Understanding Avalanche Terrain

• Duration: 1.5 Day (1 field day with a 2 hour zoom session organised prior to the field day )

  • Zoom session: Focus on revisiting avalanche terrain assessment.

  • Field session: focus on applying terrain management strategies, navigating avalanche terrain in unideal conditions and practicing group travel.

• Location: Strathcona park backcountry (near to Mt Washington)

• Skill Level: Intermediate - AST 1 or equivalent experience is required.

• Group Size: Maximum 6 participants per instructor.

• Price: $200 per person

• Guide-to-Client Ratio: 1:6 for effective, personalized learning and safety.

The course is a practical, field-based course aimed at helping participants develop the knowledge of snowpack, mapping and safely navigating avalanche terrain.

This course is designed for those with prior avalanche skills knowledge, such as AST 1 or equivalent, who want to further their understanding of terrain evaluation and decision-making in complex conditions.

The focus is on learning how to identify safe routes, manage group travel effectively, and make informed decisions to reduce exposure to avalanche risk.

• Terrain Evaluation: Gain a deeper understanding of how to evaluate terrain and choose the safest possible route.

• Route Planning and Travel Techniques: Learn strategies for planning routes and traveling through avalanche terrain efficiently.

• Group Management: Practice group management techniques to reduce risk and ensure everyone’s safety while traveling in avalanche terrain.

• Decision-Making Tools: Learn advanced decision-making tools that help you assess risk and choose the best course of action in changing conditions.

Included

• ACMG certified instructor

• Course materials for terrain evaluation and decision-making

Not Included

• Required Safety 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 Tools: Crystal card, loupe, and thermometer (if available).

Physical Fitness:

A moderate level of fitness is required, as the course includes outdoor field days that may involve hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing in backcountry terrain.