AST Level 2 or AIARE level 2?

**powder_to_the_people** · 10-24-2019, 11:15 AM

Hi all,

Haven't been able to find a ton of recent information digging through this forum, and my understanding is that the courses have evolved quite a bit over the last few years: is there a consensus on whether one of these course is better than the other?

I took the AST1 a couple of years ago and learnt a bunch of stuff, but want to make sure I'm more comfortable making decisions in the BC. It seems that the AST level 2 is four full field days + an evening of lectures, whereas the AIARE seems to be 2-3 field days + one full classroom day. Based on that I would be leaning towards the AST 2, but would like to hear what people have to say. I'm based in Seattle, so could travel up to whistler/squamish for the AST2, or take the AIARE locally.

Thanks!

**NWFlow** · 10-24-2019, 12:32 PM

AST 2. If you've started on that system, continue on it IMHO. Although allegedly the US program has dramatically improved with the pro rec split.

**SDW** · 10-25-2019, 10:01 AM

Other variables - like instructors, fellow students, venue, and conditions - add up to make a bigger difference than Canadian vs. U.S. systems.

**doebedoe** · 10-25-2019, 11:01 AM

If I could squeeze it in financially this year, I'd be going with Rob and crew: https://www.facebook.com/rob.coppoli...62377719350133

More here: https://www.vettamountainguides.com/rob-bio

**NWFlow** · 10-26-2019, 02:03 AM

Originally Posted by SDW

Other variables - like instructors, fellow students, venue, and conditions - add up to make a bigger difference than Canadian vs. U.S. systems.

Yeah, actually you are right. Especially for the OP's goals.

**powder_to_the_people** · 10-26-2019, 02:59 PM

Originally Posted by SDW

Other variables - like instructors, fellow students, venue, and conditions - add up to make a bigger difference than Canadian vs. U.S. systems.

That makes sense. I was thinking of going with Altus Mountain guides in Whistler: https://altusmountainguides.com/aval...el-2-whistler/.

Has anyone had any experience with those guys?