AVALANCHE SKILLS REFRESHER

If it’s been a while since you took AST1, or you’re just looking for a chance to sharpen some key skills before your next adventure, an Avalanche Skills Refresher is your opportunity to join an AST1 class’ field day.

Start the day with pre-trip planning, and spend the rest practicing all the techniques you need to be a great teammate in the backcountry: route finding, terrain assessment, snow stability observations and companion rescue.

As a student with some AST experience, you will have the chance to demonstrate skills and to step into a leadership role during scenarios and practice.

If you have taken AST1 or an Avalanche Skills Refresher and want to continue your backcountry education, a Foundation Clinic or AST2 is the next step. Call our office to discuss the best options!

Important Information:

• AST1 is a prerequisite
• Touring skis/splitboard required. Rentals available.
• Lift ticket required (discounted lift ticket available through our office)
• Geared for intermediate, advanced and expert skiers or snowboarders
• Participants must be comfortable and confident in intermediate terrain [blue runs] in a variety of snow conditions. If you are unsure of your ability, please contact us for more information.
• Geared for those who want to explore the backcountry further

Lift Ticket: If you do NOT currently possess a valid Whistler Blackcomb lift ticket (Seasons Pass, Spirit Pass, Edge Card, Epic Pass, etc.), you may buy a Lift Ticket through our office at checkout.

Field Day - 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

The guide will conduct a brief discussion about current conditions and weather, and then ensure that everyone has their gear checked. After that, you will begin your ascent up the mountain. The day will conclude around 4:30 pm with a brief review and a discussion of the next steps you can take after completing this course.

MSAA Loyalty Program: After completing the AST-1 Course, all students will be enrolled in the MSAA loyalty program. As part of this program, students will receive a 10% discount on any future course with MSAA. We highly recommend that all students who have completed the AST-1 Course consider taking the AST-2 course within the next 1-2 seasons. For more information contact our office.

Rentals/Purchase:

If you require rentals, we have teamed up with local companies to provide discounted rates. Visit our rental page HERE for more information!

Clothing:

• Weatherproof shell jacket and pants
• Down or synthetic insulated jacket
• Mid-layer fleece top
• Insulating top and bottom under layers and socks
• Warm hat/toque and balaclava
• Two pairs of gloves
• Sunglasses and sunscreen

Equipment:

• Lift Pass (If you do not have a season pass or Epic Pass or Edge Card, you can purchase a backcountry ticket from MSAA at checkout)
• Backpack-25-35 Litres
• Alpine touring skis or splitboard, skins, bindings, and boots
• Avalanche Safety Kit (transceiver, shovel, probe)
• Helmet
• Poles
• First Aid Kit with blister kit
• Rite in the Rain notebook and pencil (optional)
• Map, compass, GPS (optional)
• Lunch, snacks, and water

Topics Covered:

• Trip planning
• Trailhead procedures
• Companion rescue
• Situational awareness
• Terrain selection and travel techniques
• Snowpack and/or avalanche observations
• Snowpack tests
• Avalanche terrain descent