Season Dates in Chamonix

The ski season in Chamonix typically runs from mid-December to mid-April. The whole resort is set to open on 20 December 2025. Last lifts close for the season on 3 May 2026 (normally at Grands Montets).

The best time to come depends on what you like to do on holiday, and what's happening with the weather.

Late February is probably the sweet spot for most people. The snow base is normally well-established by then, and temperatures are starting to rise.

The downside is that most of February is half-term for someone, so the slopes tend to be busiest then. 

Skiing in Chamonix in November

Can you ski in November? It all depends on the weather. It's often still too warm.

If there's been exceptional snow fall, you may be able to ski Grands Montets towards the end of the month - but only at the weekends.

If you’re prepared to put in the leg work, there’s nothing to stop you going into the mountains at any time of course. But you'll normally need to skin up on touring skis or a splitboard.

Late-season skiing in Chamonix

Snow tends to stick around longest at Grands Montets because it's high and north-facing, so you might want to base yourself up that end of the valley if you're coming for some late-season skiing.

If off-piste is your thing, then it's technically possible to access good snow right into May, thanks to the Aiguille du Midi cable car (3,842m). As always, we'd recommend you hire a guide to help you find the sweetest (and safest) spots.

When the lifts are open in Chamonix's main ski areas

Ski the Vallée Blanche and other high mountain routes

It's worth remembering that strong winds, dangerous snow conditions and other adverse weather can affect when the lifts run. If you're in resort, make sure you check our live lift status page for up-to-date information on lift closures. 

When the beginner areas open and close

*As these areas are at low altitude the opening and closing dates are subject to snow conditions.

Fewer on-mountain lifts are open in summer in Chamonix, but there's still fantastic mountain access for hikers, bikers and selfie-takers!

It's worth remembering that adverse weather can affect when the lifts run. If you're in resort, make sure you check our live lift status page for up-to-date information on lift closures.