Vancouver Area Avy 1 Comparison?

[BCtransplant]

I'm planning on taking an AST1 course early this season, and I'm looking for opinions / feedback on the local classes - namely the offerings from:

- Whistler Guides
- The Mountain School
- Baker 200 Level Course

I've searched, and found threads on a few of the above, but nothing too comprehensive. I read through the old Vancouver thread and there's some good data there, but is there a general mag consensus of who offers the best local course? Most knowledgable instructors? Any beta from people who have actually taken any of the above?

I have a feeling the course selection is probably secondary to how I put my learning into practice afterwards, but I'd welcome any comments.

Also, is it a better idea to wait until a little later in the season in order to see a wider range of layers / snowpack?

[LeeLau]

December is a good time to take the course. Deeper snowpacks tend to be boring and safe.

Take a course where you will spend time in the field where you will ski.

If in doubt pick something with more field work then classroom work

Read the books and Tremper (or some other book) beforehand so you have some background- you will get more out of the course.

All these courses are good. The wildcard is the instructor

[powderslayer]

I would recommend whistler alpine guides bureau to anyone. they have a really competitive rate, their guides are really knowledgeable, and you spend the whole time in whistler. As for content, i think most of the courses will be pretty similar. with alpine guides, you spend two full days on the mountain, which i found to be really helpful in dialing my avy skills.

[khyber.pass]

Canada West Mountain School too. Check out where the courses are held. Right now, you'll need to be in Whistler. Depending on what happens this week, many avi courses might be cancelled until there is more snow ..