Winter Safety & Avalanche Skills at Playwest Mountain Experiences
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
1 day (8 hours)
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition, able to handle moderate physical exertion in snow.
Overview
Get trained in avalanche safety at Playwest Mountain Experiences and learn to navigate winter landscapes confidently. Discover what makes this course a vital part of your winter adventures.
Avalanche Skills Training - 1
Ages 12+ • Multi-Day • Stay Safe in the Backcountry!
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About This Adventure
Join Avalanche Canada & Playwest’s AST-1 course to master essential skills for safe backcountry winter adventures. Learn avalanche hazard recognition, snowpack science, and rescue techniques while gaining hands-on experience with safety gear. This comprehensive training empowers you to navigate stunning landscapes confidently, ensuring both your safety and enjoyment in the wilderness.
Join Avalanche Canada & Playwest’s AST-1 course to master essential skills for safe backcountry winter adventures. Learn avalanche hazard recognition, snowpack science, and rescue techniques while gaining hands-on experience with safety gear. This comprehensive training empowers you to navigate stunning landscapes confidently, ensuring both your safety and enjoyment in the wilderness.
Adventure Tips
Dress in layered clothing
Wear moisture-wicking base layers and waterproof outer layers to stay comfortable and dry during the course.
Bring safety gear
Carry your avalanche beacon, shovel, and probe as required for hands-on practice sessions.
Check weather conditions
Review weather forecasts before attending to ensure safety and appropriate gear preparation.
Arrive early on the day
Allow plenty of time to settle in and prepare for the full day of training.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Snowshoe hare
- Moose
History
The AST-1 course has been a cornerstone of winter safety education since its nationwide implementation in 2003, transforming casual skiers into responsible backcountry explorers.
Conservation
Playwest Mountain Experiences emphasizes low-impact travel, encouraging participants to practice Leave No Trace principles and respect local wildlife habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Calgary
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Avalanche Beacon
A must-have for locating buried emergency transmitters during practice and real rescue scenarios.
winter specific
Shovel
Vital for digging out in avalanche rescue drills.
winter specific
Probe
Allows precise location of avalanche victims in snow.
winter specific
Waterproof outer layer
Keeps you dry in cold, snowy conditions.
winter specific