Learn to Travel Safer in the Winter Backcountry
Winter adventures are powerful, but they come with real risks. Avalanche awareness is not optional for anyone venturing into backcountry terrain.
Women’s Adventure Network is offering six fully funded spots in an Avalanche Skills Training Level 1 (AST 1) course to support women in building essential knowledge, confidence, and decision-making skills for winter backcountry travel.
This course is an ideal first step for those who want to explore winter terrain more responsibly through hiking or snowshoeing.
A big thanks to Avalanche Canada for funding this initiative.
What Is AST 1?
Avalanche Skills Training Level 1 (AST 1) is the nationally recognized introductory avalanche safety course developed by Avalanche Canada.
This two-day program combines:
- One full day classroom learning
- One full day of in-field training with a certified instructor
You will learn how to:
- Recognize avalanche terrain and hazards
- Interpret avalanche forecasts and weather patterns
- Understand snowpack basics and what’s hidden beneath the surface
- Make safer group decisions in winter terrain
- Practice essential companion rescue skills (transceiver, probe, shovel)
No previous avalanche training is required. This course is suitable for those who have experience snowshoeing or hiking in the winter.
What's Included?
- AST 1 course tuition and materials (fully covered)
- Instruction by a certified Avalanche Canada instructor
- Classroom learning + in-field training day
- A supportive, women-centered learning environment
- Transportation on field day from meet up location to venue
Participants are responsible for:
- Personal winter gear and avalanche safety equipment
- Transportation for day 1 and to the pick up location for day 2
- Meals and refreshments
- Physical readiness for a full day outdoors in winter conditions
Who Is Eligible?
This opportunity is ideal for women who:
- Are actively participating in snowshoeing and/or hiking in winter
- Are willing to actively participate in the full course (classroom+ field day)
- Can commit to hosting one activity for WAN after course completion
- Align with WAN’s values of community learning and peer leadership
- Follow WAN’s Instagram page
A Give-Back Commitment
This course is free to attend thanks to funding from AvCan.
In return, selected participants are asked to:
- Host (or co-host with a WAN volunteer) one activity for WAN within 3 months of completing the course
- Activities can be beginner-friendly and low-risk, such as: a winter hike or snowshoe outing or an indoor climbing session
You won’t be expected to teach avalanche skills. WAN will support you in planning an activity that fits your comfort level.
Ready to Apply?
Only 6 participants will be selected. Applications will be reviewed based on:
- Motivation and readiness to apply the training
- Alignment with WAN’s community values
- Commitment to giving back to the community
Complete The Application Form
Deadline: January 18, 2026 at 11:59 PM MST
Applicants will be notified via email by January 23rd.