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Trip

Whitecap, BC

Ski & Snowboard

Trip Whitecap, BC, AST 2 Course
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Questions? Let us help! Call us at 1-866-386-1590
Take your avalanche skills training to the next level in the British Columbia Backcountry

If you have your Avalanche Skills Training course-1 (AST-1 or AIARE 1) and dedicate most of your free time to recreating in the backcountry; this course with our partners at Whitecap Alpine is for you. This Avalanche Level 2 course builds on the foundations of your AST-1 and provides a more advanced decision-making framework for traveling in avalanche terrain - plus it’s located in one of the coolest places in the world, Whitecap’s McGillivray Pass Lodge.

This avalanche class comprises of both indoor theory sessions at the lodge and field days in the famous backcountry terrain nearby. This 4-day course package includes not only all instruction to receive your AST 2 certification but also round trip heli transport to McGillivray Pass Lodge, all lodging, and all meals, allowing you to focus on in the field and classroom course work and enjoy the beauty and amazing terrain in the area.

The primary focus of the avi 2 course will be on developing and implementing a system for assessing and evaluating potential avalanche slopes in the backcountry in regards to the hazard that they present. We will emphasize the practical collection and analysis of relevant data that an average backcountry skier or splitboarder would be able to use as the basis for making their decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain.
 

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Itinerary
Itinerary
  • 1
    Day number 1
    December 17 Meet at Pemberton Airport at 9am for your helicopter safety briefings and waiver signing. After that we will transfer to the helicopter staging area in D’Arcy, please be sure to have self-transport, as transportation is not provided to D’Arcy. We will fly into McGillivray Pass Lodge and get ready to head out for a half-day in the field, reviewing topics from AST 1, followed by our first evening theory and learning session.
  • 2
    Day number 2
    December 18 Get up early and eat breakfast before we head outside for a full day of in the field course work. We will start each day with a review of current conditions and weather forecasts. We will follow lunch with more terrain analysis, snowpack assessment, rescue skills training and touring! At the end of the day we will wrap up with another evening of theory by the fire.
  • 3
    Day number 3
    December 19 Repeat! We will spend another full day in the field followed by one more evening theory session and some dedicated self-study time.
  • 4
    Day number 4
    December 20 Enjoy one more day in the field with your fellow students. We will head out for an early tour and review what we have learned over the course. Today is the perfect day to fine-tune your backcountry communication skills and observe terrain with the group. We will enjoy one last dinner together and have some free time before the course is over.
  • 5
    Day number 5
    December 21 Head out for one more morning session and recap what you have learned over the course. We will plan on departing the lodge at noon. Once we arrive back in D’Arcy say your goodbyes and head home.
Trip Package Includes
  • Helicopter transportation into the Lodge from the staging area in D'Arcy
  • 4 nights accommodation at McGillivray Pass Lodge based on double occupancy
  • All meals cooked by a private chef
  • AST-2 course instruction by professional members of the CAA and ACMG guides
  • AST-2 certificate upon completion of the course
  • Avalanche manual "Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain"
  • CAA Rite in the Rain field book "Decision Making in Avalanche Terrain"
  • $100 gift certificate for a future Whitecap Alpine Adventure
  • 20% discount code at evo.com (exclusions apply)
Not Included
  • Transportation to and from Pemberton Airport & staging area in D’Arcy
  • Lodging in Pemberton or Whistler prior to your arrival
  • Any specialty or alcoholic beverages (you may bring your own drinks)
  • Touring or avalanche gear (beacon, shovel, probe)
  • Travel Insurance (we recommend World Nomads) 
  • Tips for your mountain guides (if you choose to leave one)

    Questions? Call or email us! 
Pre-Requisites
  • Previous Avalanche training (AST-1 or equivalent)
  • Competent in backcountry travel
  • Strong intermediate or higher skiing/snowboarding ability
  • Ski Touring/splitboard equipment with climbing skins
  • Avalanche Kit: 30L pack, avalanche beacon/shovel/probe
  • Minimum age of 16 years
Area Information
Avalanche Skills Training (AST) 2 Course

The primary focus of this course will be on developing and implementing a system for assessing and evaluating potential avalanche slopes in the backcountry in regards to the hazard that they present. The course will emphasize the practical collection and analysis of relevant data that an average backcountry skier would be able to use as the basis for making their decisions regarding travel in avalanche terrain.



