The AST-2 Course is delivered over two weekends, January 6/7 and 13/14. This course is a special offering exclusive to BCMC Members by Canada West Mountaineering School, the leading mountaineering school on the West Coast. For more information about the course, see info here: https://themountainschool.com/program/avalanche-skills-2-weekend/

AST-2 is recommended for skiers and boarders wanting to progress to an increased competency in evaluation of terrain, snow pack, weather and the decision making progress during group travel in a winter environment.

The AST-2 course is conducted using a variety of different terrain locations. Students may be required to purchase a Whistler Blackcomb backcountry day pass for at least one of the course days. Students will have exposure to a variety of snow packs, terrain and weather patterns, to enhance the learning opportunities involved in winter decision-making.

The AST-2 course includes: 

• 40 hours of instruction by a CAA Level 2 Professional member
• CAA approved curriculum for AST-2 course
• Avalanche manual
• Practice using of beacon, shovel and probe (bring your own gear)
• CAA Industry-recognized Certificate of completion

Requirements:

• AST-1 or equivalent
• Intermediate backcountry skiing experience

Cost:

• Course cost $495 (Special BCMC Members price, plus GST). Non-Member rate: $595 + GST)
• Cost does not include transportation to/from course areas; lift access or hut fees (if applicable); food; or personal equipment except as noted.

On-line Registration process:

1) Click “Join this trip” on the left hand side of the page. You will be added to the Waiting List

(2)  Complete your payment directly with CWMS at the link shown on the left side of the page under "Course Online Payment". You will receive a confirmation email from CWMS once your payment is completed.

(3)  Forward your confirmation email to courses@bcmc.ca. You will then be added to the Confirmed List

(4)  Keep an eye on your email for further information 

Trip Organizer & Volunteer Instructor Incentive Program:

If you’ve volunteered your time as either:
(a) a Trip Organizer with 4 or more outdoor trips in the past 12 months, you may apply for a 25% rebate off the course fee, or
b) Course Instructor (primary volunteer organizer) in the past 12 months, you may apply for a 50% refund off the course fee.
Please email courses@bcmc.ca with your request, along with a list of recent trips and/or course(s) you have been the primary organizer for. 

If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact courses@bcmc.ca