Iwatake
Iwatake is an intermediate skier's dream and boasts the best views in the valley along with one of the best halfpipes.
- Lifts:16
- Runs: 30% Beginner 50% Intermediate 20% Expert
- Longest run: 4.5km
- Steepest run: 35
- Elevation – Top: 1289m
- Bottom: 750m
- Night skiing: no
Just a 5-minute free shuttle bus ride from the lodge.
The summit of Iwatake mountain is separated slightly from the main range, which gives it those great views. A variety of open to tree-lined courses radiate down from this summit to all sides.
Beginners
Beginners can cut their teeth on the lower slopes before heading up on the gondola to the wide-open expanse of the family course on top of the mountain. This is an ideal place to learn with the stunning views and a nice restaurant at the top of the lift easily at hand. You can then take the gondola down again at the end of the day.
Intermediates
A superb place for intermediates. All but a few of the runs are ideal for this level, and intermediates will love exploring all sides of the mountain.
Experts
There are a few challenges for expert skiers. The front face above the car park is quite steep in places, especially on the left-hand side. On a powder day, expect to get some nice tracks for quite a while after a dump because not many of your fellow skiers at Iwatake will venture into it. Also, a little-known fact is that Iwatake has some nice powder treed areas in pockets all over the mountain. Fun can be had exploring these areas.
Freestyle
There is a great halfpipe at the top of the mountain with a park that gets better every year. The park is especially good for learning jumping.
Backcountry
There isn't backcountry as such at Iwatake because the resort occupies the whole mountain, but fun can be had in the powder in the trees.