What you will learn in an AST 2:

 

  • Progressive planning and travel techniques that are required to travel safely through various types of terrain
  • Key techniques for using the Danger Rating on a local scale
  • Key techniques for applying the Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale (ATES) technical model to develop personal, local terrain ratings
  • Avalanche mechanics, including correlation of weather to snowpack, layering, effects of temperatures, principles of slab failure, leading causes of instabilities and forces involved in avalanches
  • Observing, collecting and recording information in the field through activities such as hasty-pits; avalanche activity; wind loading, and snow distribution and depth; snow testing; weather observations; and, terrain assessment
  • How and when to perform a variety of shear tests, such as pole test, compression test, burp, ski cutting, Rutschblock; and, to know how to relate each test to the overall "big picture"
  • Self-rescue procedures and protocols, including multiple transceiver searches and companion rescue
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Trip Planning

Trip Planning

To prepare for your AST Avalanche 2 course please make sure that your skis, splitboard, and avalanche gear is all in working order before you leave home. This course is split between backcountry and classroom training sessions - be sure to bring what you need to be comfortable during long days out in the backcountry. In addition to lots of moving, touring, digging pits, etc. You will also be receiving instruction and standing outside for long periods of time so be sure to bring lots of packable layers! Bringing extra gloves and goggles can also help make sure that you are comfortable during long days outside. Please remember there is a 40lb weight limit for your personal items (not including ski gear) on the helicopter.
Travel Documents
Ski Clothing
Other Important Items
FAQ
FAQ
  • What training do I need to have to participate in this course?
    Previous Avalanche training (AST-1, AIARE 1 or equivalent) is required to take this course.
  • What skill level is required for this course?
    This can be a physically demanding course. Learning will be greatly enhanced if you are a comfortable rider or skier in all snow conditions on a variety of terrain. A year or more of backcountry skiing or snowboarding is recommended.
  • Who are the guides?
    Whitecap guides are all UIGM /ACMG certified and are at the top of their class in, skiing, snowboarding and navigating the backcountry. Their guides practice the most up-to-date methods of snow evaluation and rescue techniques.
  • Are rentals available or do I need to bring my own equipment?
    Yes, rental gear is available and can be rented directly through Whitecap Alpine. Please inquire with evo for pricing. Rental options include, G3 skis and split-boards with skins and poles, Arc'teryx 30L packs, G3 shovels and probes, and Mammut beacons.
  • What is AST and what prerequisites will I need to start my AST 2?
    The AST courses are avalanche courses designed by the Canadian Avalanche Association and stand for Avalanche Skills Training AST. AST courses use some tools and nomenclature unique to Canadian avalanche training programs, but if you are coming from the US, you find similarities to American Avalanche Association courses. You will need to be certified with a previous AST 1 or AIARE level 1 course before signing up for your AST 2.
  • What if I need to cancel?
    evo will refer to Whitecap Alpine’s cancelation policy: All cancellations must be received in writing. If a notice is received more than ten weeks prior to the starting date you have two options: a) You may rebook your reservation if you find an alternative date of the same season at Whitecap and McGillivray Pass Lodge, or Whitecap International. b) You will be given a full refund, less a $400 administration fee if notice is received less than 10 weeks prior to the starting date, no money will be refunded. There is no refund for leaving early or arriving late
  • I am gluten-free / vegetarian / halal/kosher… will there be food options available for me?
    Yes, and… The lodge will do it's very best to accommodate all dietary restrictions, For special needs, we recommend you contact us via email ([email protected]) with your specific questions. For all dietary restrictions, we recommend that you bring some snacks just in case.
  • When and how do I meet up with the group?
    You are responsible for booking your own travel and you must arrive at the Pemberton Airport the appointed time on your day of departure. Please be sure to bring your own vehicle to the airport as the heli - staging area is a 45-minute drive from the airport.
  • What is the maximum number of guests on the trip? What is the guide to guest ratio?
    There is a maximum of 12 guests for this course. There will be 2 guides on the course so 1 guide to 6 guests.
  • Can I choose my roommate?
    Yes. If you have a roommate request, please let us know. By default, we will place two-four guests per room.
  • Can I book a private room?
    No, unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate private rooms on this trip.
  • Is there a minimum age required for this trip?
    Guests must be at least 16 years or older to participate in this course.
  • Do I need travel insurance?
    While it is not required, we always recommend purchasing travel insurance for all trips. Travel insurance allows you to seek reimbursement if you are forced to cancel your trip for unforeseeable reasons, or if you need to cover medical help, emergency transport, theft and/or accidental damage while traveling. We recommend World Nomads.

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