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.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
1 day (8 hours)
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition, able to handle moderate physical exertion in snow.
Wildlife
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.
Playwest Mountain Experiences
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.
Playwest Mountain Experiences is a guided outdoor company based in Invermere, British Columbia, offering a range of day hikes, multi-day trips, skills courses, and seasonal experiences across the Purcell Mountains and Kootenay National Park. Guided programming includes recreational hikes like Glacier View and The Lookout, seasonal highlights such as Chasing Golden Larch and Mountain Sunsets & Savoury Fondue, and skill-focused offerings including Avalanche Skills Training - 1 (AST-1) in partnership with Avalanche Canada and the Companion Rescue Refresher.
Trips are designed for small groups and emphasize safety, trip planning, and practical skills. Backpacking for Beginners - Ladies Edition provides a pre-trip information session and hands-on instruction covering gear, navigation, trip planning, and Leave No Trace principles. The 2 Nighter features on-trail meals and guided exploration of glaciers, alpine lakes, and backcountry terrain. Short family-friendly options, such as Wild Wetlands Adventure, focus on local ecosystems and wildlife viewing along the Columbia River bluffs.
Playwest Mountain Experiences lists courses and guided hikes with clear trip summaries and logistical planning to help participants prepare for each outing. The company’s programming spans introductory movement skills and moderate full-day treks, aiming to combine outdoor education with exploratory experiences in the Columbia Valley. All descriptions and course formats reflect the trip information and partnerships provided for each offering.
Base Location
Invermere, BC
Located in the Columbia Valley
Trails & Parks
Purcell Mountains
Operating near Kootenay National Park
Group Style
Small groups
Personalized guiding and safety
AST-1 Partner
Avalanche Canada
Certified avalanche training partner
Reserve a hike, course, or seasonal experience in Invermere — view trip details and availability before you go.
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.
Avalanche Beacon
A must-have for locating buried emergency transmitters during practice and real rescue scenarios.
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Shovel
Vital for digging out in avalanche rescue drills.
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Probe
Allows precise location of avalanche victims in snow.
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Waterproof outer layer
Keeps you dry in cold, snowy conditions.
winter