Avalanche Operations Level 1.
The Avalanche Operations Level 1 course is the premier entry point into professional avalanche risk management in Canada. Designed for individuals seeking employment in ski resorts, highway and industrial operations, guiding, and recreational avalanche education, this course provides the foundational knowledge and practical skills required to work safely and effectively in operational avalanche programs.
Through a combination of classroom learning and hands-on field training, students develop competence in avalanche observations, data collection, hazard assessment, and decision-making, preparing them for a career in the avalanche industry and further progression within the Canadian Avalanche Association’s Industry Training Program.
Contact Student Services for more info.
The course schedule is intensive and includes a combination of classroom sessions, field exercises, and evening assignments, leaving limited free time throughout the program. Expect long days that begin early, challenging winter conditions, and physically demanding fieldwork that requires advanced backcountry travel skills and the ability to perform repeated snowpack observations.
Delivery Format: 40% classroom 60% field-based
Duration: 7 – 8 days
For courses requiring lift access, lift tickets are provided. Students with a season pass are encouraged to bring it. Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from the course and field locations.
Lodge-based courses include meals, lodging, and transportation from the staging area to the lodge. The proximity to field study locations provides an enhanced learning environment and direct access to backcountry terrain. Students are also expected to participate in daily lodge duties.
For more details, including learning objectives and assessment information, download the course outline.
- Introduction to Avalanche Operations
- AvSAR Level 1
- Advanced backcountry skiing, splitboarding, or snowmobiling skills, and good fitness
- Be 19 or older for courses in British Columbia, or 18 or older for courses in Alberta and Quebec
- AST 1
- AST 2
Important: Students who do not meet the above criteria on the first day of the course will be required to leave the course.
Town-based courses:
Registration Fee: $275.00 (Non-refundable)
Tuition: $2,388.00
Intro to Avalanche Operations: $135.00 (Non-refundable)
Total: $2,798.00
Intro to Avalanche Operations: $135.00 (Non-refundable)
Lodge Fee: $2,776.44 (Non-refundable)
Total Fees: $5,306.44
Purcell Mountain Lodge
Registration Fee: $275.00 (Non-refundable)
Tuition Fee: $2,120.00
Intro to Avalanche Operations: $135.00 (Non-refundable)
Lodge Fee: $2,279.16 (Non-refundable)
Total Fees: $4,809.16
Burnie Glacier Chalet
Registration Fee: 275.00 (Non-refundable)
Tuition Fee: $2,120.00
Intro to Avalanche Operations: $135.00 (Non-refundable)
Lodge Fee: $1,940.04 (Non-refundable)
Total Fees: $4,470.04
Kootenay Pass
Registration Fee: $275.00 (Non-refundable)
Tuition Fee: $2,120.00
Intro to Avalanche Operations: $135.00 (Non-refundable)
Lodge Fee: $1,064.14 (Non-refundable)
Total Fees: $3,594.14 (Non-refundable)
After registration, students will receive a detailed preparation guide that includes access to the Introduction to Avalanche Operations online course, required pre-course preparation activities, and a detailed course schedule.
- required to bring all items listed on the Student Equipment List (PDF)
- responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the course and field locations.
