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 "High" avalanche danger days often involve avoiding all avalanche slopes at destinations such as Fuzzy Knob. On "Low" avalanche danger days, almost anything is possible..... In the past we have even skied the North Face of Mt Green with a fit and competant group. The objectives on your course will depend on the conditions and group fitness/ski ability level. We won't push anyone 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.
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.
Day 1 is mostly online classroom based, with a couple of hours outside in Revelstoke for avalanche rescue training. We'll meet online at 8:30am. Here we'll go through the theory and planning to get ready for our field days. We'll be finished online by 5:30pm.
Days 2-4will be full days in the field led by you. We will have short evening sessions 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 weather and snow 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.
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.
E-Transfer to gearysguiding@gmail.com is the preferred method of payment, otherwise please use the button below for credit card payments.
Please make sure you have read through the booking conditionsbefore making a payment. This includes completing the Waiver and Registration Form.
If the course above you're hoping to join is already full, please complete the Registration Form to join the waitlist. If you have a group of 6 people and you want to schedule a custom course, please contact us.
Learning to avoid slopes like this during an AST 2
Equipment
Please bring the following:
Skis or splitboard with touring bindings and skins that fit. (Snowshoes are not permitted).
Ski crampons MAY be required in some conditions.
Ski/snowboard poles
Ski/snowboard boots compatible with your setup.
Digital Avalanche Transceiver (3 antenna)
Avalanche Probe
Avalanche Shovel (must be collapsible)
Daypack (~30L).
Lunch and snacks
Water or thermos bottle (recommend 1-1.5L)
Headlamp
Personal 1st aid kit (blisters, band-aid’s etc.)
Warm and weatherproof clothing for moderate periods of inactivity in the mountains.
Gloves
Goggles
Sunglasses
Avaluator 2 (can be shared with another participant)
Map for Rogers Pass (can be shared with another participant)
If you need to rent equipment, Revelstoke Powder Rentals have everything you might need. They offer a 10% discount to course participants. You can call them at 250-814 4POW (4769) or visit their website.
Day 1 is mostly online classroom based, with a couple of hours outside in Revelstoke for avalanche rescue training. We'll meet online at 8:30am. Here we'll go through the theory and planning to get ready for our field days. We'll be finished online by 5:30pm.
