The Ultimate Powder Paradise

I find myself deep in the trees, thigh-deep in powder, struggling through the snow. Instead of riding my board, I’m carrying it, muttering about taking the wrong line. Meanwhile, just 20 feet below, Chris Laurent from Paris has his own dilemma.

“I can’t find my ski,” he exclaims, both laughing and swearing as he digs through a growing mound of fresh snow.

These are the challenges that skiers and snowboarders dream of—and pay to experience.

Welcome to Niseko, the powder capital of Asia, and some say, the world.

Japan has long been revered as a mecca for powder skiing. However, in recent years, warming winters, declining snowfall, and a shrinking number of local skiers and snowboarders have threatened its once-thriving resorts.

But this season brought renewed excitement. With the La Niña weather pattern—a period of cooler temperatures—returning, industry insiders anticipated massive snowfalls reminiscent of Niseko’s legendary past. Their hopes were justified. Early in the season, Niseko shattered a 68-year-old record for December snowfall.

After a brief lull in January, February saw an influx of Siberian cold fronts sweeping across the Sea of Japan, dumping fresh powder on Hokkaido’s most famous ski town.

Jia-Rong Chen, a former tech employee from Tokyo, came to Niseko for the season and experienced the town’s signature snowfall firsthand.

“It snows a lot—truly the best quality snow in Japan. Early in the season, I went up every day. But by mid-season, I was almost spoiled. I’d had enough powder already,” he admits.

While snowfall may fluctuate throughout the season, Niseko remains consistent compared to other resorts. Even as Japan’s aging population and declining ski culture have led to hundreds of resort closures, Niseko continues to thrive.

Unlike other struggling resorts, Niseko has seen a surge in foreign visitors and luxury developments. High-end hotels like Setsu Niseko—winner of the World’s Best New Ski Hotel at the 2023 World Ski Awards—and Muwa Niseko are setting new standards for hospitality. Michelin-starred Japanese chefs are also investing in the region, ensuring that Niseko remains not just a ski town but a high-end winter destination.

A key factor behind the area’s snow reliability is the local belief that Mount Yotei—a towering peak resembling Mount Fuji—is a “snow catcher,” ensuring consistent snowfall. Climatologists agree that Niseko’s geography makes it uniquely positioned to receive dry, light powder when Siberian cold fronts collide with the warm moisture of the Sea of Japan.

Despite its consistent snowfall, experts remain cautious about the long-term effects of climate change.

“December temperatures were below normal, but January was abnormally hot. La Niña is rapidly decaying,” says Professor Tomonori Sato, a meteorological researcher from Hokkaido University. “In my hometown of Niigata, the snow is very wet and heavy. But in Hokkaido, it remains dry and light—ideal for skiing.”

Hokkaido’s unique climate, surrounded by water, fuels the weather systems responsible for its legendary powder. While global warming remains a concern, most experts believe Niseko’s appeal will endure.

Before the pandemic, Niseko was often referred to as an “Aussie town,” with Australians making up about 50% of visitors. Today, that figure has dropped to just over 20%, but overall visitor numbers have surged, with more travelers coming from North America, Europe, and beyond.

“The biggest shift for us has been the rise of American visitors,” says Patrick Ohtani, COO of Luxe Nomad, which manages high-end properties across Asia. “In 2017, U.S. visitors accounted for only 619 guest nights. This year, we’ve booked 4,823 nights—an increase of 404%. Revenue from U.S. travelers has jumped by 130%.”

The introduction of the IKON pass, which grants skiers seven days of unrestricted access to Niseko United, has contributed to this growth. More American skiers, even those with access to world-class resorts back home, are now flying halfway around the globe to experience Niseko’s unparalleled powder.

A stroll through Hirafu, Niseko’s most upscale ski village, reveals just how much the town has transformed. Preening influencers snap selfies in luxury snowsuits, while others sip champagne in a Louis Vuitton-designed yurt. Michelin-starred food trucks serve dumplings, while upscale steakhouses charge $170 for premium cuts.

Heli-ski operators cater to affluent thrill-seekers, and luxury concierge services offer everything from private chef’s tables to exclusive snowmobile tours.

