This course will provide an entry-level decision-making framework that is based on the most advanced knowledge available. It is suitable for use by people with basic training and little experience. At the end of the course, students should be able to:

Using safety measures to cross a steep slope

• Understand the basics of avalanche formation and release.
• Identify avalanche terrain.
• Know the steps required to plan and carry out a trip.
• Use the Avaluator™ as a decision-making tool in areas where trips are rated using the Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale (ATES) and where Avalanche Danger Ratings and Avalanche Bulletins are available.
• Find resources for obtaining ATES terrain ratings if their trip is not rated.
• Find resources for obtaining Avalanche Danger Ratings and Avalanche Bulletins if these are not available.
• Use appropriate travel techniques in avalanche terrain.
• Carry out a companion rescue.
• Understand the limits of their training.

Prerequisites: Intermediate skiing/snowboarding ability. If you can get down a blue run at the ski hill you are ready to take this course!

Dates and price: These courses are available on a customized basis for your group. Email me for details.

If you are a young adult living in the Bow Valley you may be eligible for one of the AST courses we teach for BanffLife, for more info email Christine at BanffLife.

BanffLife AST 1 dates: Dec 13-14, Jan 26-27, Feb 14-15, Mar 14-25.

BanffLife AST price: $130. To book email Christine at BanffLife.

The Avalanche Skills Training Level 2 Course will provide an intermediate level decision-making framework that is based on the most advanced knowledge available. It is suitable for use by people with a moderate degree of training and experience. At the end of the course, students should be able to:

• 

  A skier triggered avalanche

  Use the Avaluator™ as a filtering tool to determine when additional planning and travel techniques are required to travel safely.

• Be familiar with Avalanche Danger Ratings verification techniques for personal use on a local scale.
• Be familiar with the ATES technical model as a means to develop personal, local terrain ratings.
• Use routefinding to take advantage of nuances in terrain to manage personal risk.
• Use travel techniques in avalanche terrain appropriate to the avalanche conditions.
• Proficiently carry out a companion rescue.
• Understand the limits of their training.

Prerequisites: Intermediate skiing/snowboarding ability. If you are confident on a blue run at the ski hill you are ready to take this course!

Dates and price: These courses are available on a customized basis for your group. Email me for details.

Ice climbing!

The Canadian Rockies have some of the best ice climbing in the world. Learn the basics of the sport, and get introduced to a whole new world of winter adventure!  In a small group you will learn from some of the best climbers/ACMG guides in the Valley.  No experience necessary. Cost includes: 1 day of instruction, use of group technical equipment, use of personal climbing equipment (helmet, harness and belay devise) and transportation to climbing site.

2011-2012 Dates: Dec 16, Jan 13, Feb 10, Mar 10.

Price: $55. To book email Christine at BanffLife.

Erica showing how it's done

Spend one day a week learning the basics techniques for ice climbing, and perfecting it! The Canadian Rocky Mountains are home to some of the best spots for ice climbing. Don’t miss out on learning this exciting sport you can enjoy all winter!  In a small group, you will learn from some of the best climbers/ACMG guides in the Valley.  No experience necessary. Cost includes: four days of instruction, use of group technical equipment, use of personal climbing equipment and transportation to climbing site.

2011-2012 Dates: First cycle – Jan 5, 11, 18, 25; Second cycle – March 9, 16, 23, 30

Price: $250. To book email Christine at BanffLife.

Powder turns!

Have you always wanted to ski away from the resorts? Join this one day course to learn the basics of backcountry skiing. Everything from using skins, how to travel with touring gear and basic avalanche safety will be addressed.  In a small group, you will learn from some of the best skiers / ACMG guides in the Valley.  This is a great day to use as a primer for any longer trips. Intermediate skiing ability is necessary. Cost includes: 1 day of instruction, use of snow safety equipment (shovel and probe), and transportation to skiing site.  Ski gear and transceiver not included cost.

Dates: Dec 15, Feb 16, Mar 16

Price: $65. To book email Christine at BanffLife.

Backcountry touring

Deep powder skiing, stunning views of icefields and frozen waterfalls, a night sleeping in a cozy mountain hut -what more could you ask for on an overnight ski adventure?!  Join us for this 2 day trip to Mosquito Creek Hostel.    Intermediate skiing level required. Cost includes: Awesome ACMG guide, transportation, use of snow safety equipment (shovel and probe) park fees and accommodation.  Personal ski gear, transceiver and meal costs not included.

Dates: Jan 28-29

Price: $120. To book email Christine at BanffLife.

Fun times in the hut!

Join this mountain adventure of a lifetime!  The Wapta adventure will provide you with spectacular skiing, wonderful views and a ski ascent or two depending on the skill set of the group. The Wapta Icefield is the area of glaciers between Peyto Lake and Wapta Lake, northwest of Lake Louise, one of the most beautiful in the world.  We will be spending the evening in a series of cozy mountain huts, complete with mattresses and stoves! You must be an intermediate skier, and able to carry food, clothing, equipment and sleeping bag. Cost includes awesome ACMG guide, transportation, use of snow safety equipment (shovel and probe) park fees and accommodation. Personal ski gear, transceiver and meal costs not included.

Dates: April 1-4 (4 days, 3 nights)

Price: $390. To book email Christine at BanffLife.