Today I attended an avalanche film and education afternoon in Hakuba with the Evergreen guys. In Hakuba we have an endless supply of backcountry and also what is commonly known as slack country meaning the lift will actually take you to the drop in spots. The afternoon was a reminder to all of us here of the risks involved in heading out into the wilderness. The motto is be prepared. Beacon, probe and shovel are the minimum requirements along with at least some knowledge of avalanche risk. The film “Fall Line” has some interviews with people who have been victims of avalanches and they tell their storys of their time under the snow. It must be remembered that it is not only the risk of being buried by meters of debris but the broken bones, cuts and bruises that go along with the fall. We advise all our guests to head out with one of the reputable guiding companies here to get an understanding of local conditions and snowpack before they venture out by themselves to what truely is one of the best backcountry zones in the world. I can recommend the movie not only to warn but to inspire you to get out there and experience the joys of backcountry skiing and boarding.

http://www.whitehorse-hakuba.com