In collaboration with ACC National, our section is organizing an ‘(Almost an) AST 1 Program’. This series provides avalanche skills to sections where AST courses are not readily available. This program is not intended to replace the AST curriculum, but to provide interim training to ACC members until a course is accessible to their area.
To register, please contact contact Addie Typa at snow@alpineclubtoronto.ca.
WHEN:
- Thu Dec 26 @ 9 pm EST: (Almost an) AST 1 Program – Virtual Session 1/2
- Fri Dec 27 @ 9 pm EST: (Almost an) AST 1 Program – Virtual Session 2/2
- Fri Jan 3 @ 9 pm EST: (Almost an) AST 1 Program – Intro to Backcountry Skiing
- Sun Jan 12 @ 9 am EST: (Almost an) AST 1 Program – Field Day
WHERE:
- Links to virtual sessions provided on registration with trip leader
- Field Day: Boyne Valley Provincial Park
DESCRIPTION (Virtual Sessions):
- Virtual Session 1 & 2:
The online sessions will be led by ACMG Ski Guide Doug Latimer – an accredited CAA (Canadian Avalanche Association) instructor – and will follow as closely as possible the current AST 1 curriculum. - Intro to Backcountry Skiing:
This webinar is designed for skiers and split boarders eager to step off the groomed trails and into the wilderness. This webinar covers essential skills including gear selection and use, navigation, terrain selection, and basic backcountry techniques. You’ll learn how to use avalanche safety gear, assess snow conditions, and make informed decisions while skiing in the backcountry. With expert instruction from Ski Guide Doug Latimer and a focus on safety, this course is the perfect first step for anyone wanting to enjoy the thrill of skiing in untouched snow!
DESCRIPTION (Field Day):
The in-person field day will be Section-led and provide participants with the opportunity to practice the Avalanche Skills hands-on with their equipment. Topics covered during this field day includes:
- Weather and conditions assessment
- Transceiver test and demonstration
- Transceiver search patterns
- Probe assembly and use
- Shovel digging techniques
- Full rescue practice in groups.
We will be accessing Boyne Valley from the Prince of Wales Rd parking and travelling as a group for up to 2km to one of several sloped clearing options. Depending on snowfall levels leading up to the event, snowshoes/ skis may or may not be useful for the approach. Carpooling can be arranged between participants.
NOTE: Snowpack testing is not in the scope of this activity as interpreting the tests is an advanced skill and should be taught by a course instructor experienced with the current CAA OGRS.
MAX. PARTICIPANTS: 12, at the trip leader’s discretion.
REQUIRED GEAR: Avalanche transceiver, Avalanche shovel, Avalanche probe, Suitable winter clothing and backpack, Lunch and water, Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, SPF lip protection).
OPTIONAL GEAR: Ski/snowboard helmet (mandatory) & goggles, Skis/Splitboard with boots & skins – OR – snowshoes and warm comfortable boots, Poles. There will likely not be enough snow to necessitate the Slope-meter phone app, Avaluator chart.
PROVIDED GEAR: First Aid Kit, Satellite Communicator, Emergency Shelter.
COST: Free for ACC members.
TRIP LEADER: To sign up or get further details, contact Addie Typa at snow@alpineclubtoronto.ca
TRIP CLASSIFICATION: A.
TRIP HAZARDS (Must read BEFORE registering):
– Boots and Binding Systems – If used;
– Communication and Rescue – Large group;
– General Hazards – Cold temperatures, Wind exposure; and
– Terrain – Snow and ice causing slips, trips, and falls.
WAIVER: Please read the ACC waiver before attending. Members should ensure that their membership is up to date and have signed the online waiver.