HAKUBA
Like skiing on a cloud…
How many times have you personally skied in snow that goes right up to your knees? Well, last year in Hakuba, my clients got to enjoy it about a dozen times! Can you imagine?
Just how difficult is it to ski in this much snow? Truth be told, it can sometimes be tricky for Canadians who are used to skiing on groomed or icy slopes. But, with the right gear and a few tips from a seasoned rep, it can be quite an exhilarating experience!
Such thick snow cover can be a bit overwhelming at first. However, those who take it slow and exercise some patience get used to the feeling in no time—it’s a little like skiing on a cloud!
On the first morning with my group, I took them down in 60 cm of powder. Exhausted and famished after their run, they were quite happy to sit down to a hot and comforting bowl of delicious Ramen soup. While they rested, I decided to go explore a little out-of-the-way section of the mountain in the company of one of my more fearless clients. Standing above a sparse forest covered in mounds of snow, I repeated the safety instructions… and off we went! Our skis, boots and hips sank into the soft, fluffy powder, going deeper and deeper with every turn. Snow was flying up around our chests and faces. After about a dozen turns, no longer hearing my companion whooping and shouting for joy, I stopped to look back. Then, I spotted the tip of his skis sticking out from a bush just above me, and he burst out laughing. What an adventure! It was a great way to cap off my day, and as always, I couldn’t wait until the next morning to start all over again!
Guillaume Martin-Doire.
1704 m
11
904 m
22
50% 30% 20%
Yes
222 cm