Please note, you must complete the waiver acknowledgement before making a booking.
The mountains are calling—but before you head into winter backcountry terrain, make sure you have the skills to recognize and manage avalanche hazards. Our Avalanche Skills Training Level 1 (AST 1) course provides the essential foundation for travelling safely in avalanche terrain.
Developed by Avalanche Canada, the AST 1 introduces you to the fundamentals of avalanche awareness, terrain selection, snowpack assessment, trip planning, and companion rescue. You’ll learn from experienced instructors in the mountains around Fernie, combining classroom learning with hands-on field practice in real winter conditions.
The 2-day course includes:
- 8 hours of interactive classroom learning
- 8+ hours of hands-on field instruction in backcountry terrain around Fernie
Throughout the course, you’ll learn how to interpret daily avalanche forecasts, recognize avalanche terrain and hazard, understand the factors that influence snowpack stability, and make informed decisions about where and how to travel.
You’ll also practice using avalanche rescue equipment and performing a basic companion rescue, giving you the essential skills to practice after the course so you are prepared to act if an avalanche occurs.
By the end of the course, you’ll have a foundational decision-making framework for winter backcountry travel and the practical skills needed to begin exploring avalanche terrain more responsibly.
AST 1 is the essential first step for anyone looking to develop their avalanche knowledge and become a more capable and informed backcountry traveller.
The AST 1 in Fernie runs over two consecutive days. To view available course dates, select your preferred start date from the drop-down menu and click “Book Now.”
