Niseko Grand Hirafu Snow Forecast

Laax already has one of the planet’s strongest reputations with boarders and freestyle skiers, including, it claims, “the largest half pipe in the world,” …but rather than rest on its laurels the Swiss resort says it will be adding a fifth terrain park this coming winter. The new "Free60" Natural Snow Park’s main selling point will be minimal intervention in whatever the natural conditions are. Located between Crap Sogn Gion and Plaun, there’ll be a total of 18 obstacles, but with the onus on keeping things natural, “The special feature: the elements lie in unprepared terrain …including ramps, rails, bridges, pillows and pale jams made of wood and covered naturally with snow,” a resort statement explains.