Tanigawadake in Winter

Snowshoeing up and snowboarding down

C. Rio Jan 10, 2014 - 1 min read

<p>Leaving the protection of the trees, we start to climb the ridge line</p>

<p>A group of eager hikers we met on the way up</p>

<p>This hut is open year round providing accommodation and food</p>

<p>Making the last push to the summit</p>

Of all the seasons to climb Tanigawadake, winter is certainly the most dangerous and difficult, but also the most rewarding. In most cases, special equipment is necessary for both ascending and descending. On the way up, snowshoes allow you to traverse the upper slopes with ease. The endless steps and rocky scrambles are buried under several meters of snow and ice. On the way down, an avalanche beacon, probe and shovel (as well training in how to use them) can be the difference between life and death. Views from the peak on a sunny day more than pay for the effort, as does the ride down on a white carpet of snow.