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AST 1 Course dates available at Panorama for 2022/2023 season:
Please standby for course dates for this 2022/2023 season. Course dates will be coming soon!
Minimum course size is 3 students, maximum is 8.
Course format for AST 1:
The AST 1 course consists of approximately 8 hours of classroom instruction and an 8 hour field day. For the 2021/2022 season the AST 1 classroom day has moved to an online format. There is an online component that you will complete at your own leisure which should take around 6-7 hours. After this is completed there will be a 2 hour live zoom call on the evening before your field day (usually 7pm - 9pm) to review course content and plan for the next day. The field day is conducted entirely outdoors in the beautiful Purcell mountains at Panorama Ski resort.
Please email me at mike@northstarmountaineering.ca for more info and to register for your course.
Once you are registered and payment has processed you will gain access to the online course and digital textbook. You will receive a hard copy of the AST 1 textbook on the morning of the field day.
The cost for AST 1 is $249.00 + GST
This price includes textbook, online course, and the use of avalanche safety equipment during the course. (Transceiver, probe and shovel.)
More on AST courses:
We follow the Avalanche Canada's course outlines and a text book is included for your personal use. We can provide for you the Avalanche Skills Training (AST) Level 1 (two day), AST level 2 (four day), and Companion rescue training (one day refresher), or any combination of the above at your request.
These courses are essential training for anyone venturing into the mountains on a winter snowpack! Courses can be either taken in a group or custom crafted to meet your needs. Upon completion of this 16 hour course you will receive a certificate of attendance.
The instructor for the course, Michael Caswell is a member of the Canadian Association of Mountain Guides and Professional members of the Canadian Avalanche Association. We have worked in the avalanche industry in avalanche control , helicopter and cat skiing guiding. Our well rounded experience provides a wealth of knowledge to share with students.
What will I learn at an avalanche course?
Learn how to recognize avalanche terrain and be aware when you are at risk.
Learn about the factors that create unstable snow.
Learn how to plan for activities in the winter environment and where to get publicly available information on weather and the current avalanche conditions.
Learn how to observe conditions as you travel and recognize avalanche danger.
Learn how to travel in a way that reduces risk and maximizes your chances of surviving an avalanche.
Learn about the proper equipment to take and how to use it in an emergency.
Learn about controlling the human factors involved when fun activities take place in potentially dangerous environment.
No previous experience is necessary. Travel in avalanche terrain on skis, snowboard, snowshoes, or snowmobile is needed to access instructional locations.
Most avalanche courses are arranged on a custom basis or combined with another adventure to best suit the needs and experience of your group. Pease Contact us for custom bookings of an AST 1, AST 2, CRS or to create another custom Course!
Notes on booking an AST 1 course at Panorama B.C:
These courses are run at the beautiful ski area of Panorama Mountain Resort located just outside Invermere B.C. These courses are intended for those with intermediate ski or snowboard ability. The price of booking includes avalanche safety gear (Shovel, probe and tranciever), course materials and instruction from a certified IFMGA Mountain guide for the duration of the course. The price does not include the cost of equipment rentals or lift ticket for Panorama Resort. If you require a lift ticket for the day of the course we can arrange this for you at a deep discount (approx 70% off.) If you require rental equipment we recommend syndicate boardshop in Invermere.
Heli drop option is available for an additional charge and is subject to weather and availability. Please contact us for more information.
Invermere Local: 250-342-1086
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