You haven't experienced powder until you have ridden Cortina - MountainWatch Travel
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Japan | Hakuba

You haven’t experienced powder until you have ridden Cortina

Cortina is a name that going a few years back, only a handful of people recognised. Some riders who had been to Hakuba even failed to realise it was there. However, even the best-kept secret gets out. A decision in the 2009/10 season to open up the resort’s off-piste terrain and allow free riders to enter (at their own risk) changed this. 

When free riding is combined with the highest snowfall and steepest gradient in the Hakuba Valley, this creates an off-piste powder mecca. Cortina is home to arguably some of Japan’s best lift-accessed free riding! Keep reading to find out why you haven’t experienced powder until you’ve ridden Cortina.

The Terrain

What better way to sum up the riding in Cortina than with an epic video full of pow? Enjoy endless powder turns in the ‘self-responsibility’ areas – essentially easily accessible, semi-off-piste areas. Numerous gullies, lips, trees, and drop-offs create a multitude of natural features that allow everyone to push their riding to the limit.

The incredible footage in this video was predominantly filmed on Cortina’s ‘south face’. AKA famous run accessed off the resort’s number four lift. This slope is the favourite amongst advanced skiers and boarders. Why? The natural face of the hill ensures the snow is deepest and lightest here. To return back to the base of Cortina you’ll need to traverse through the neighbouring ski resort (Norikura) – turning one run into an awesome adventure.

Insider Tip: GO HERE ON A POWDER DAY. You can basically ski any of the tree runs, and most on the front side of the resort.

Tree runs in Cortina
Tree runs in Cortina

If you’re ready to experience this powder paradise for yourself, complete an enquiry form, and our team will happily create a custom package for you. Discover our packages below:

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