Chamonix is now firmly in its spring phase, but the high mountain still looks impressive with a deep snowpack holding above the valley. The contrast is clear between the sun softened lower slopes and the more wintry feel up high, particularly around Grands Montets and the Aiguille du Midi. The town itself has a relaxed late season atmosphere, with quieter lifts and longer days making it a good time to explore the mountain.
Snow and Weather Summary
Snow depths are currently around 40 to 70 cm at resort level near 1000 metres, with between 180 and 260 cm across the upper slopes above 2500 metres. The highest terrain, particularly on the glacier and north facing aspects, continues to hold the most reliable and consistent snow. There has been very limited recent snowfall, with only a light dusting of a few centimetres at altitude over the past week.
Temperatures have ranged from minus 8 to minus 3 degrees on the upper mountain and between plus 3 and plus 11 degrees in the valley depending on sunshine. The freezing level has been sitting between 2300 and 2700 metres during the day before dropping overnight, which helps maintain surface quality higher up. Winds have generally been light, though occasionally moderate on exposed ridgelines.
Skiing conditions are best above 2000 metres where the snow remains firmer in the mornings and softens gradually through the afternoon. Higher areas such as Grands Montets and the Vallée Blanche are still offering very good snow, particularly on shaded aspects. Lower runs down into the valley become soft and heavier quite quickly once the sun is on them, so are best skied earlier in the day.
