Winter is gradually settling over the Chamonix valley and the high mountains are beginning to look properly wintry. Snow has continued to build at altitude and the forecast over the coming days is hinting at a little more to come. It is still early season here, but for anyone considering a December visit, the upper slopes are starting to offer some encouraging signs.
Snow & Weather Summary
Recent data shows that the upper mountain snow depth is sitting at around 140 centimetres. Coverage at valley level remains very limited, which is normal for this stage of the season in Chamonix. A small top up of fresh snow is expected this week, mostly falling on the higher slopes, and temperatures are set to remain cold at altitude. This should help preserve the existing snow and slowly build the base across the upper ski areas.
On the ground this means that the best skiing options are found higher up above the valley floor. Prepared pistes on the upper mountains should ski reasonably well, especially in the mornings when overnight freezing firms up the surface. Lower slopes will continue to rely heavily on artificial snow and may not offer consistent coverage yet, so it is best to plan to stay high for now.
