Day 1
Comprehensive avalanche companion rescue training snow profile and current snowpack analysis
We've created the next level intensive Backcountry and Avalanche Skills training camp, because after an AST 1 & 2 nothing exists to further the learning process. Often people seek the CAA Ops level 1 course as the next step, but that's not for everyone. That curriculum has a focus on recording standards to work as an avalanche professional not the actual decision making process. Enter the caPROcess. (CAPOW plus Process)
Learn from top certified guides a professional way to gather information, ground truth in the field, stimulate the conversation in a group and formulate a decision.
The AST 3 course comes with our very own PROcess field book, a curriculum we created to develop a systematic approach to decision making. “Over-a-cold-one(s)” evening sessions, we will build on the day’s curriculum, with the intention of developing personal decision-making and thought analyzing frameworks to take forward as a leader. Sessions will include comprehensive avalanche theory, and relate from our previous experiences through case studies.
We will be based out of Revelstoke, BC - setting us up for a different location each day. Big decisions start right away and keep happening all day. It will be up to us as a group to decide where to go and what to do. Expect to set the up-track, get coached along the way and learn how to stimulate the conversation in a group to get the best out of the day.
Our intensive program equips you with professional-level skills in avalanche forecasting, advanced rescue techniques, and terrain decision-making. Similar to a CAA Operations Level 1 course, it’s ideal for those seeking to enhance their expertise for personal use or as part of a broader skill set.
AST 3 course format is 6 days in the field, 4-6 people, where we hone skills sets, reading and evaluating terrain for decisions and of course, trying to also access the best possible skiing. In the evenings, we spend some time looking at the forecast and discussing what we saw. We also take time to talk through case studies and learnables.
As with all our courses, our guiding approach is educational, professional and discussion-based. Our ACMG certified guides will test your knowledge, but also be open to hearing your thoughts and questions. We want you to be the best backcountry partner you can be.
Group dynamics and vibe are so key in the backcountry. We excel in connecting the right environment for your ability, personality and interests. Think of us like the backcountry matchmakers; hook it up with the right guide, crew and direction for your experience. We’ve developed a way for you to communicate using your hands. Be honest and use this format to communicate your vibe.
Experience: You have a day or two out touring with friends but feel new and intimidated with 1) the term “complex terrain” 2) Transitions 3) multi peak day 4) Your outfit
Fitness: Love the outdoors, but wish you could get out more. A full day is fine, but prefer lots of snack breaks
Shredability: Strong intermediate. Can shred at least 85% of inbounds terrain at your local resort.
Experience: Completed either an Avalanche Skills Training Level 1 course or been guided backcountry skiing before. Generally proficient and confident with mountain travel. Limited experience in complex terrain, but excited to #exploremore
Fitness: Bring on a big day, but let’s talk the whole way. There’s more to life then panting for air.
Shredability: Advanced. Will shred all terrain and comfortable in changing snow conditions
Experience: You’ve been out there doing this for years maybe even completed an AST 2. You own an ice axe and aren’t afraid to use it.
Fitness: So you’re fit, and you identify yourself as such. You’re looking for big days and big vert.
Shredability: Humility is good but you can ski any terrain and make it look good.
Experience: Years of backcountry touring in complex terrain and a credible level of avalanche training. More-than-proficient with technical equipment: ice axe, crampons, roping up on a glacier.
Fitness: You think you can actually hang with Greg Hill?… the guy that ski toured 2 million vertical in a season.
Shredability: Rappel into a couloir or 10,000+ ft days – BRING IT
Peace Sign
Shaka Bra
Devil Horns
Air Guitar Comprehensive avalanche companion rescue training snow profile and current snowpack analysis
From the avalanche bulletin ground truth avalanche problems
Lead - find the best possible touring given conditions
Expect to stimulate the conversation and lead your group to success. Finish at the parking lot around 4pm
Full field day
Below is all avalanche course availability
No. BUT we are looking for a crew that has backcountry experience. Just let us know when you book. This is our highest level of education so we're looking for a very experienced group.
You will get a cool piece of paper that is a certificate.... but this is a new course, unlike an AST 1 or 2 that is nationally recognized. The value in the trip is a higher depth of decision making not the certificate.
No. The Ops 1 course instructs on avalanche recording standards.
This is original Capow! curriculum, and because we created it, we call it whatever we want. Us Canadians say PRO-cess, this camp is PRO level and all about developing a level of decision making... and also we love play on words.
PRO-cess field book. 4 Full days with an ACMG Certified Guide
Transportation. All of your personal backcountry gear. All meals
5pm the night before we will have a zoom call. We will meet each day at the trailhead.
Common, of course you are…encouraged even. Each trip we have a number of splitboarders. Make sure you have any extra bolts or parts specific for your set up.
Through Lifestyle Travel Insurance Services. It is custom to each person and trip. Follow this link to start the process. http://www.lifestylefinancial.ca/index.php/travelinsurance/capowguiding
We understand you’ve had something big come up (changed your millennial mind, you got bad frostbite, your loved one is making you go to your cousin's wedding) but we’ve saved you a spot. We can't just give you your money back. Here are your options // 1) Buy cancelation insurance, this makes it easy for everyone // 2) Excluding your non-refundable deposit, any amounts paid can be refunded or applied as credit at your discretion if you are making the cancelation 60 days or more in advance of the 1stday of the trip. // 3) If you are unable to attend a trip and notify us 14 days or less prior to the start of the trip, CAPOW guiding has the right to keep full payment. 4)If you are unable to attend a trip and are able to fill with a substitute to fill your space, DO THAT!!
YES - There are always cancellations. Give Sarah a message (info@capow.ca) and get your name on the list!
Look no further, you are not our demographic