Avalanche skills training (AST) - Level 1

AST 1 is the first step in Avalanche Canada’s Avalanche Skills Program. It will build fundamental skills for safe travel through the mountains.

AST 1 Plus adds an online learning module with two days spent in the field practicing and refining critical skills.

Enjoy a flexible hybrid format with online learning followed by one day in the field. Build practical avalanche awareness, rescue and backcountry travel skills with MSAA.

The leading avalanche skills provider in the Sea-to-Sky region also offers AST1 training in Squamish. Enjoy the same high-quality training without having to travel far!

As part of our Women’s Backcountry Series, AST1 will develop essential skills for safe travel in the mountains.

MSAA’s Teen AST guides have the specific skills and experience needed to work with youth aged 13 to 16, laying the groundwork for a lifetime of backcountry fun.

Is your backcountry skillset getting rusty? Join an AST1 field day to refresh your fundamental knowledge and skills.

There is no better place in the world to learn backcountry skiing than Whistler, so join us on this perfect 2-day entry level combo course (& save over 15%).

Our two-day AST 1 course provides avalanche skills training which includes avalanche phenomenon, trip planning, the principles of safe travel in the backcountry avalanche rescue and much more.

Complete Avalanche Skills Training 1 online, followed by one day in the field using snowshoes in North Vancouver.

AST 1 is the first step in Avalanche Canada’s Avalanche Skills Program. It will build fundamental skills for safe travel through the mountains.

Give the gift of choice with certificates available in any amount, applicable toward any of our courses or adventure experiences. A meaningful gift for anyone looking to learn, explore, and venture confidently into the backcountry.

This course combines two foundational programs. Intro to Backcountry Skiing and Snowboarding and Avalanche Skills Training 1 (AST 1), giving you the confidence to explore the backcountry safely.