Avalanche Skills Training Level 1
LIVE4THERUSH AST 1
Snowmobile
Course Overview
AST 1 is a course designed for those just starting out or returning backcountry users interested in learning how to recognize avalanche hazards - risks - terrain, trip planning, perform companion rescue, and understand the avalanche forecast.
Curriculum Highlights
Avalanche Formation & Release: Understanding how and why avalanches occur.
Terrain Recognition: Identifying avalanche-prone areas and terrain traps.
Trip Planning: Basics of route planning and using avalanche bulletins.
Risk Management: Introduction to decision-making frameworks and human factors affecting safety.
Companion Rescue: Hands-on training with transceivers, probes, and shovels for emergency response.
Course Format
Duration: 2-3 days (1 full 8 hour day or 2 evening classroom sessions + 1 field day).
Location: Whitehorse, YT (Classroom), Exact field location will be relayed after booking your course.
Cost: AST 1 Sled $450 (+GST)
Certification: Participants will receive an Avalanche Canada AST 1 certificate upon completion.
Course Gear/Field Requirements
What to bring (Field): Mechanically sound snowmobile or snow bike, Sled or winter boots, Backpack, Transciever (3 Antenna), Probe (300 cm recommended), Metal Shovel, DOT certified Sled Helmet, Googles (if appliable for helmet), Min 2 sets of Gloves, Toque, Balaclava, Baselayers + Warm Jacket (extra layers/coat, repair kit / first aid kit appliable to your equipment and personal needs, Lunch/Snacks, Water/Thermos.
No prior avalanche training is required, making this the ideal introductory course for anyone interested in or planning to recreate in the backcountry during the winter season. Participants must, however, have basic snowmobile operating skills, including the ability to start and safely operate their machine, use a tether cord to shut down the sled if separated from it, ensure the sled’s kill switch is functional, and demonstrate confidence riding both on- and off-trail in simple terrain.
Review: Shred AST Waiver
2026 AST 1 Course Dates Coming Out Soon, STAY TUNED!
Avalanche Skills Training Level 1 Refresher
LIVE4THERUSH AST 1 Refresh
Snowmobile
Course Overview
Ideal course refersher for those who haven’t practiced their AST skills in a while or want to build confidence before heading into avalanche terrain again.
Who Should/Can Take It?
Anyone who has previously completed an AST 1 or AST 1+ course.
Curriculum Highlights
Reinforce Core Skills: Review key concepts from AST 1, including terrain recognition, avalanche hazard assessment, and safe travel techniques.
Update Knowledge: Learn about any changes in avalanche safety best practices, tools, or forecasting methods since your initial training.
Practice in the Field: Hands-on experience with companion rescue techniques and decision-making in real backcountry terrain.
Course Format
Duration: 1 full day in the field.
Focus: Practical application of classroom theory.
Location: Conducted in accessible backcountry areas, often near avalanche terrain, but chosen for safety and learning opportunities.
Cost: AST 1 Sled Refresh $325 (+GST)
Pre-Course Preparation
Participants are often encouraged to:
Review Avy Savvy materials, especially chapters on the Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale, Avalanche Forecasts, and Daily Process.
Refresh knowledge of trip planning tools like the Avaluator and online AvCan bulletins.
Field Gear List/Requirements
Same list as Live4theRush AST 1 course (Snowmobile).
Review: Shred AST Waiver
2026 AST Refresh Dates Coming Out Soon, STAY TUNED!
For Private Group Rates or Specialized AST Course Requests, Fill Out the Contact Form Below!
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