Avalanche Skills Training

Safety first, but the fun is number one!

"Pursued the AST-1 course with KBG based on recommendations from a few friends and they exceeded my expectations. The online training course was excellent preparation before two full days in the field. It allows you to learn the basics of avalanche safety at your own pace while using real-world examples of situations you may encounter in the field..."

"We completed the Managing Avalanche Terrain course with Judson Wright today, and it was phenomenal. Judson is highly experienced and spared no detail when sharing his knowledge with us. Doing the online learning instead of a class room was ideal. We had a huge day out in the field and although pit digging and companion rescue wasn't on the curriculum, we did it anyway. Thanks Judson!!"

"I recently took the AST-1 course with KBG. It was a very professional and informative course with lots of time in the field and a well designed online primer. Would highly recommend this outfit for anybody thinking of getting their AST-1."

Don't just take our word for it, check out what all these awesome past/repeat participants had to say

AST Course Waiver

All participants are required to review and agree to the Avalanche Skills Training Program waiver in order to participate in the tour or course. The waiver is a legal agreement in which you will waive legal rights – PLEASE ENSURE YOU REVIEW THE WAIVER. If the waiver is not completed, participation will not be allowed. Your guide will provide a paper copy of the waiver on the morning of your tour or course, and you will sign it in front of them so they can witness.

Avalanche Skills Training Courses:

AST - Level 1

Avalanche Skills Training Level 1

This course is for everyone who is getting into ski touring and splitboarding and needs to learn the basics. You will get a series of online course materials, and TWO full field days in the Whitewater/Kootenay Pass backcountry.

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AST - Level 1 Refresher

1 Day Review

Welcome back to the world of avalanche safety! If you’ve completed your AST 1 course and are eager to bolster your skills, our AST 1 Refresher Course is tailored just for you.

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Managing Avalanche Terrain

AST - MAT

The Managing Avalanche Terrain (MAT is a field-based course designed to expand on the terrain management taught in the AST-1 and to develop advanced winter backcountry travel skills. Get to know your backyard!

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AST - Level 2

Avalanche Skills Training Level 2

Are you ready to take backcountry adventure to the next level? On this four-day course, our expert guides will give you all the tips and tricks you need for a lifetime of safety and exploration in the backcountry.

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Lodge Based AST 2

This A.S.T. 2 course is for those seeking an incredible lodge-based backcountry learning adventure. All the amenities of standard living plus extras: private rooms for two, hot and cold running water, and electricity.

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Before You Register...

View Waivers

Please ensure you have read and understood the waiver.

Your guide will go over the waivers on the morning of your tour or course, and you will sign in front of them so they can witness. If you are under the age of 19 you will need to have your parent or legal guardian sign for you.

VIEW WAIVER HERE

Booking & Cancelation Policy

PLEASE ENSURE YOU HAVE READ AND UNDERSTOOD THE BOOKING & CANCELATION POLICY

Each guest must familiarize themselves with the terms and conditions and the information on our website. By submitting, deposit, or payment, you agree to be bound by the terms and conditions below:

Fitness Levels & Ski/Split Skills

Please ensure you have reviewed our fitness and ski skill descriptions

Having an appropriate fitness level for the trip or course you are joining is a critical component of mountain safety. Please rate yourself honestly and accurately.

Vista Lodge

March 25th - April 1st, 2023

Sunrise Lodge

March 2-9th, 2024 + March 8-15th, 2025

Wapta Traverse

Spring 2023

Basecamp Adventure

Custom Trip

Private Guided Tours

Local, Nelson BC