Avalanche Skills Training 2
Take your backcountry skills to the next level with VIBE’s Avalanche Skills Training Level 2 (AST 2) course. Designed for skiers, snowboarders, and snowshoers who already have basic avalanche knowledge, AST 2 provides an in-depth understanding of avalanche terrain, snowpack evaluation, and advanced rescue techniques. Over four days of classroom and field training, you’ll learn to assess complex snow conditions, navigate challenging terrain, and make informed decisions to stay safe in high-risk environments. Taught by experienced ACMG certified guides, this course will give you the skills and confidence needed for more advanced backcountry adventures. Elevate your knowledge and explore with confidence—join our AST 2 course today!
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The AST 2 course is designed for experienced backcountry enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of avalanche terrain, snowpack analysis, and advanced decision-making. This course builds on the concepts from AST 1 and dives deeper into evaluating complex terrain, managing group dynamics, and assessing weather and snowpack stability. Ideal for those who want to take their backcountry skills to the next level, AST 2 provides the training required for safe travel in more demanding avalanche terrain.
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Advanced Terrain Analysis: Learn to identify and navigate more complex avalanche terrain.
Snowpack Assessment Techniques: Perform snow profiles and stability tests to understand snowpack conditions in detail.
Travel Techniques: Apply advanced group management and travel techniques for navigating avalanche-prone terrain safely.
Advanced Rescue Skills: Develop a more comprehensive understanding of avalanche rescue, including multiple burial scenarios and rescue planning.
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Duration: 4 Days
Day 1-2: Classroom sessions covering advanced snow science, weather, and terrain evaluation techniques.
Day 3-4: Field days to practice snowpack assessment, advanced travel techniques, and group management.
Location:
Classroom: Nanaimo
Field Days: Mount Washington backcountry area or another suitable location with varied terrain.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced - AST 1 certification is required, as well as prior backcountry experience.
Group Size: Maximum 6 participants per instructor for personalized feedback and support.
Price: $600 per person
Guide-to-Client Ratio: 1:6 to ensure effective hands-on learning and safety in complex terrain.
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Included
ACMG certified instructor
Avalanche transceiver, probe, and shovel (available upon request)
AST 2 course workbook and learning materials
Not Included
Required Gear: Avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe (can be provided if needed).
Backcountry Gear: Touring skis or splitboard, boots, skins, poles.
Clothing: Warm layers, waterproof outerwear, gloves, toque, and face covering.
Personal Items: Daypack, water, lunch/snacks, sunglasses or goggles, sunscreen.
Navigation Tools: Map, compass, and GPS (if available).
Snow Study Kit: Crystal card, loupe, and thermometer (if available).
Closing Summary
If you're ready to take on more challenging terrain, AST 2 is your next step. Learn advanced techniques, explore complex terrain, and build the confidence needed for demanding backcountry adventures. Book your spot today and elevate your avalanche safety knowledge!
