The world of skiing and snowboarding expands when you ski in the backcountry
Backcountry skiing freely through untouched nature, unmanaged by humans . It is a field that anyone who has been skiing or snowboarding for a long time dreams of and aspires to skiing someday. Once you step into the world of BC, you will be overwhelmed by its awesomeness and become hooked. What exactly is that “charm”?
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5 attractive points of the backcountry
1. Freedom and adventurous spirit can be obtained
Location: Hakuba
When we ask avid skiers and snowboarders about the appeal of backcountry travel, many say, ``I like the freedom.'' The backcountry is truly free in the sense that it is not managed by humans like a ski resort.
In addition, the backcountry gives rise to a sense of adventure and a sense of danger that cannot be experienced at a ski resort.
This freedom gives the essence of adventure to mountaineering, and encourages skiers to explore new landscapes and slopes they have never seen before.Of course, there are some restrictions such as rules and etiquette that must be followed to ensure the safety of you and your companions, and to protect the natural mountain environment.
2. The whole mountain is a field
Location : Hakkoda Photo by KinTone
Unlike the slopes maintained by snowmobiles, the real pleasure of backcountry skiing is skiing through untouched nature. There are many variations, including not only powder, but also spring corn snow, hard-packed ice cream, fluffy snow, and crunchy bad snow. Powder skiing is probably the most popular option in backcountry areas, but it's also fun to explore the various snow conditions in its natural state.
3. Infinite slope variations
Location : Hokkaido Powder belt Photo by RIKI JAPOW GUIDE
Unlike the slopes of ski resorts, which are restricted by courses, you can ski anywhere you can.
The variations of the slopes are infinitely rich, just like the natural topography. There are open bahns beyond the forest line, tree areas in the forest zone, breathtaking steep slopes, and all kinds of slopes. The backcountry is an endless expanse of varied slopes brought about by the topography created by nature. The choice is also free in the backcountry.
4. More than just skiing, the comfort of surrendering yourself to the bosom of nature
Location : Hokkaido Photo by Trive Mountain Guides Hokkaido
In front of you is a silver world that stretches out forever, a big sky, and beautiful nature. A mountain surrounded by silence, with no man-made objects or noise. One of the great appeals of the backcountry is that you can enjoy a quiet moment in front of the majestic scenery of snowy mountains. How comforting it is to leave all the hustle and bustle of the city and everyday life in the back of your mind and surrender to nature.
5. Climbing by yourself makes one run so fulfilling
Location : Myoko Photo by InField
It is possible to use power such as helicopters and cat, but backcountry is also a big element and part of the fun to climb step by step towards the peak or slope of the mountain you want to ski.
The scenery you see while climbing is different from what you see from the ski resort. The trees and snow that you usually don't notice will catch your eye, and you will discover something new, and the feeling of climbing while stepping on the snow will surely be fresh. It's strange because I feel an indescribable sense of accomplishment when I reach the top even though it's a tough hike. As much as you have worked hard to climb, you will feel that you will cherish each and every one of them, and you will be able to make the most of your time on the mountain.
+α Increased interest in the natural environment
Being in the snowy mountains makes you realize that humans are part of the natural world and that we coexist with nature. Another benefit of the backcountry is that by going into the backcountry, you become interested in issues of the natural environment and develop a sense of valuing nature.
Location : Hokkaido Photo by Hokkaido Backcountry Guides
How to get started in the backcountry for beginners
The backcountry is full of charm. If you are an interested skier or snowboarder, where should you start? First of all, before using a guided tour, it is important to know the necessary equipment, prepare it as much as possible, and acquire at least basic knowledge.
Take a guided tour
Location : Photo by JUNRINA
Beginners in the backcountry should definitely avoid traveling alone. No matter how good your skiing skills are, to avoid risks, it is best to take a tour sponsored by a guide club and have a professional guide lead you in the beginning.
Guide clubs are familiar with the mountains where they host tours.
With their specialized knowledge and skills, they support first-timers and those with little experience. For skiers making their backcountry debut, we offer lectures on the necessary mountain knowledge, and rather than heading straight into the backcountry, you can first get used to fat skiing on uncompacted snow slopes on the slopes, and learn the necessary skiing skills. There are also training programs to help you acquire skills.
A good way to start is to experience the backcountry up close and personal, and then step up little by little.
In order to operate under rapidly changing natural conditions, you need to be equipped with more items than when skiing on the slopes in order to obtain safety and comfort. The first step to backcountry adventure is knowing what equipment you need. We will explain the details here.
●Know the basic equipment needed for backcountry travel
There are many dangers lurking in the untouched natural snowy mountains. It is impossible to predict when and how all kinds of dangers such as whiteouts due to sudden changes in weather, getting lost or lost, avalanches, injuries due to collisions with trees and rocks, trouble with tools, etc. There are a few things you should know to reduce your risk. There are also manners that should be followed so that everyone can enjoy the mountains comfortably.
Backcountry guide club with beginner tours
Photo by Shoji Matsumoto
Among the many backcountry guide clubs, let's introduce a guide club that offers programs and tours especially for backcountry beginners and beginners.
