Aim

AST2 builds on AST1 fundamentals, emphasizing advanced terrain management and safe travel in avalanche terrain. Enhance your avalanche awareness and decision-making skills for confident backcountry navigation.

Objectives

• Confidently apply advanced terrain analysis to identify and manage complex avalanche terrain
• Confidently perform snowpack tests (e.g., Compression Test, Extended Column Test) and interpret results
• Comfortably create and adjust backcountry travel plans using weather, snowpack, and avalanche data
• Comfortably manage group travel through variable and challenging avalanche terrain
• Comfortably use field observations to assess snow stability and adjust terrain use accordingly
• Understand how to track persistent weak layers over time and across different aspects and elevations
• Understand how to integrate field data with public avalanche bulletins for real-time decision-making
• Understand how to conduct structured route planning and implement dynamic risk management in the field
• Understand effective emergency response strategies in complex rescue scenarios
• Develop personal leadership and decision-making skills in a backcountry team environment

Prerequisites

• Completion of Avalanche Skills Training 1 (AST 1)
• Comfortable skiing or snowboarding intermediate (blue square) terrain at a ski resort if participating on skis or splitboard
• No specific prerequisites for participation on snowshoes, but a high level of winter backcountry fitness and travel experience is recommended
• Basic familiarity with avalanche safety equipment (beacon, probe, shovel) and its use
• Ability to travel in backcountry terrain for full days in winter conditions

*Prerequisites are recommended for an optimum learning opportunity.
If you have questions about how your experience relates to the prerequisites, please contact us at info@peakstratagem.com.

Avalanche Skills Training 1 (AST1)

View Gear List