Avalanche Skills Training Level 2 (AST 2)
Price: 55,000Yen/person
AST 2: This 4 day course builds on the foundations of AST 1 and is the next step in your avalanche education. Course objectives include progressive planning and safe travel techniques, increased proficiency in companion rescue, use of the Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale (ATES system) and use of the Avaluator 2.0 as a decision making tool.
This is a certified course offered under the authority of Avalanche Canada. Additional course details along with a number of other great learning resources can be found on the Avalanche Canada website.
Course fee includes course materials and 4 days of instruction.
Backcountry touring equipment is required but not included in the course price. Splitboards are highly recommended for snowboarders. More info below.
2023 – 24 Course Schedule
Dec. 12 – 15, 2023
March 6, 7 & 10, 11 2024
Additional course dates may be added on request if there is sufficient interest.
Time
The AST 2 course starts at 8:30am and will run through until approximately 5pm each day unless otherwise discussed with course instructors during the course.
Location and Access
We utilize several different classroom locations in the Niseko area. The location of each course is determined depending on the number of participants registered. All of our classroom locations are located within a 15 minute drive of Hirafu however none of the classroom locations are within walking distance.
We offer a free shuttle from Hirafu Seicomart to the course location with pick up at 8:45am. You will be able to request a shuttle at the time of booking.
Required Equipment
- Avalanche rescue equipment (transceiver, shovel, probe and backpack)
- Ski touring equipment (AT skis and skins for skiers and snowshoes or splitboard for snowboarders)
- Regular ski / snowboard wear
- Spare goggles and gloves
- Extra layers to stay warm in the field
- Additional gear details will be provided with pre-course information and discussed in trip planning classroom sessions
Rental Gear
If you don`t have your own backcountry equipment, Rising Sun offers rental equipment at discount rates for course participants.
- Avalanche safety equipment: 4000Yen (covers rental as needed for duration of course)
- Touring equipment: 6000Yen (covers AT Ski or splitboard rental as needed for duration of course)
Pricing
- 55,000Yen/person
- Some field days may require single ride tickets to access the backcountry (max 2000Yen/person)
