following gear for your course:

  • Alpine touring skis or split-board with skins
  • Avalanche kit: transceiver (digital), probe, shovel
  • Snow Study Kit: thermometer, crystal screen, loope, ruler
  • Medium sized backpack (30-40l)
  • Lunch, snacks, & water
  • Helmet is recommended
  • Synthetic base and midlayer clothing (no cotton)
  • Breathable Windproof Jacket
  • Goretex Shell Jacket & Pants
  • Warm Insulated Jacket
  • 2 Pairs of Gloves
  • Warm Touque and Facemask
  • Ski googles
  • Sun glasses
  • Headlamp with new batteries
  • Phone with Navigation App Installed (Gaia)
  • Compass
  • John Baldwin ski touring map for Whistler Backcountry
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