This course is for BCMC members who are snowshoers or mountaineers wanting to learn to avoid avalanches, travel safely in the backcountry, and build their arsenal of mountain knowledge. There are no prerequisites for this course.

Base course fee: $223.20 (special price for BCMC members; regular price $279)

Location: Vancouver/North Shore Mountains.Course may be moved to Squamish or Whistler if snow conditions are not suitable on the North Shore mountains

Course Description: This Avalanche Skills Training (AST) course is taught by a certified Canadian Avalanche Association (CAA) professional. You will obtain your AST-1 certification upon successful completion of this course. Further information about the curriculum and other details can be found here.

Notes: Cost does not include transportation to/from course areas, lift access fees (if applicable), food, or personal equipment as noted. You must supply your own snowshoes, as well as your own avalanche kit (transceiver, probe, shovel). If you don't have your own equipment, you can rent from MEC Vancouver or other local mountain shops. Be aware, rentals often sell out so book early! This course is for BCMC members only. 

Online Registration Process: (READ CAREFULLY!)

(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 MSAA at this link: https://www.mountainskillsacademy.com/courses/avalanche-skills-training-level-1-snowshoe-vancouver/ using the promo code shown on the left side of the page under "Course Online Payment". This promo code will be visible only once you're on the Waiting List. Be sure to select the February 23/24 dates

(3) You will receive a confirmation email from MSAA once payment is completed. Forward your confirmation email to courses@bcmc.ca. You will then be added to the Confirmed List.

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

Trip Organizer and Volunteer Incentive Program:

If you've volunteered your time as either:

(1) 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

(2) a 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/courses you have been the primary organizer for.