11-Week Snowboard Instructor Courses

Extra Activities

We want you to experience as much of Canadian mountain life as possible and our Credit Activities allow you to do just that. During the course we organise a variety of "ADDITIONAL TRAINING" courses and "ACTIVITIES & TRIPS AWAY" designed to ensure that you leave Canada with a good knowledge of the local area and having experienced more than just great riding!

“The extra activities set NONSTOP apart! You really make the best friends on them.”

James Arnum-White, 28, Whistler 11-week course.

James Arnum-White, 28, Whistler 11-week course.

Get involved in Canadian Mountain Culture!

We're here to help you get involved in as much of the Canadian Mountain lifestyle as you can! Our 11-week courses are already jam packed with tons of training, qualifications and fun snowboarding activities designed to make you ride like a pro. Plus social activities such as trips to ice-hockey games, street hockey, curling and fancy dress parties but for those who want to 'have it all' we have something extra special...

In each resort our course hosts are locals and experts in their area. Each year they put together a number of activities for you to get involved in. We have split the activities into two categories: 'Additional Training' (to enhance your CV) and 'Activities and Away Trips'. See below for a list of all that is on offer...

Choose the courses and trips that interest you!

Additional Training

Avalanche course

1282

Finding fresh tracks after a huge dump of powder is one of the best things about snowboarding. Canada is renowned for the phenomenal amounts of snow it receives, which is fantastic but we believe it is essential that our clients are also aware of the risks involved. Certified by the Canadian Avalanche Association this course covers: avalanche theory, route finding, stability assessment and search and rescue techniques (including the use of transceivers, shovels and probes).

A short film about a few of the extra activities on offer

Winter survival camping

1283

Sound a little strange? It's actually one of the most popular and loved credit activities on offer and we implore you to give it a go! The activity includes instruction on winter camping techniques incorporating indoor theory, back-country touring, and then a night on the mountain spent digging your own snow shelter with your guide and friends, before huddling around a fire and then finally sleeping in your very own snow cave. This is a great team building and group management exercise, as well as being a rewarding and enjoyable experience that will remain with you for years to come. (All equipment is provided)

Seeing the layers of snow in Avalanche Training

Seeing the layers of snow in Avalanche Training

First Aid skills are vital on the mountain

First Aid skills are vital on the mountain

Winter first aid

Encouraged by many ski schools and recommended for backcountry riding, the first aid course provides practical experience, knowledge and confidence on how to react to an emergency. A wide variety of principle first aid topics are covered such as how to deal with frostbite, bleeding, breaks, and shock.

Activities & Away Trips

Guided backcountry touring

1284

Not many get the opportunity to explore Canada's expanse of rideable backcountry, so this is a great chance to see another side to the local area, apply your avalanche training and find your own fresh tracks. We'll leand you a 'split board' - essentially a snowboard that can be split down the middle and turned into skis.  For the uphill you'll be taught how to apply the 'skins' and then you'll be able to walk up almost any mountain face and for the downhill you'll clip it back together, remove the skins and ride some the most beautiful untouched powder around.

The scenery at the top of each hike is stunning and you'll appreciate the powder even more since you had to work for each epic turn, this is another 'must do' experience.

Cat-Boarding

1285

Like the idea of your own private ski resort for a day? Then look no further... Put your powder skills to the test in untracked bowls and tree runs. A typical day includes 8-10 runs in the backcountry, with no one else around except for you and your friends. After each run you then get a lift to the summit in snow cats or piste bashers. This will undoutedly be one of the major highlights of your trip to Canada!

Our guide to Cat-Boarding

Visit other resorts

We organise trips to other resorts to ensure you experience more of Canada and the fantastic snowboarding that's on offer. Whether it's a day trip to another local resort or a weekend road-trip to a powder haven, these always have a great social element as well as great riding!

Experience untouched powder Cat Skiing

Experience untouched powder Cat Skiing

A secluded log cabin on a Backcountry Tour

A secluded log cabin on a Backcountry Tour

Snowmobiling

1286

The title says it all, led by professional guides, this is a fun-filled afternoon spent driving snowmobiles with your friends. It's always a buzz, and a great way of exploring the Canadian wilderness. It's like mountain go-karting!

Visit Calgary or Vancouver

An action packed weekend watching NHL ice hockey and experiencing true 'Western' style night life!

The Credit Activity System

Having run these courses for over 8 years now, we know experiences like this shouldn't be missed and lots of the past NONSTOPpers have described the different trips as 'once in a life time' experiences. So why not get involved?!

