Chamonix Snow Report & Forecast

What's New in Chamonix This Winter?

There are some significant developments to look forward to across the Chamonix valley this winter, with the biggest changes taking place at the Grands Montets and Les Houches.

One of the most anticipated projects is the redevelopment of the Grands Montets ski area, following the fire that destroyed its cable car infrastructure in 2018. The first stage of the new lift system is scheduled to open during December 2026, with a modern ten-person gondola connecting Argentière to the Lognan plateau at 1,972 metres. The new stations have been designed by the Renzo Piano Building Workshop, with striking glass structures inspired by natural pyrite crystals.

At Lognan, visitors can also look forward to new facilities, including a beginner skiing area, refreshments and improved visitor amenities. The second stage of the redevelopment, restoring lift access from Lognan to the summit of the Grands Montets at 3,275 metres, is planned for winter 2027/28, so the summit lift will not be reopening this season.

Over in Les Houches, the Prarion gondola is receiving new panoramic cabins, offering improved comfort and views across the Mont Blanc massif. The historic Bellevue cable car is also celebrating its 90th anniversary this December, marking nine decades since it first opened on Christmas Day in 1936.

There are changes at Flégère too, where visitor facilities have been undergoing improvements, including work on the public toilets and picnic room. The area is also marking 70 years since its original cable car opened, with a permanent exhibition planned at the upper station to celebrate its history.

Outlook & What's On

The first few weeks of December will be all about getting the ski season underway. With the Grands Montets expected to open first, followed by Brévent-Flégère, Balme and Les Houches, the number of available pistes should increase as conditions permit. The weather over the coming weeks will play an important part in how quickly the ski areas can open, particularly at lower elevations.

Away from the pistes, December promises a festive atmosphere throughout the valley. Chamonix's Christmas Village is scheduled to run from 16 December to 3 January, moving to Place du Mont-Blanc this winter. Visitors can look forward to wooden chalets selling local crafts and seasonal treats, alongside an outdoor ice rink. The market is scheduled to open daily from 11:30 to 19:00, with late openings planned for 19 and 26 December.

This December also marks the 90th anniversary of the Bellevue cable car in Les Houches. To celebrate, a free public talk by mountain transport historian Pierre-Louis Roy is planned for Tuesday 22 December, exploring the remarkable history of the lift and its importance to the development of skiing in the valley.

Looking further ahead, Chamonix is also preparing for the return of the Kandahar Alpine Ski World Cup on 30 January 2027. The men's slalom is scheduled to take place on the famous Verte des Houches, bringing some of the world's leading ski racers back to the valley.

Getting Ready for the Ski Season

If you're heading to Chamonix in the coming weeks, now is a good time to get the final details of your trip organised. Whether it's arranging airport transfers, booking ski hire and lessons, or reserving a table at your favourite mountain restaurant, a little preparation can make those first days on the slopes much easier.

Unlike some Alpine resorts, Chamonix's main ski areas are spread along the valley, so it's worth planning how you'll travel between them. The Mont-Blanc Express train and local buses provide useful connections between the villages, although timetables and access arrangements should be checked before travelling.

During the opening weeks, keep an eye on the latest lift and piste information, particularly if you're hoping to visit several ski areas during your stay.

Snow Takeaway

The wait is nearly over, and Chamonix is getting ready for another winter beneath Mont Blanc. With the Grands Montets expected to lead the way, the first stage of its major redevelopment nearing completion and new improvements across Les Houches and Flégère, there's plenty to look forward to this season.

As always at this time of year, the best early-season skiing is likely to be found at higher elevations, with further terrain opening as conditions allow. The different opening dates across the valley make it particularly important to check which areas are operating before heading out.

We'll be back with our regular weekly reports to follow the snow and help you make the most of the winter ahead.

Scroll down to see live forecasts, lift status, links to webcams and above for real time photos from Chamonix. We will be updating this snow report page every Wednesday so check back in with us next week to see how the pistes are doing and what you can expect from the snow forecast for the next seven days.

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