My partner and I just finished our AST 2 with Alex Geary and it was miles beyond our expectations. Alex found a way to give us some of our best touring days ever while still teaching us so much along the way. The course was worth it's price for the quality guiding alone, and is a no brainer considering all the knowledge we also gained.
This AST 2 course based in Revelstoke has been designed for ski tourers/splitboarders who want to learn how to navigate the complex terrain in Rogers Pass. As the students, you will be planning the trips, breaking trail, and leading us downhill. All this will be under the supervision and guidance of your instructor.
Objectives on storm days with "High" avalanche danger often involve staying close to town and avoiding all avalanche slopes at destinations such as Fuzzy Knob. With "Low" or "Moderate" avalanche danger we can often make it up to a summit in Rogers Pass. The objectives on your course will depend on the conditions and group fitness/ski ability level. We won't push you to do anything you're uncomfortable with, and we won't let you go anywhere we feel uncomfortable with.
If you've completed an AST 2 in the past and are thinking about refreshing or furthering your learning, please check out the Advanced Avalanche Course (like an AST 3).
Instructors
This course will be taught by Alex Geary or Madeleine Martin-Preney. We are both CAA Avalanche Professionals and certified ACMG Ski Guides, who have been living in Revelstoke since 2010.
Itinerary
Day 1 starts at 8:30am in the classroom. We will spend the morning going through theory. After lunch we will spend a couple of hours outside in the snow (on foot, not skis) practicing avalanche rescue, before returning to the classroom for a trip planning session. We should be finished by 5:00pm.
Days 2-4will be full days in the field led by you. We will have short evening sessions online on days 2 and 3 for trip planning. We will probably spend most of our time at Rogers Pass, but we might also visit Mt MacPherson, The Gorge, or other local areas depending on the weather and conditions.
Prerequisites - AST 2
Over 19 years old (unless accompanied by a parent)
20 days experience ski touring/split boarding
Confident skiing/riding expert terrain at a typical ski area (eg. Double Black Diamond runs at RMR, Whistler, Kicking Horse)
This will allow us to access interesting terrain and get away from the busiest zones to maximize learning opportunities. If you are unsure of your ability please send us an email.
Payment via E-Transfer to gearysguiding@gmail.com is preferred. Wise, cheque and wire transfer are also accepted.
If the course is already full, please register to join the waitlist. If you have a group of 6 people and want to schedule a custom course, please contact us.
Want to take it further this season? AST 2 is also offered as part of the Ultimate Everything Course, December 16-23, 2026 at Icefall Lodge, alongside a Glacier Travel Course and The Art of Up-tracking Course. Seven days at a remote heli accessed lodge to put it all into practice.
Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain, Bruce Tremper (Recommended reading)
If you need to rent equipment, Revelstoke Powder Rentals has everything you might need. They offer a 10% discount to course participants. You can call them at 250-814-4769) or visit their website.
Objectives on storm days with "High" avalanche danger often involve staying close to town and avoiding all avalanche slopes at destinations such as Fuzzy Knob. With "Low" or "Moderate" avalanche danger we can often make it up to a summit in Rogers Pass. The objectives on your course will depend on the conditions and group fitness/ski ability level. We won't push you to do anything you're uncomfortable with, and we won't let you go anywhere we feel uncomfortable with.
Day 1 starts at 8:30am in the classroom. We will spend the morning going through theory. After lunch we will spend a couple of hours outside in the snow (on foot, not skis) practicing avalanche rescue, before returning to the classroom for a trip planning session. We should be finished by 5:00pm.