Our CREDIT ACTIVITY system allows you to pick and mix from the list above to create your very own tailor made Canadian season. For the ultimate experience we recommend buying 60 credits ($600 Canadian Dollars) but you can buy more credits, if you have time to fit the activities in!

You could be the next person off on a cat-boarding trip in waist deep powder, dog sledding, snowmobiling or heading off into the back country powder for a night of winter camping and a morning of fresh tracks! (An experience not to be missed).

Get involved!

Extra Activities listed by resort

The activities listed below are a general guide of what is on offer in each resort. Each season these lists may vary depending on availability and cost. The credit amounts are also to be used as a guideline as these can change as well.

Fernie Extra Activities

HOT SPRINGS (30 CREDITS APPROX.)

A two-night trip to Banff visiting the famous Radium natural hot springs, experiencing the lively Banff nightlife, and skiing at Lake Louise.

OVERNIGHT TRIP TO CALGARY (14 CREDITS)

An action packed weekend watching NHL ice hockey and experiencing true 'Western' style nightlife!

GUIDED BACKCOUNTRY SNOWBOARDING (8 CREDITS)

A day exploring the pristine wilderness of the Fernie backcountry. This is a great chance to apply the skills learnt during the Avalanche course finding your own fresh tracks.

DAY TRIP TO KIMBERLY (FREE)

A chance to explore neighbouring Kimberley Alpine Resort, whose extensive groomed pistes and gullies through the trees offer a great day riding.

BIG MOUNTAIN - USA (30 CREDITS APPROX.)

A weekend trip across the border to Montana. Experience Big Mountain ski resort and the traditional bars of Whitefish.

CAT BOARDING (31 CREDITS)

A chance to put your powder skills to the test in the untracked bowls and tree runs of the Fernie wilderness. A typical day includes 7-9 runs with lifts to the summit in 12-man snow cats.

SNOWMOBILING (18 CREDITS)

A favourite pastime of many Canadians, snowmobiling is an exhilarating experience and a great way to enjoy the spectacular scenery around Fernie. Led by professional guides, this half-day tour will teach you the skills to safely operate your own snowmobile.

*All activities are based on last years prices, they may change if our suppliers change their prices.

Red Mountain Extra Activities

SNOWMOBILING TOUR WITH HIGH MOUNTAIN ADVENTURES
Snowmobiling tours are a scenic and exhilarating way to experience the spectacular West Kootenay mountains around Rossland. Professional guides will first give you a safety orientation and lesson on how to operate your own snowmobile. They will then lead you on snowmobile pistes into a backcountry wonderland.
Activity Includes:
• Professional guided tour in the backcountry
• Snowmobile, helmet, boots
• Lunch
• Transportation to and from snowmobile area (approx. 45 min. drive)
• 6 hours of adrenaline filled sledding in the backcountry
25 Credits

CAT BOARDING WITH BIG RED CATS
Cat Boarding is similar to Heli-Skiing except that instead of flying to the top of the hill you ride over the snow in a snow machine built to seat 12 people. A typical day includes 6-9 runs of wilderness riding and a chance to test your skills at skiing or boarding fresh powder. Big Red Cats is a local Rossland Cat Boarding operation that boasts 5 different mountains, and is situated minutes from Red Mountain Resort.
Activity Includes:
• Two professional guides per cat (group of 12)
• Safety instruction for wilderness skiing and avalanche rescue
• Full day of cat skiing in untracked powder
• Lunch & water
• Transportation to and from Big Red Cats base
40 Credits

CAT BOARDING WITH VALHALLA POWDERCATS
Nestled deep in the heart of the Valhalla Mountains, Valhalla Powdercats offers big mountains, high alpine bowls, steep terrain, and untracked deep Kootenay powder. A typical day included 5-8 runs of wilderness riding depending on the dynamic of the group and riding ability. Depending on snow conditions, you may get to make fresh tracks in the open terrain, or ride the steep trees, both equally enduring.
Activity Includes:
• 2 professional guides per cat (group of 12)
• Safety instruction for wilderness skiing and avalanche rescue
• Transportation to the base of Valhalla Powdercats (approx. 1hr drive from Rossland)
• Lunch
45 Credits

WEEKEND SOAK AND GETAWAY
A chance to visit the historic city Nelson and explore a different resort with new terrain and challenges, Whitewater Resort is a variation of the Red Mountain experience, known for its vast quantities of deep Kootenay powder! Participants stay at the Dancing Bear Hostel in the heart of Nelson. You will have time to explore the towns various boutiques, pubs and restaurants. We then travel to Ainsworth Hot springs for an afternoon of relaxation and rejuvenation, in the naturally heated pure mountain water. Activity Includes:
• A day of riding at Whitewater Mountain Resort in Nelson, BC
• One night accommodation at the Dancing Bear Hostel (shared rooms)
• Chartered transportation throughout the trip
• Accompaniment of NONSTOP staff member
• Admission into the outdoor mineral hot springs at Ainsworth
15 Credits

