What is CAT Skiing/Boarding?
The machines you see grooming ski hills are similar to the ones we use to transport skiers/snowboarders into the backcountry. Here skiers/snowboarders can enjoy an exciting day with a certified guide, carving through powder and endless terrain while absorbing spectacular views. No lift lines, epic powder all day, great atmosphere, deep snow and untracked lines. It's like the first run on a chairlift on a powder day, every run.
What type of Snowcats do you use?
Fully equipped Piston Bully Snowcats. Luxury seating for 12, 3 regular seats for Guides (don't worry, we are small people) ski racks, panoramic view windows, and Wi-Fi sound system. We operate only one Cat per day, which means that you have the whole mountain for yourself and your group. So no other people will be stealing your lines. It means fresh powder in every run.
Is CAT skiing safe?
Every sport has its risks, and backcountry skiing is not an exception. But our team of guides, with worldwide backcountry experience (Alps, Canada, South America, Japan, etc.) are daily monitoring and checking the conditions to ensure your personal safety. They know how to read the terrain and keep you away from any known hazard. You are provided with all the backcountry equipment necessary (an avalanche transeiver, you get a run through on what to do if an avalanche occurs, and a backpack with prove and shovel). It's ok to bring your own equipment too! We work hard to make the tour as safe and fun as possible. It is mandatory for all tour participants to sign a Waiver Form. Any participant under the age of 19 must have a parent or guardian sign on their behalf.
What level of Skier/Boarder do I have to be?
You should be a strong skier, but you don't have to be an expert. To have an enjoyable time catskiing, you should feel comfortable skiing almost any run at Niseko United ski resort, in all snow conditions (no necessarily powder) and terrain (Bowls, gullies, trees, steep runs…). Catskiing operators do a good job of trying to match up the skiing levels in the groups that are skiing. We also try to match groups to terrain Our guides are all fully certified instructors who can help you with tips and pointers throughout the day to help you get comfortable in powder snow and ski better. Untracked snow is great for learning to ski or ride in powder. If you are holding up the group then you may be asked to sit out a run, or to stay in the cat for your own safety. In some cases (always as last option), the group can be split in two. Please determine if this is for you. If you are asked to sit out, there is no refund. Please respect the guide's decision to keep you safe. Backcountry skiing is not for beginner skiers. If you aren't sure, it is better to underestimate your ability than to over-estimate.
What should I bring?
You need to bring all your regular ski gear. Don't forget you gloves, goggles and poles. A face mask is highly recommended as powder in japan is deep. You'll be so excited with the fluffy Japan's powder that will be impossible to close your mouth during the downhill!! Aside from the normal gear, it is a good idea to have a range of good wicking clothes in layers, as the weather can change throughout the day and you aren't going back to the base during the day. If you have a backpack and avalanche gear, that is also good to have, but not imperative. We do have lunch during the CAT Tour, but we don't provide any snacks or water inside the cat, so if you need some extra energies, feel free to bring your own snacks, energy bars, energy drinks or water. Same happens with footage. We will be taking pictures and make a video recap of your day, but feel free to bring your action camera so you don't miss any single angle of your turns. We also strongly recommend you bring powder specific skis or snowboard, the snow is really deep and your day will be much more enjoyable with appropriate equipment.
What kind of Skis/Board should I bring?
Fat Skis and powder boards make a huge difference in your enjoyment of catskiing. It allows you to ski through the deeper and different snow conditions with ease and get the most floating fun out of your day. Japan is famous for its super deep fluffy powder snow, and trust us, it is really deep and fluffy. So fat skis and powder snowboards will make your day even more fun. NAC recommends bringing skis with a centre width at least of 100cm, and a snowboard of 157cm (Men's board) or 152cm (Lady's board). Telemark skiers are welcome too!!!! Powder skis/boards are not mandatory, but it would make your day way more enjoyable.
Is there an age restriction for CAT skiing?
At Nac we think that Catskiing is for the whole family. But you must be over 13 years old in order to follow guide's instructions and keep a safety environment. Between 16 to 19 years old, teenagers are welcome to come by themselves, but the waiver form must be signed by a tutor or guardian.
What's kind of terrain will I find?
OTOE POWDER CAT RESORT used to be a ski resort. So, you name it, we have it! Old ski runs, wide open bowls, tree runs, gullies, ridges, mellow runs… The peak of Otoe is 803m, so even if it doesn't look to high, has a nice powder snow Our private mountain will suit all levels and abilities. From the newbie into powder skiing, to the powderholic, looking for powder runs to never forget.
Can I drink beer/alcohol during the tour?
No, of course not! It is not permitted to drink alcohol or use any non-prescription drugs during your cat skiing day in order to keep a safety and fun environment. At the end of the tour, we make a video showing at Jojo's, the restaurant at the top of Nac's building. There, feel free remember the best moments of the day with a beer and your friends.
Should I tip my hosts?
Gratuities are not expected or required however they are always appreciated.