Intro to Backcountry

If you are an experienced rider but are yet to fully find yourself in the backcountry this is for you. It is designed for those that are comfortable riding anywhere on the mountain and want to push themselves and explore new areas of riding out of the confines of the resort. 

OUR IDEA

to introduce the fundamentals of safe backcountry travel. More and more people are venturing out of the resort in search of virgin powder. We have seen an increase in accidents over the last few winters due to more riders getting themselves into unfamiliar territory. This Intro to Backcountry aims to give riders some basic knowledge, skills and decision making ability in order to keep them and their group safe, whilst enjoying the mountains and everything that comes with it. 

      SCOPE

          This is not an official Avalanche Safety Training, rather a backcountry tour with more emphasis on imparting safe travel habits.

          We aim to address the following; 

       Avalanche Safety Gear:

1. • Transceiver (Beacon)

   • Probe

   • Shovel 

     Equipment:

• Splitboard or Snowshoes

• Skins

• Bindings, Boots & Extendable Poles.

     Knowledge and Skills:  

• Where to find reliable weather, snow & avalanche forecasts & reports

• Route finding (ascent & descent)

• Deciding where to ride (aspect & elevation)

• Powder riding techniques

• Handy mountain resources

      DAY FLOW  8am - 4pm 

•  Pick up from accommodation and morning briefing. Where we aim to hike, ride and why

•  Equipment check. Transport to the trail head. Convenience store stop for snacks

•  Gear up. Basic Avalanche Safety Equipment check, explanation, demonstration and practice

• Start hiking. Find the safest and most efficient way up the mountain

• Ride POW. Find the best terrain with the best snow whilst minimising risk

• After a full days hiking and riding we finish up with a debrief at the cars

• Optional onsen on the way back to your accommodation

     INCLUSIONS                                                                                                     EXTRAS

          ~  A full days guiding in the mountains                                                              ~  Splitboard, snowshoes or ski touring set up (rentals can be arranged)

~  Avalanche Safety Equipment (beacon, probe, shovel & backpack)              ~  Lunch, snacks

~  Transport in a private 4wd vehicle                                                                   

~  Useful knowledge & skills to keep you and your friends safe

~  Local insights into onsens, restaurants, bars, nightlife, culture etc.

~  A good time!

We are certified in Avalanche Safety & Wilderness First Responder, as well as qualified and experience instructors. Not only can we show you how to travel safely in the backcountry but we can also improve your powder riding to help you get the most out of your time in the mountains. 

American Pro 1 Avalanche Safety

New Zealand Mountain Safety Council Avalanches Operations Stage 1

Wilderness Associates Wilderness First Responder 80hr 

OPG Guiding Policy

Paramount for Otaru Powder Tours is the safety and well being of our guests. Our extensive experience in the mountains of Hokkaido gives us a profound respect for nature, and we may be forced to alter our plans if we encounter adverse conditions that may put our guests at undue risk.  Your safety is our top priority. Whilst we try to include our guests in the decision making process, ultimately the final decision rests with the guide and his/her decision is final.