SALMO NIGHT RIDING
Come out and enjoy an evening of snowboarding under the lights at the Salmo Ski Hill. Salmo ski hill is a scenic 1-hour drive from Rossland. The experience here is a different spin on skiing and snowboarding, always a memorable night. The Salmo Ski Hill is equipped with 1 long t-bar, lights, and a classic Canadian vibe.
Activity Includes:
• Transportation to and from Salmo Ski Hill and Rossland
• Dinner
• 1 lift pass
• Accompaniment of NONSTOP staff member
3 Credits

WEEKEND TRIP TO FERNIE ALPINE RESORT
Spend a weekend at Fernie Alpine Resort, experience expansive five alpine bowls nestled in the majestic limestone cliffs of the Lizard Range in the Rocky Mountains. Rated one of the top ten resorts in Canada, Fernie offers endless and deep skiing and snowboarding action. Join the Fernie NONSTOP crew for a night out and indulge in the nightlife of this exciting Ski Town.
Activity Includes:
• 2 day Fernie lift pass
• 2 nights hostel accommodation (twin share) – Powder Mountain Lodge
• Chartered transport to and from Fernie
• Accompaniment of NONSTOP staff member
38 Credits

DOG SLEDDING
Powder Paws Dog sledding provides a truly Canadian experience with 34 beautiful Alaskan Huskies leading guests through the wilderness for an unforgettable experience with breathtaking panoramic mountain views of Red Mountain Resort and the Monashee Mountain Range. Be involved with harnessing the pack, sharing the guiding experience, and enjoying the thrill of adventure touring on a dog sled.
Activity Includes:
* 2 dogsleds with guides per 4 people
* Transportation to and from Powder Paws Base Camp (near Rossland)
* 2-3 hrs dog sled session per person
* Hot Chocolate & Snacks

12/dbl Credits
15/sgl Credits

SNOWSHOEING at NANCY GREENE LAKE
This is your opportunity to experience the peacefulness of the Canadian Wilderness. Strap on a pair of snowshoes over your winter boots and learn to stomp through the snow with ease and comfort. Spend some quality time walking the trail, venture across the frozen lake and into the snow laden forest. Finish the day off around a warm campfire, roasting sausages and marshmallows and sipping hot chocolate.
Activity Includes:
• Transportation to and from Nancy Green Lake
• Sledding equipment
• Food and Drink (Non-Alcoholic)
• Snowshoes
• Guide for Tour
4 Credits

AVALANCHE SAFETY TRAINING (A.S.T)
This is a Canadian Avalanche Association certified level one course. Gain an introduction to avalanche phenomena and the basic principles of safe winter backcountry travel with avalanche experts from Yamnuska. Obtain the knowledge you need to make your winter travels far safer and much more enjoyable. Our avalanche awareness instructors are full-time professional guides and forecasters, their extensive personal experience in this field will add an extra dimension of interest to make this information and advice meaningful, relevant and fascinating.
Includes:
• Indoor and outdoor training
• Probe/beacon/transceiver rental
• A.S.T. Level 1 Certification
22 Credits

WINTER CAMPING SURVIVAL TRIP
Experience the elements with winter camping. Build a snow cave for your nights’ sleep and learn the techniques and essentials to stay dry and warm throughout the night. Start out by snowshoeing up a marked trail to Whitewolf Ridge, and get a stunning view of Record Mountain. Get ready to dig, and learn the right and wrong ways of building your cave. Learn to survive a night in the cold and have fun at the same time.
Includes:
• Training by an experienced guide
• Transportation
• Sleeping Bag & mat, shovel, snowshoes.
• Food & Drink
10 Credits

GUIDED BACK COUNTRY RIDING
For this activity you will spend the day exploring the pristine wilderness and finding your own fresh tracks. Back Country Riding involves “walking” up hill in search of a virgin powder slope to ride down. Participants should be prepared for a physically challenging day. During the day you will be applying your Level 1 Avalanche theory in order to select the routes and slopes. Therefore, you must take the Level 1 Avalanche course in order to enjoy this credit activity.
Includes:
• Professional backcountry guides
• Touring Skis or Snowshoes and Skins
• Transceiver, probe, shovel, backpack
• Bus transportation
15 Credits

FIRST AID COURSE
Get certified with a 1 or 2-day course that includes CPR-C with 2 rescuers, automated external defibrillation training and standard first aid. Course includes manual and certificate. Areas of study also include emergency scene management, shock, fainting, severe bleeding, head/spinal and pelvic injuries, burns, poisons and more. This course is held in the local town of Trail.
1 Day = 10 Credits

2 Day = 19 Credits

*All credits are based on last years prices, they may change if our suppliers choose to change the prices they charge us.