Gone are the days when Niseko was simply called the “Vale of the East” or the “St. Moritz of Japan.” Today, it’s a world-class destination in its own right.

“I’ve been in Niseko for 10 years, and I don’t think we’ve ever had a bad snow year,” says Ohtani. “We’re incredibly lucky—Siberian winds pick up moisture, hit a high-pressure system, and the snow just starts falling. Compared to other ski destinations, our altitude plays a major role.”

For now, Niseko remains bulletproof—an evolving, luxury-laden haven for powder seekers from across the globe. And as long as the snow keeps falling, the legend of Niseko will continue to grow.

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Elina Mäkinen, the first Finnish woman to complete the Ice Mile, is no stranger to the freezing waters of Finland. From plunging into icy lakes beneath the Northern Lights to immersing herself in sacred Arctic waters, Finland offers some of the world’s most unique and invigorating ice bathing experiences. Here, Mäkinen shares her top five spots for the ultimate ice plunge.

Why Ice Bathing is a Finnish Tradition

Ice bathing is a revered practice in Finland, where the rich sauna culture, now part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, has long been paired with icy dips for holistic health. The ritual of submerging the body in ice-cold water is not only a way to relax, but it also offers various health benefits, from relieving ailments to boosting energy and mental clarity.

Elina Mäkinen emphasizes that ice bathing is a deeply personal practice, not a competitive sport. “The ice hole is a place to learn about yourself and your reactions,” she says. “I only have the need to compete with myself.”

While the health benefits of ice bathing have gained popularity in recent years—especially during and after the Covid-19 pandemic—many people still practice it to wake up in the morning, improve sleep, or simply for self-discovery, much like yoga and meditation.

Mäkinen’s Top 5 Ice Bathing Spots in Finland

Here are Mäkinen’s top five Arctic locations to experience the thrill and peace of ice bathing in Finland’s pristine, snow-covered landscapes.

1. Best for Ice Bathing Under the Northern Lights: Särkitunturi Fell and Särkijärven Majat

Finnish Lapland, known for its minimal light pollution, is one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights. Särkitunturi, a small mountain in the area, is a favorite spot for Mäkinen, who begins her ice bathing season here. The small lakes atop the mountain freeze faster, providing a perfect spot to dip into the cold waters while surrounded by the northern sky’s mesmerizing light show.

“I’ve often swum here under the Northern Lights,” says Mäkinen. To reach Särkitunturi, it’s a 20-minute drive from Muonio, followed by a short hike. For an easygoing ice bathing experience, Mäkinen recommends staying at Särkijärven Majat, rustic lakeside cabins with a wood-fired sauna and ready-made ice holes.

2. Best Wilderness Retreat for Beginners: Isokenkäisten Klubi

Located near the Arctic Circle in Kuusamo, Isokenkäisten Klubi is a remote wilderness lodge that’s perfect for beginners. Set amidst dramatic scenery, including vast forests and waterfalls, the lodge offers both a traditional smoke sauna and a modern electric sauna. There’s also an ice hole for the full Finnish experience.

Mäkinen describes the lodge as “a fabulous log cottage in the middle of nowhere,” and notes that it’s featured in the documentary Cold, where she built a 10-meter-long practice pool for her Ice Mile swim. This lodge is part of Finland’s Sustainable Travel programme, making it an eco-friendly destination for ice bathers seeking a serene and restorative escape.

3. Best for Dips in Sacred Scenery: Jeris Arctic Sauna World

In northern Lapland, the Jeris Arctic Sauna World offers an unparalleled ice bathing experience. Situated on the shores of the sacred Lake Jerisjärvi, the site features a collection of saunas named after Finland’s traditional gods—Tapio, Ukko, Ilmatar, and Vellamo. The lake holds cultural significance for the indigenous Sámi people, adding a spiritual element to your ice bath.

“It’s the paradise of the north,” Mäkinen says, adding that the views of the Olos fells and the stunning sunsets make this one of the most beautiful places to take a plunge. After enjoying the saunas, guests can dip into a ready-made ice hole just a few steps away.

