GOAL: To have candidates attain an understanding of mountain awareness and guiding principles to become proficient with the technical and practical skills needed to work as assistant ski guides within a mechanized backcountry operation.
PREREQUISITES
- Summer Glacier Course or equivalent
- Canadian Ski Guide Level 1
- Canadian Avalanche Association Level 1
- Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance Level 2 or equivalent
- Employment in a Helicopter or Cat Ski Operation for 2 years and minimum 60 days experience
- Back country ski touring resume or trip log documenting experience Current 80 Hour
- First Aid Certificate Recommendation from a mechanized ski industry operator
Transceivers
- Basic proficiency demonstrated by finding 4 transceivers buried 60cm deep 30m x 30m area within eight minutes. The first transceiver found must be left on. Probe targets are to be used. The targets can measure up to 30cm x 30 cm.
Rope Handling
- Demonstrate ability to build anchors, perform a lower, rappel a fixed line and ascend it.
- Understand the fundamentals of a crevasse rescue system and be able to lead an organized rescue.
- To be able to demonstrate a dropper loop system in the field within a timed period. The timed period will be at the discretion of the instructor/examiner depending on the site.
- Demonstrate a rescue system in the field and be able to adapt it to different systems i.e.: how to transfer the load, pass a knot, not enough rope, adding in mechanical devises and advantage, self-tending brakes.
Avalanche Rescue
- Understanding the fundamentals of a self rescue and be able to take charge, organize and act as a rescue leader in a search
Navigation
- To be able to interpret basic terrain features in the field onto a map and from the map into the field
- Use a map, compass and altimeter to set up route plans and move through alpine terrain during whiteout conditions
Snowpack Observation
- To dig snow profiles and make observations within the time constraints of a mechanized skiing operation
- To determine suitable tests for specific terrain features or stability conditions
Terrain Assessment
- To adequately assess significant terrain features.
- To identify hazards and hazard potential.
- To route-find through terrain identifying safe and suitable routes.
- To identify the safest routes in any given piece of terrain
Ski Guiding
- To understand the fundamentals of guest management and be able to effectively communicate directions.
- To understand the application of specialized guiding techniques.
Field Books
- Document daily observations and activities for reference and liability using a blank paged field book
Mountain Sense
- Demonstrate backcountry awareness and the fundamentals of safe decision making.
Attitude and Disposition
- Ability to work on a team, be open to new concepts, strategies, and demonstrate good leadership qualities
Dates
See Course Dates Tab for upcoming course dates.