Banff Extra Activities

JASPER NATIONAL PARK (17 CREDITS)

An overnight trip to the stunning Jasper National Park, skiing at Marmot Basin resort and enjoying the laid-back mountain town nightlife.

HELI-SKIING (70 CREDITS)

Experience the trip of a lifetime! Flying high above the Bugaboo mountain range of British Columbia you'll enjoy several exhilarating descents of unparalleled powder.

PANORAMA, BC (11 CREDITS)

A day trip to Panorama Mountain Resort, two hours south of Banff, exploring the famous Taynton Bowl, formerly heli-ski terrain.

KICKING HORSE, BC (11 CREDITS)

A day trip to Kicking Horse resort, renowned for its un-crowded open powder bowls and steep chutes.

SNOWMOBILING (25 CREDITS)

Travelling deep into the backcountry led by professional guides, this exhilarating day tour will teach you the skills to safely operate your own snowmobile.

JOHNSTON CANYON ICE WALK (7 CREDITS)

A half day hike through the spectacular and eerie Johnston Canyon. Travel through prime wildlife habitat to the breathtaking icefalls that the area is famous for.

TRIP TO CALGARY (14 CREDITS)

A chance to watch an NHL ice hockey game and experience true 'Western' style nightlife!

*All Extra Activities are based on last years prices, if our suppliers change their prices then our prices may change.

Whistler Extra Activities

GUIDED BACKCOUNTRY TOURING (8 CREDITS APPROX.)

A day exploring the famed and much filmed Whistler backcountry. This is a great chance to apply the skills learnt during your avalanche course and find your own fresh tracks.

CAT-BOARDING (52 CREDITS APPROX.)

A chance to put your powder skills to the test in the untracked bowls and tree runs of Whistler's backcountry. A typical day includes 6-8 runs with lifts in a 'piste-basher' to the summit. Hassle free powder heaven!

SNOWMOBILING (20 CREDITS APPROX.)

A favourite Canadian pastime, snowmobiling is an awesome experience and a great way to enjoy Whistler's spectacular backcountry scenery. Led by professional guides, this half-day tour will teach you the skills to safely operate your own snowmobile.

VANCOUVER WEEKEND (15 CREDITS APPROX.)

One of the highlights of our Whistler course is the weekend in Vancouver, enjoying some time in the big city, watching an NHL Ice Hockey match and making the most of the city's nightlife. The next day for those who are up for it we head to one of Vancouver's local ski hills - Cypress, Grouse or Seymour - which have great parks and groomers.

HUSKY RIDING (9 CREDITS APPROX.)

Join a team of world class Alaskan huskies and travel through the spectacular Soo Valley Wildlife Reserveon, close to Whistler. This is an adrelanline filled activity - leave your preconceptions at home.

HELI-SKIING (80 CREDITS APPROX.)

British Columbia is home to 90% of the world's heli and cat skiing operations and the Whistler area naturally hosts many of them. This day heli skiing includes three runs covering upto 2300 vertical feet of fresh powder. Approximately ten additional credits are required to choose heli-skiing.

*All prices are based on last years rates, these may change if our suppliers change their prices.

Weekly social events

In the spirit of team bonding we organise weekly social events such as:

  • Night riding
  • Road hockey (a classic Canadian pastime)
  • Tobogganing
  • Pub-crawls
  • Supporting the local ice hockey team
  • Curling
  • House parties
  • Ice-skating
  • ...and a whole lot more!


These evenings are lots of fun and help develop a close-knit friendly atmosphere.

The Curling social is a great ice-breaker!

The Curling social is a great ice-breaker!

Lots of partying...both on and off the snow!

Lots of partying...both on and off the snow!

Evening classes

We offer a selection of evening courses through local colleges. The following list is a sample of what's on offer but the courses differ depending on which resort you choose. Please contact us for further details.

  • French & Spanish for beginners (cost - c. $111)
  • Yoga & Pilates (cost - c. $92)
  • Ballroom basics & Latin dance (cost – c. $74)
  • Sport massage (cost - c. $92)