As a lodge manager in Niseko you get asked a lot, what else can I do today other than ski or snowboard. One particular guest who was an ex professional snowboarder was on a rest day and wanted some thrills. I knew exactly where to take him, Hirafu Snow Adventures. An hour later after some superb service from our team at Explore Niseko we were on our way to a fun packed 60minutes.

We were picked up from our lodge by Ben the owner of HSA, all kitted up in our snow gear. Only a short ten minute drive away and we arrived at Ben's Buckwheat farm, which was a powder paradise with a perfectly manicured track built by Ben and his team overlooking the beauty of Mount Yotei. There's a warm place for your family/partner to sit and wait for you if they aren't up for the thrill, or they can go outside and take photos of you thrashing the bikes to show everyone back home. The track comprises of some epic turns and jumps for all ages and levels, with spectacular views, the smell of two stroke and at least a foot of fresh powder. What more could you want?

Speed you say? With a variety of different size snowmobiles ranging from 600 to 900cc Ben and his team really take care of you and make sure you are fully comfortable before you head out. The Timbersled bikes range from KX450's, KTM450's & Husvarna 450FC's, so plenty to choose from for those experienced riders. After a informative 5-10 minute safety brief inside in the warmth in front of a fire, demonstration and chat about what to do if you press the kill switch (which I recommend you avoid), clipped the helmet on, and we were off on our own for 60mins of speed, thrill and powder!