Jeris Arctic Sauna World is an ideal spot for experienced ice bathers, as it requires equipment like an ice saw to create the ice hole. However, Mäkinen assures that it’s well worth the effort, as the setting is both breathtaking and sacred.

4. Best for the Magical Lapland Feel: Lake Kilpisjärvi and Mount Saana

For those seeking a more remote and magical ice bathing experience, Mäkinen recommends Lake Kilpisjärvi and Mount Saana in the northernmost reaches of Finnish Lapland. Known for its beauty and serenity, this area is perfect for anyone wanting to escape into nature.

“I lived in Kilpisjärvi for three months,” Mäkinen recalls. “It’s a very communal place with only around 100 inhabitants, and it’s incredibly beautiful. If I could live anywhere, it would be here.”

The lake, with its crystal-clear waters and the towering Saana mountain in the background, is a breathtaking location for ice bathing. For those without their own ice-cutting equipment, the Kilpisjärvi Lapland Hotel offers a ready-made ice hole maintained with pumps. Mäkinen, however, prefers to create her own ice holes here, ensuring a unique and personal experience.

“While cutting an ice hole in the middle of the lake, always make sure to mark it properly and ensure it’s safe,” Mäkinen advises. She adds with a laugh that while she’s never met another ice swimmer in the area, ice fishermen often stop by to marvel at her large ice holes.

Conclusion

From the Northern Lights in Lapland to the sacred waters of Jerisjärvi, Finland offers some of the most breathtaking and tranquil settings for ice bathing. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced swimmer, these locations provide a unique way to connect with nature and experience the profound benefits of ice-cold immersion.

As Elina Mäkinen wisely says, “The ice hole is not just about the plunge; it’s about discovering yourself.” So, are you ready to take the plunge?

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When life gives you a snow day, why not make a snowman? That’s exactly what millions of residents across the Southern U.S. did on Friday, thanks to a rare winter storm that blanketed the region in snow.

A Rare Snowfall Across the South

For many, the surprise snowstorm provided a long-awaited opportunity to break out the mittens, snow pants, and sleds. As the snow accumulated in parks, streets, and backyards, people made the most of the situation—despite warnings of icy roads and mass school cancellations.

In Little Rock, Arkansas, Tyshae Sanders and her boyfriend, Terrell Bryant, set to work on an ambitious project: building an igloo in their front yard. Using a plastic bin to mold snow blocks, they aimed to create a 5-foot-tall structure by the end of the day. “Why couldn’t this happen when we were kids?” Bryant laughed, while Sanders eagerly hoped for even more snow. “I’m still wishing for a blizzard.”

Snow Brings Joy to Kids and Adults Alike

In southeast Atlanta, where 3 to 4 inches of snow had fallen by morning, residents took to the streets with sleds, boogie boards, or anything that could slide. Despite unplowed streets, many still ventured out cautiously, enjoying the winter wonderland.

Mikayla Johnson, 12, was thrilled by the snowfall, recalling that the last time the city saw significant snow was when she was just 4 years old. “We haven’t had snow since I was, like, 4—good snow, at least. So I was really happy,” Mikayla said.

Her father, Nate Johnson, added, “I thought, ‘I can’t believe all the hype was true!’” After years of forecasts promising snow that never materialized, the reality was a welcome surprise.

A Special Father-Son Moment

In Atlanta, fire captain Jason Hogan and his 17-year-old son, Jonas, took the opportunity to recreate a cherished memory. On January 10, 2011, exactly 14 years prior, a 3-year-old Jonas enjoyed his first snow with his father. The pair grabbed a snowboard and slid down a hill, an image Jason captured on his phone. That same photo resurfaced this winter, prompting them to recreate the moment—this time, with Jonas a little taller and the snow just as fun.

Making Memories in Tennessee

In Tennessee, Markus Eberl and his 3-year-old daughter, Lulu, embraced the rare snow day by visiting a local sledding hill. “It’s so rare to have a full day of snow here. So this is great,” said Eberl, a native of Germany who has lived in Nashville for 15 years. For Lulu, the joy wasn’t just in sledding—it was about building snowmen, snowballs, and snow angels. “She’s right now taken to making snowballs and snow angels,” said Eberl.

