Elevate Your Avalanche Knowledge with West Coast Educational Adventures

Take your passion for the backcountry to new heights with West Coast Educational Adventures. We offer a wide range of Avalanche training programs to suit students of all levels, from beginner to advanced training sanctioned by Avalanche Canada.

In addition to our standard courses, we also have specialized search and rescue programs, including post-avalanche rescue and subject management. Whether you want to take a class on your own or schedule a private course with friends, we have got you covered. We are proud to offer all of our courses in both English and French. Contact us for pricing and scheduling information today!

Avalanche School Program (3 hrs, Grade 7-10)

This avalanche awareness workshop is perfect for winter sports enthusiasts who want to learn about the dangers of avalanches and how to reduce the risk of being caught in one. The three-hour program covers understanding avalanches, recognizing hazardous terrain, and basic survival skills in case of an avalanche. This workshop is not a substitute for a comprehensive avalanche training course certified by Avalanche Canada and the Canadian Avalanche Association.

Avalanche Skills Training Level 1 (AST 1, 2 days)

Take the first step in your backcountry journey safely with Avalanche Skills Training Level 1 (AST 1). This comprehensive course is designed for all levels, including beginners, and covers the fundamentals of avalanches, including formation and release, recognizing and avoiding avalanche terrain, and using appropriate travel techniques in such terrain. The AST 1 course includes both online/classroom and field components and covers essential skills, such as companion rescue. Get started on your journey to safely explore the backcountry today.

Companion Rescue (1 day)

This hands-on, one-day Companion Rescue Skills course is a must-have for all winter backcountry recreationists. Improve your rescue skills from AST 1 and refresh previous training with realistic scenarios and the latest techniques. Learn how to respond safely and efficiently to an avalanche incident, sharpen your transceiver skills, use probes effectively, and master shoveling techniques. Cover important topics like transport, SAR communication, and hypothermia and exposure management. Be prepared in the moment and after an avalanche.

Managing Avalanche Terrain (MAT, 1 day)

Take your backcountry knowledge to the next level with the Managing Avalanche Terrain (MAT) course. Designed for those who have completed AST 1, this advanced program improves terrain assessment skills through hands-on field training. Learn advanced techniques to minimize risk when travelling in the backcountry, develop your winter backcountry travel skills, and become a more knowledgeable and confident backcountry adventurer.

Avalanche Skills Training Level 2 (AST 2)

Take your backcountry skills to the next level with Avalanche Skills Training Level 2 (AST 2). Designed for those who have completed AST 1 and have some backcountry experience, this course explores new techniques and builds on the foundation of AST 1. With a minimum of 9.5 hours of classroom instruction and a minimum of three days in the field, you will put your newfound knowledge into action. Learn best practices for progressive planning, apply the Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale to your own terrain ratings, and make informed decisions to manage avalanche risk. Enhance your companion rescue skills and deepen your understanding of avalanche terrain and snowpack. Join us for AST 2 and take your backcountry skills to the next level.