Despite growing up in a snowy region, last year I finally tried fat biking on the snow for the first time! My dad found a guided tour in a ski resort near home, so we gave it a try. The 2.5 km trail is made in a golf course which is obviously not in use during winter. There are some nice ups and downs on the trail to pump up your legs a bit.

We took a quick break at a lodge halfway where the guide served us hot drinks and shared how he maintained the trail. If it snows in the day before of the tour, he needs to clear snow from the trail with a snow blower for hours in the early morning before customers arrive. Sometime he even goes around 2-3 times! Listening to his efforts made us appreciate the smooth cycling more on the way back.

I totally loved cycling on the snow feeling the chilly air under such clear sky. The last half of the trail was pretty much down hill. Here you could go speed up if you are brave enough! After finishing the tour, don't forget to refresh yourself in Onsen (hot spring) at the ski resort before going home. It's so good.

Fat Bike Tour at Northern Arc Resort

• Reservation required: Tel.0157-56-2131

• Open from late December to March

• Guide's website: https://heroespark.info/

• Access: 15 min from Kitami by car. Local bus available from Kitami Station.

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