Training
Both lodge-based and town-based Operations Level 1 courses provide the same quality training and core curriculum, but the logistics and experience are different.
Lodge-based courses are held at remote backcountry operations. The additional course fee includes lodging, meals, and transportation from the staging area to the lodge. The remote setting provides an immersive learning environment, with close access to the operation’s terrain and facilities throughout the course. Being based directly in the field allows students to spend more time studying snowpack and avalanche terrain. Lodge-based courses also provide an opportunity to experience the day-to-day operations of a backcountry facility. Students are expected to participate in daily lodge duties as outlined by the facility operators and course instructors.
Town-based courses are generally based out of a ski hill or other nearby field location. Students travel to and from the classroom and field locations each day and are responsible for arranging their own accommodation, meals, and transportation. These courses have a lower overall cost and may be a good option for students who prefer to arrange their own accommodations and logistics.
Yes. If your course uses a ski hill, lift tickets are included in the course fee.
If you already have a season’s pass, please bring it with you. Lift tickets are provided through our resort exchange agreements, so there is no reduction in course fees if you already have a season’s pass.
Review our Prior Learning Assessment FAQ section
There are a variety of scholarship and funding opportunities available to students. Visit our Scholarships & Grants page to explore employer-specific, student-specific, and government funding opportunities.
Registration opens at different times throughout the year, depending on the course:
- Fall courses: Registration opens in late June.
- Winter courses: Registration opens in September.
- Operations Level 2 and Level 3: Registration opens annually in July and is available only to students with an approved application.
Students are encouraged to register early, as courses may fill quickly.
Please refer to the Refund and Cancellation Policy.
All student tuitions, except online, private and funded courses, are insured through the A.W.G Dewar Tuition Refund Plan. Please review the policy overview to better understand the coverage and its limitations. To initiate a tuition insurance claim, contact Student Service: studentservices@avalancheassociation.ca or 604-757-2113.
Students will receive digital copy of the course manual upon registration. Hard copies are available through Kindle Direct Publishing and typically arrive within 1-2 weeks.
Avalanche Skills Training (AST) courses are designed by Avalanche Canada for recreational backcountry users and delivered by independent third-party providers licensed by Avalanche Canada. AST courses focus on developing the skills and knowledge needed to travel safely in avalanche terrain for recreation. AST courses are not part of the CAA Industry Training Program (ITP) course progression, but are recommended for those considering a career in the avalanche industry.
Industry Training Program (ITP) courses are delivered by the Canadian Avalanche Association (CAA) and are designed for individuals pursuing a career in the avalanche industry. ITP courses focus on professional skills including snow science, professional rescue, avalanche risk management, and working within a structured operational environment.
Most winter field based courses involve spending full days outside in winter conditions. Students must be able to travel safely and efficiently in a variety of winter snow and terrain conditions while carrying a backpack with food, rescue equipment, and winter clothing.
AvSAR courses
AvSAR students generally remain in bounds and travel relatively short distances between field sites. Ski and splitboard participants should be comfortable using touring bindings and skins and travelling uphill between locations. Students should be at an advanced level of skiing or snowboarding at the resort and able to confidently handle flat sections and traverses.
Students should be comfortable travelling safely and efficiently in a variety of snow and terrain conditions, including icy and uneven terrain. Students should be prepared to participate in multiple scenarios that involve moving through uneven terrain, shoveling, and other physically demanding activities.
Operations Level 1 and 2, Instructing in Avalanche Terrain courses
Operations courses require a higher level of backcountry travel skill and fitness.
Ski and splitboard participants should:
- Be comfortable with sustained uphill travel, including track climbs of approximately 600 m vertical for Operations Level 1 and up to 700 m for Operations Level 2.
- Be capable of riding in a variety of snow conditions, including deep snow, breakable crust, and wind slab.
- Be comfortable travelling in treed and undulating or variable terrain up to approximately 35 degrees.
- Be able to travel safely and efficiently in backcountry terrain, without falling often and in a timely manner.
Snowmobile and snowbike participants should:
- Be at an advanced level of riding in untracked snow and be comfortable climbing, side-hilling, and descending.
- Be capable of riding in a variety of snow conditions, including deep snow, breakable crust, and wind slab.
- Be comfortable riding in treed and undulating or variable terrain up to approximately 30 degrees.
- Be able to travel safely and efficiently in backcountry terrain, maintaining their chosen line and riding in a timely manner.
Students should also be prepared for physically demanding field days and regular snow profile excavation.
