AST Level 1 Avalanche Course in Banff
Top three reasons to upgrade your skills in Banff
-
Banff National Park is one of Canada’s most prized natural jewels
-
Excellent snow conditions and breathtaking scenery
-
The perfect combination of classroom and hands-on experience
With its crown of snow-capped peaks towering majestically above a host of surreally colored glacial lakes, Canada’s first and most visited national park is a veritable feast for the eyes. But in addition to its tourist splendor, Banff is also a scene of pilgrimage for outdoor lovers who flock year-round to revel in the park’s wealth of first-class sporting opportunities. Come snowfall, the peaks and hills transform into a skier’s playground, and the area’s wintertime conditions become perfect for avalanche education. This AST Level 1 course in Banff National Park is designed to teach backcountry travelers how to obtain current information about avalanches, understand snowpack dynamics, and safely navigate the unpredictable terrain. With an expert guide by your side, this is the perfect learning environment. And if you’re lucky, you might even witness the winter night sky stunningly illuminated by the Northern Lights.
SeasonNovember through April |
Nearest cityCalgary is an hour and a half away |
Duration2 days |
Skill levelBeginner to intermediate |
Book this adventure
Learning outcomes
The course starts off with an online Zoom classroom section, during which you will cover topics such as:
-
- The root causes of avalanches
- Basic weather concepts and patterns contributing to avalanche hazards
- Group dynamics, risk tolerance and discovering your personal mountain intuition
- Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale ATES
- Snow crystal growth and metamorphism (snow science)
- Avalanche Canada daily Avalanche Bulletin
On the following day, you’ll get the chance to apply your newfound knowledge in the field. Head to Bow Summit or Vermillion Pass with your guides and get ready for an outing full of excitement. Learn all about:
-
- Basics of companion rescue and avalanche gear
- Rescue techniques
- Snowpack analysis
- Methods of managing groups and mitigating risk
- Reading the terrain
- Skiing and riding the park’s brilliant powder.
Classes are held over two days, either during the week (Tuesday-Wednesday) or over the weekend (Saturday-Sunday). Due to conditions, the field day location may change. Any changes will be discussed during the online class.