Arctic Lines Episode 13: Stranded in powder heaven

Freeriding is all about finding good snow. In the Arctic Circle, this is not always easy. Crampons and ice axes have been regular tools during the first season of Arctic Lines.

On the new episode this is about to change when the biggest snowstorm of the year hits northern Norway. It had been over 2 years since I’ve experienced Japan-like powder snow and this was an opportunity not to miss out.
Together with my friend Miikka Hast And we parked our homes in the middle of Tamok valley and went to explore an area filled with meltwater also known as Tamok Pipes.

Enjoy!

Tamok pipes are big streams that come down the mountain in the summer time. Many mountains in the world have these type of formations. However, in Tamok the amount of these pipes is quite outstanding. There is many choose from. Most are located in a lower section of Blåbærfjellet. Riding these pipes is something I could do for the rest of my life. On a good powder day there is no better feeling for snowboarding than riding fast and making sweet turns on a natural transitions.

Safety

The biggest pipes are the most appealing but these are also avalanche paths so you must be sure to know the snow conditions above the pipes to be able to go ride those. Also when attempting to enjoy some of the steeper pipes the top part gets a bit of wind loading and could have potential slab. Approaching the top of these pipes from a safe angle is a good idea. This way you can get above the slab and check the snow.

How to find interesting terrain in lower part of the mountain

The best way to find terrain such as Tamok Pipes is to learn how to use topographic map. Combining this with application such as FATMAP and integrating Suunto watch will help you to identify more specific features and routes for the location you are about to go to. Also having a good local knowledge will get you there but it’s good to have a sense of understanding where you are when making a plan to have fun.

GEAR USED DURING THE ADVENTURE