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The Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale

Online Trip Planner

Another easy way to figure out how appropriate a trip is for the day’s avalanche conditions is to use the online trip planner. Once you select your destination, this tool automatically applies the current avalanche danger rating for the region and places the trip in the appropriate position on the Avaluator chart.

In this example, the Online Trip Planner shows that travelling in simple terrain during moderate hazard requires normal caution.
In this example, the trip planner shows that travelling in simple terrain during moderate hazard requires normal caution.

The online trip planner includes the ATES ratings for mapped areas, the location of major avalanche paths, main access trails, and key decision points. You can download the maps so you can use them offline. With the appropriate mapping software on your phone or GPS device, you can see when you’re transitioning between simple, challenging, and complex terrain.

Hover over or tap on the icons to learn more about the different elements of the ATES map.

Click on the Avalanche Canada icons to learn more about the different elements of the ATES map. The yellow lines are designated trails. A marker on the mapGreen areas are simple terrain. A marker on the mapBlue areas are challenging terrain. A marker on the mapBlack areas are complex terrain. A marker on the mapThe red lines indicate avalanche paths. The arrows indicate the direction of the slide path. A marker on the mapThe caution symbol indicates a key decision point. A marker on the mapThe snowflakes indicate popular destinations. A marker on the mapThis symbol marks the location of cabins. A marker on the map
Avalanche Canada

The online trip planner works for ATES-rated areas. This includes all managed snowmobiling areas in BC, several BC provincial parks, and a few popular backcountry skiing spots. There are also ATES ratings for the mountainous areas of western Newfoundland, in and around Gros Morne National Park.

If you are planning a trip where there is no ATES rating, you will need advanced training to make your own judgment regarding how exposed the terrain is to avalanche hazard.