CAA AST Level 2

CAA AST 2 (Advanced Recreational Avalanche Class)

The AST 2 course will test your skills to gather quality data, improve your interpretation skills and highlight opportunities to make better choices regarding route selection and group management in avy terrain. Rescue skills will be honed through multiple scenarios and a stronger emphasis on teamwork and the fundamental search techniques than in the AST1. Prepare to be challenged!

30 hour minimum
8 students minimum
12 students maximum

Follow this link for the AST2 course outline set by the Canadian Avalanche Centre.

AST2 Theory & Field Sessions

February 10-12, 2012 – Golden, BC
February 23-26, 2012 – Revelstoke, BC


Custom courses are available upon request.
Call for a custom quote. 403-850-3042

Recommended field equipment (this can be pre-ordered from Zac’s Tracs, purchased online or at a mountain shop)

  • Compass with an inclinometer feature ~$50
  • Snow Saw or folding bush saw – $20-40
  • First Aid Kit
  • Loaded SNOWSTUDY KIT ~ $130 (or buy individual items below)
  • Snow screen ~ $12-$20
  • Loupe (magnifier) ~$10-15
  • Folding Ruler – 2 m ~$20
  • field book (write in the rain paper) ~$15-$25
  • pencils


Recommended Preparation
I have included a few questions to help you determine the best investment: a refresher of an AST1 or to move up to the AST2.
  • Did your previous avalanche training include a hands-on component? AST1 or RAC ?
  • How long ago? The research, curriculum and avalanche equipment is constantly changing. Is your introductory training up to date?
  • How much have you ‘used’ your avy training since?
    What I mean is have you ever dug a pit outside of the course?
    Do you make conscious decisions related to route finding?
    Do you use the CAC Avalanche Bulletin and do you understand the majority of it?
  • Have you ever heard of the AVALUATOR? This is a new decision making tool that is endorsed by the CAC for recreational backcountry use. You must have working knowledge of the PAB scale and the ATES scale (Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale).

    Participants MUST feel confident about all the material in the ‘Sledding in Avalanche Terrain’ AST1 course manual.

    It is HEAVILY RECOMMENDED to pre-read ‘Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain’ by Bruce Tremper.
    Personal experience digging snowpits (other than in your AST1 course) will allow you to take your introductory skills to a new level.

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