Want to attempt Mt Yotei? Here are 10 things you will need:
1. Timing: low avalanche danger, low winds and clear skies is the optimum day to aim for.
2. Avalanche safety gear: transceiver, probe, shovel.
3. Meticulous planning: make sure you know where you are going. Don’t rely on other people’s skin tracks. Always have a turn back time strictly set in place.
4. An extra layer: it is extremely cold at the summit even with low winds.
5. A touring set up: Alpine touring bindings for skiers, splitboard or snowshoes for snowboarders.
6. Climbing skins: nylon or mohair strips that are fitted to the shape of your ski or splitboard.
7. Some food and plenty of water (1.5L recommended minimum)
8. A spare set of goggles
9. Sunglasses and sunscreen
10. A sense of humour: it can be painful, but it is fun, so enjoy it!
Best time:
Late February or early March, as there are more sunny days, less wind and fewer storms, though it is certainly possible at other times.
Advice:
Hire a guide; understand how to use back country safety equipment; be prepared for bad weather – just because it’s sunny when you start out, doesn’t mean it will stay that way all day; hire a guide.
Guiding:
Niseko Avalanche Reports:
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Music:
Flume – Insane (Jey Vazz Remix)
Pete & The Pirates – Come On Feet
#japow #yotei #hokkaido
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