Avalanche Skills Training (AST) Level 1
Testimonials from our AST Alumni
"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..."
"Incredible AST I course! Hayden's delivery was fun, informative, and professional. There was just the right mix of information and experiential learning, tossed with a smattering of bad dad jokes and epic snow. This was a fantastic introduction course on avalanche safety. I began analyzing terrain and got used to properly using my avalanche tools and equipment. I came out feeling like I can be a part of decision-making in the backcountry, rather than follow along blindly. THANK YOU!"
"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."
"I redid my AST-1 with Judson and KBG and am so glad I did! The knowledge that the guides have and how they present the material made for an extremely educational and fun weekend! It was such a pleasure to learn from guides with so much experience and such willingness to share. I would most certainly recommend working with KBG in any capacity. Their professionalism, knowledge, attention to detail, and passion make them exceptional guides, and the backcountry experts you want to learn from!"
Course Overview:
Do you venture out of bounds, off the trails, or into the backcountry? An AST 1 is your place to start. You don't need any experience to take this course, but it is a must for everyone recreating in the backcountry. Whether you are taking your first steps into the backcountry or looking to increase your knowledge base, the Avalanche Skills Training Level 1 program is for you. Our professional guides will teach you how to plan and carry out a fun backcountry trip, read and use the avalanche bulletin, utilize the vast array of online resources at your disposal, and carry out a proficient rescue in the event of an accident.
Our AST-1 course is designed to get you the skills you need to get up to speed quickly so you can maximize your fun while reducing your risk in the backcountry.
What you will learn:
- Avalanche formation and release.
- How to identify avalanche terrain.
- The basics of trip planning.
- How to use the avalanche forecast to mitigate your avalanche risk.
- Using appropriate travel techniques in avalanche terrain.
- Intro to companion rescue.
The KBG Method: Blended Learning for Maximum Fun and Field Time.
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Pre-Learning
We've adopted a blended learning approach to give you the most time in the mountains to maximize the fun and learning factor. You'll complete the theory portion online at your own pace before your course begins—allowing us to spend 100% of our classroom time out in the field, focusing on hands-on, practical skills.
There are no mandatory Zoom meetings, so you can fit the learning into your schedule. The online portion takes about 6 hours and must be completed before your first field day. This format gives you the flexibility to learn when it works for you, while ensuring you're fully prepared to make the most of your time in the mountains.
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Day 1
Location: Whitewater Ski Resort
You’ll spend the day building a solid foundation in backcountry travel: getting familiar with your safety equipment, learning essential companion rescue techniques, and heading out on a short tour to apply what you've learned. The focus is on developing the knowledge and skills needed to plan and execute a basic backcountry ski day while managing risk and making informed decisions. -
Day 2
Location: Kootenay Pass
We expand on your learning from day-one and carry out a full field day in the Kootenay Pass Backcountry. You will put everything we learned on day-one into practice.*Occasionally, weather and road closures do not allow us access to Kootenay Pass.
Fitness & Skill Requirements:
Dates & Costs:
Courses may be held at either Kootenay Pass or Whitewater Ski Resort Backcountry. In rare instances we may need utilize the lifts at Whitewater to gain access to the backcountry.
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Course Cost:
what's included$347 +tax
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Two full 8-hour days of field-based instruction with our fun and professional guides.
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The Avaluator™ tool, used to trip-plan and make on-mountain decisions.
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The new Avalanche Handbook by James Floyer and Keith Robine.
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Our 5 Rules to Stay Safe in Avalanche Terrain and gear checklist card.
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Self-paced online primer.
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Private Course:
max 8 ppl.$2,500 +tax
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Booking & Cancelation Policy:
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A.S.T. Course Waiver:
please read - do not print/sign -
25-26 Dates:
- November 29-30, 2025
- December 6-7, 2025
- December 13-14, 2025
- December 20-21, 2025
- January 3-4, 2026
- January 10-11, 2026
- January 24-25, 2026 **Women Specific**
- January 31- February 1, 2026
- February 7-8, 2026
- February 14-15. **Women Specific**
Join our waitlist!
Last-minute cancelations happen all the time. If the dates you were hoping to join are sold out fill out the waitlist and be notified when spots become available.