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AST 1+ Course

Participants will learn the basic skills of avalanche phenomena, assessment and avoidance in addition to the ski touring skills to access the backcountry.  This course covers the two pillars of safe and efficient backcountry travel:

Avalanche Skills Training 

  • Understand the basics of avalanche formation and release 

  • Identify avalanche terrain 

  • Pre trip planning 

  • Use of the Avaluator decision-making system 

  • Using public avalanche bulletins 

  • Travel in avalanche terrain (uphill and down) 

  • Companion rescue 

Ski Touring Training  

  • Utilize your backcountry equipment properly 

  • Read a map, compass 

  • Assess terrain for easiest and safest route of ascent 

  • Identify mountain and snowpack areas of concern 

  • Efficient up tracking through simple and challenging terrain 

  • Group management ascending and descending Navigation