AST1 for Sledders

As low as:

$350.00 / person

(at 8:1 ratio)
  • STRENUOUSNESS
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  • TECHNICAL DIFFICULTY
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Add-ons

Avi Kit Rental $25.00

Avalanche kit rental includes transceiver, shovel and probe. If you are bringing your own avi kit, this must include a modern, digital, 3-antenna transceiver, and a solid shovel and probe. If you do not have all three of these things then you must rent a kit from us to take part. Avi Kits once rented are non-refundable.

About


Looking to get out sledding in the backcountry this winter? Avalanche Skills Training 1 (AST1) is an introductory course geared towards recreationalists with little to no experience in avalanche terrain. It’s also suitable for those with some experience who are looking for more formalized training. AST1 is recommended for anyone venturing into avalanche terrain.

AST1 for Sledders is delivered in the backcountry surrounding Mount Washington, and features a customized curriculum delivered by a highly qualified, experienced sledder and avalanche forecaster. 

Curriculum

  • Understand the basics of avalanche formation and release
  • Recognize avalanche terrain
  • Develop a pre-trip plan
  • Use the Avaluator decision-making system
  • Interpret avalanche bulletins
  • Safe travel in avalanche terrain (uphill and down)
  • Complete slope scale assessments
  • Enact a companion rescue

Included

  • Online theory course (self-paced and pre-field day)
  • 1 day of instruction with a certified instructor
  • Certificate of completion
  • Avalanche Skills Training Handbook
  • Avaluator Trip Planner/Slope Assessment Tool
  • Avalanche Canada student fee
  • Certificate of completion 
  • IAG Lifetime Learning Guarantee

Not Included

  • Transportation
  • Food
  • Clothing
  • Personal equipment 
  • Avi Kit (transceiver, shovel, probe – available as an add-on)

Questions? Check out our FAQ page for details about our booking and cancellation policy, and other commonly asked questions.

Itinerary


Online Theory Platform: We’ve partnered with Altus Mountain Guides to bring you a comprehensive online AST 1 theory course you can complete at your own pace prior to your field day. You’ll work through a series of videos and presentations covering essential avalanche knowledge, followed by a final exam to confirm your understanding. The completion of this online course is a prerequisite for your AST 1 certificate. You’ll have access to revisit the course material for two months after receiving the login details/beginning the course.

A link to access the online theory portion of this course will be shared with everyone registered approx two weeks before the scheduled in-person days. Completing the theory portion of the course close to the field date helps keep the information and any questions fresh in your mind for discussion with your AST1 instructor.

Field Day: 

08:30: Students meet their instructor at a pull out 11km up the Mount Washington Rd. Waivers and rental add-ons are handed out.

09:00: After the morning meeting, students will spend the day in the field, identifying terrain, practicing route finding and safe travel, and learning about slope assessment, hazard recognition and small party self-rescue.
 
16:00pm-17:00pm: Debrief and rental return.

*Timing depends on the conditions, group dynamics, and how quickly the instructor can move through the necessary material. 

Questions? Check out our FAQ page, or send us an email

Requirements


Avalanche Skills Training 1 is an introductory avalanche course designed for individuals with little to no avalanche related experience. However, to register for our course for sledders, we ask that you: 

  • Have a basic understanding of your sled, gear, and any limitations (consider practicing with your transceiver beforehand)
  • Are prepared to spend the day outside in variable conditions (please see gear list)
  • Have access to a vehicle which can transport you and your sled safely on winter roads (chains, winter tires, etc.)

If you do not feel you meet these requirements, you may consider registering for our "AST1: Snowshoe" course. 

Pre-course study 

To help you prepare and get the most out of your course, we recommend some pre-course study. Avalanche Canada’s online avalanche tutorial is a great resource.

Questions? Check out our FAQ page, or send us an email.

Gear List


The equipment list provided aims to prepare you to be comfortable in the field regardless of the weather. Please ensure that all your gear is functioning and in proper repair. If you have any questions, please send us an email: [email protected]

Avalanche Safety Gear

These items are available as an add on “avalanche kit” when you book, or by request for $15

  • Avalanche Transceiver (must be a modern, digital three-antenna)
  • Shovel: Collapsible aluminum shovel
  • Probe: Normal length probe somewhere from 220cm to 320cm

Hardware

  • Snowmobile
  • Snowshoes 
  • Collapsible poles 
  • Day pack (30 - 40L, or whatever will fit your gear)

Clothing

  • Waterproof/breathable jacket and pants
  • Lightweight, breathable jacket and pants (for uphill skinning/climbing)
  • Insulated jacket (synthetic insulated jacket is strongly recommended)
  • Lightweight gloves for climbing/skinning 
  • Warm gloves
  • Warm hat
  • Balaclava or another type of neck warmer
  • Baselayers (top and bottom)

Other

  • Water
  • Lunch and snacks (prepared ahead of time and consumable on the go) 
  • Sunglasses
  • Goggles
  • Sunscreen
  • Sun hat
  • Ski strap
  • Personal first aid (e.g. blister kit, medication)
  • Camera
  • Notebook and pencil (Rite in the Rain recommended)

Rentals


Avalanche Kit: We offer rental transceivers, shovels and probes as an add-on kit when you book or by request pre-trip. If you do not have your own modern, digital, three antenna transceiver, collapsible shovel, and/or probe - please request a rental kit prior to your course/trip.

Questions? Check out our FAQ page for information about gear fitting, rentals, add ons, and other commonly asked questions, or send us an email. 

Testimonials

There are currently no testimonials for this trip yet.