AST 2
Deeper snowpack analysis and trip leadership.
- Length: 4 Days + 1 evening zoom session
- Where: Whistler Blackcomb
- Season: Dec–Apr
- Level: Intermediate
- Guide ratio: 1:6
- Price: $695 CAD per person
AST 2 is the natural progression from AST 1 for skiers and splitboarders building a solid foundation for winter backcountry travel. Over an evening lecture and four straight field days, the emphasis is on snow profile interpretation and recording, terrain rating, route selection, and advanced companion rescue.
By the end, you're not just following a trip plan — you can write one.
What you'll cover
An online evening lecture, then four consecutive field days (8:15am–5pm) in the backcountry beside Whistler Blackcomb. Backcountry lift tickets can be pre-arranged, and group discounts and custom Sea to Sky courses are welcome.
Day by day
- Eve — Online lecture 7:00–8:30pm on Zoom. Snowpack processes and the decision frameworks you'll apply all week.
- Day 1 — Field & theory 8:15am–5pm. Morning briefing routines, track setting, and field observations in real snow.
- Day 2 — Snowpack tests Digging, testing, recording, and interpreting snow profiles — turning observations into decisions.
- Day 3 — Terrain & travel Terrain rating, route selection, and group management in committing terrain.
- Day 4 — Leading the day Advanced rescue — including multi-burial — and a full day run under instructor mentorship.
What's included
- Avalanche instructor
- AST 2 certificate on completion
- Avaluator & online resources
- Transceiver, probe & shovel rentals available
- Backcountry lift ticket pre-arrangement
Is this for me?
AST 1 first, plus good fitness and the ability to ski black runs on piste. Bring your own touring setup, transceiver, probe, and shovel (rentals available).
What to bring
- Touring setup or splitboard (rental available)
- Transceiver, probe & shovel (rental available)
- Winter layers, gloves & goggles
- Lunch, water & thermos