Meanwhile, in Louisville, Kentucky, Chris Steiner and his daughter Chloe made the most of the snow at Cherokee Park, a popular sledding destination. Despite the chilly temperatures, the park was filled with around 50 people, all enjoying the perfect sledding snow. “It’s great. Best sledding snow you can get right now,” Steiner said as he gave Chloe a ride down the hill.

Snow Day Side Hustles

Not everyone spent their snow day just playing. In Nashville, 14-year-olds Sydney Lasher and Zoe Russell saw the snowstorm as an opportunity to earn some extra cash. The duo posted on Facebook offering to shovel driveways and steps for neighbors, a job they had taken on the previous year. “We did this last year, and it was a lot of fun,” said Sydney. Last year, the pair earned about $500 from their shoveling business. “We kind of let the people decide how much to pay us,” Zoe added.

Embracing the Snow

Even those without sleds or snow shovels took a moment to enjoy the rare snowfall. Darnell Ramey, waiting at a bus stop, began making snowballs and encouraged others to join in. “This is a one-opportunity thing to get out and enjoy some of this snow that’s coming down,” he said, urging everyone to “run into it” rather than avoid it.

A Day to Remember

For many across the South, the winter storm turned an ordinary Friday into a day of fun and cherished memories. Whether building igloos, sledding down hills, or simply making snowballs, this rare snow day provided a much-needed break and a chance to enjoy the winter season.

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An Arctic cold front sweeping across the U.S. this weekend is triggering powerful lake-effect snowstorms in states like Pennsylvania and New York while bringing freezing temperatures as far south as the Gulf Coast.

Winter Alerts in Effect

Lake-effect snow warnings and winter weather alerts have been issued for parts of Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York, with some extending through Monday evening. These warnings highlight the severe impact of the cold air interacting with the warmer waters of the Great Lakes, leading to intense snowfall.

Heavy Snowfall Forecast

Communities along the Great Lakes, including Cleveland, Ohio, and Buffalo, New York, are bracing for significant snowfall. The heaviest accumulation is expected near Watertown, New York, with forecasts predicting 3 to 5 feet of snow. Other areas, such as Dunkirk, New York, could see over 3 feet of snow, while localized whiteout conditions will make travel extremely dangerous or impossible.

ABC News Illustration

Southern States Face Freezing Temperatures

The cold air mass is not limited to the northern states. Freeze alerts are in effect for over 13 million people across nine southern states, with temperatures dropping below freezing as far south as the Florida Panhandle.

Emergency Measures in New York

In response to the impending storm, New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency for nearly a dozen counties in western New York. Hazardous road conditions, travel disruptions, and widespread power outages are anticipated.

Erie County, home to Buffalo, is expected to be one of the hardest-hit areas. County Executive Mark Poloncarz urged residents to stay off the roads. “This is going to be a serious storm, especially in the southern parts of Erie County,” he said. Towns like Eden, Evans, and Hamburg could see up to 4 feet of snow, while Buffalo itself is forecasted to receive only a few inches.

Dangerous Travel Conditions

Driving in the affected regions will be treacherous, with whiteout conditions reducing visibility to near zero. Portions of Interstate 90 near the Pennsylvania border have already been closed due to unsafe conditions.

“We’re talking about conditions where you can’t see anything while driving,” Poloncarz warned. “If you don’t have to travel, stay home. It’s not worth the risk.”

ABC News Illustration

Impact on Sunday’s Buffalo Bills Game

Fans attending the Buffalo Bills’ Sunday night game should prepare for a challenging experience. Snowfall totals at the stadium could reach 20 to 30 inches by game time, with wind chills in the teens. The team is working to clear the snow, but accessing the stadium will still be difficult.

Poloncarz remained optimistic, emphasizing the region’s resilience. “Western New Yorkers know how to handle snow. We’ll get through this if we’re careful.”

Key Takeaways

Residents in the affected areas should stay informed, limit travel, and prepare for hazardous conditions. As the storm continues to develop, caution and preparedness will be essential to navigate the challenges ahead.

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Top picture credit: ABC News Illustration

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