A gorgeous blue sky day in Niseko! Perfect for exploring the mountain and checking out our resident volcano, Mt Yotei. Only a dusting last night so conditions were a bit lumpy and bumpy, but it was still worth putting in the turns. Light to moderate snowfalls and cold temperatures are forecast for Niseko this week.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Japan Snow Report - 22th Jan 2011
It's been a week of non stop snowfall in Niseko! Strong winds and low visibility have also been a feature but that hasn't stopped skiers and boarders enjoying the amazing snow cover. We may see heavier snowfalls again on Sunday.
Niseko Avalanche Information - 2011.01.22
Current Official Snow Depths:
Grand Hirafu:
Top - 340
Bottom - 180
Niseko Village:
Top - 290
Bottom - 185
Annupuri:
Top - 240
Bottom - 200
Grand Hirafu:
Top - 340
Bottom - 180
Niseko Village:
Top - 290
Bottom - 185
Annupuri:
Top - 240
Bottom - 200
Annupuri peak 6am: -14℃, W8m/s. 15cm of overnight snowfall.
W to WNW wind that was blowing at around 20m/s above 1000m yesterday morning has calmed down and is stagnating around 10m/s this morning. Although the snowfall amount varies on the slope orientation in 800m or lower areas, the overall condition seems to be in good shape. The snow condition is variable in slopes above 1000m, where wind-affected hard-pack, hard slabs and soft fresh snow can be found in the same slope. A relatively shallow surface slab avalanche risks is still to be considered in leeward steep slopes above 1000m. Personally evaluate the risks you’re taking before dropping into a slope. Be especially careful of the snow conditions in leeward gullies’ walls, around developed cornices and slopes with sudden gradient shift. Carelessly dropping into places like the Backbowl, many people dropping in the same slope all at once or traversing all the way underneath cornices have to be avoided unless you’re trying to deliberately cause an accident. All gates are scheduled to open this morning including Peak gates 2 & 3 at 10am. Seek for the ski patrol’s instructions at the gates.
W to WNW wind that was blowing at around 20m/s above 1000m yesterday morning has calmed down and is stagnating around 10m/s this morning. Although the snowfall amount varies on the slope orientation in 800m or lower areas, the overall condition seems to be in good shape. The snow condition is variable in slopes above 1000m, where wind-affected hard-pack, hard slabs and soft fresh snow can be found in the same slope. A relatively shallow surface slab avalanche risks is still to be considered in leeward steep slopes above 1000m. Personally evaluate the risks you’re taking before dropping into a slope. Be especially careful of the snow conditions in leeward gullies’ walls, around developed cornices and slopes with sudden gradient shift. Carelessly dropping into places like the Backbowl, many people dropping in the same slope all at once or traversing all the way underneath cornices have to be avoided unless you’re trying to deliberately cause an accident. All gates are scheduled to open this morning including Peak gates 2 & 3 at 10am. Seek for the ski patrol’s instructions at the gates.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Japan Snow Report - 21th Jan 2011
It was windy, cold and low visibility today but the conditions were epic! 20cm of fresh snow and plenty of super sweet turns to be had in the trees. Snowfalls should get heavier over the weekend and then we may even see some clear sky next week!
Japan Snow Report - 20th Jan 2011
A real mixed bag today! Winds were strong this morning so some lifts were on hold and the higher ones were running at slow speeds. Then the wind dropped slightly and the sun came out! But no matter what the conditions you can still have a great day in Niseko, check out today's report for some tips on skiing and riding when it's windy.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Japan Snow Report - 19th Jan 2011
5cm of snow on the ground this morning - just enough to cover our tracks from yesterday. Some of the more popular runs were pretty bumpy, but there were still plenty of fresh lines to be found around the resort. Consistent snowfalls are forecast from now until at least the weekend!
How to Tackle Steep Decents on a Mountain Bike.
We are using our standard methodology -- attitude, speed/line and actions.
Our attitude will determine the speed and line we take; and those combined will determine the actions we need make to execute the maneuver.
You need to study the terrain to ascertain the line you will take and to ensure in this situation has a good finishing area to roll out.
If it's your first time, then I suggest a slower speed through the maneuver, which is how I will tackle this.
Our attitude will determine the speed and line we take; and those combined will determine the actions we need make to execute the maneuver.
You need to study the terrain to ascertain the line you will take and to ensure in this situation has a good finishing area to roll out.
If it's your first time, then I suggest a slower speed through the maneuver, which is how I will tackle this.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)