5 Reasons You Should Take the Lodge-Based AST 2 with Kootenay Backcountry Guides
If you're serious about backcountry skiing or snowboarding, mastering avalanche safety is non-negotiable. The Lodge-Based AST 2 course isn't just another class—it's an immersive experience that will boost your confidence, sharpen your decision-making, and set you up for success in the mountains. Plus, with accommodation and training bundled together, it's a cost-effective way to level up your skills in a single, all-inclusive adventure. Here are 5 reasons why this course is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their backcountry skills and take on more advanced terrain.
1. An Immersive Learning Experience in a Backcountry Setting
The Lodge-Based AST 2 offers a unique opportunity to elevate your avalanche safety skills in an immersive, hands-on environment. Unlike day courses where you travel every day and in and out of the field, this experience allows for multiple days of uninterrupted learning. You'll have the chance to practice advanced snowpack evaluation, route finding, and avalanche rescue in the heart of the backcountry, surrounded by terrain suited for learning and fun. This immersive format ensures you walk away with a deep, practical understanding of how to travel through avalanche terrain safely.
2. Unmatched Lodge Experience
This course provides the perfect combination of education and relaxation. After long, rewarding days in the backcountry, you'll return to a cozy, remote lodge where you can debrief, relax, and recharge. Hot and cold running water, showers, a fully equipped kitchen and even a hot tub add to the setting. The lodge-based setting also allows for more in-depth discussions with your guides and fellow participants in a comfortable environment, making it easier to absorb the material and reflect on what you've learned. Plus, being based in the backcountry means you're right in the heart of the action—no long drives to trailheads. just a short step from the lodge to pristine touring terrain. The lodge is situated a short hike from Highway 31A a half-hour from Kaslo B.C.
3. Best Value for a Lodge-Based Training Course
At $1399, the Lodge-Based AST 2 offers incredible value. Not only do you receive high-level backcountry training, but you also get the full lodge experience, making it an unbeatable deal. For those travelling to the Kootenays, this package can be more cost-effective than staying in Nelson and taking a standard AST 2 course, as it covers both accommodation and your training. This all-inclusive price ensures that you're getting the most out of your experience without worrying about additional costs like lodging and daily driving, making it both convenient and affordable.
4. Top-Notch Guides and Instructors Elevate Your Learning
Kootenay Backcountry Guides is known for its highly qualified ACMG (Association of Canadian Mountain Guides) and Avalanche Professionals who bring extensive experience and knowledge to the table. You will receive personalized attention and feedback, helping you build confidence and refine your mountain travel and safety decision-making skills in real-time. There is no other course where you get this much time with an ACMG guide, making the experience much more impactful and focused on your individual learning needs.
5. Access Terrain Suited for Learning
Located in the Goat Range near Mountain Brennan, (2900m) means that you have access to Treeline and Alpine terrain right out your back door. The area boasts numerous peaks in the 2700m range and there is no shortage of avalanche terrain to assess and fine-tune your route-finding and tracksetting skills.
Join us on a trip of a life time and take your learning to the next level.
Kootenay Backcountry Guides offers the amazing opportunity to take the AST-2 (second level of avalanche training) in a private lodge in the mountains. The experience was a perfect balance of learning & fun (as was the guiding!) Everybody had the opportunity to ask questions & to be asked questions.They provided an environnement that respected everyone's abilities and fitness, ensuring a great team spirit and cohesion.
From Camille
AST - Level 2 Lodge Based - Kootenay Backcountry Guides
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