Here is a review of the situation and snow conditions in the Chamonix Valley from last week, before the long weekend break.
Be careful of the risk of avalanches in high mountains and the risk of unscrewing while hiking. Adapt your outings to the conditions.
An overview of the conditions at the end of 7 May 2024:
- the rain and snow limit was at the Conscrits refuge all day on 6 May. On 7 May, 15 cm of snow fell.
- at the Grands Mulets refuge on 6 & 7 May, 50 cm of snow fell.
- at the Cosmiques refuge on 6 & 7 May, 45/50 cm of snow fell then the sun came out late on the 7 May
Things to consider before heading into the mountains.
The Trois Monts route to the summit of the Mont-Blanc. On this route, the snow cover is continuous at all time of the year. This is not a hiking route. It is an alpinisme route.
In summer, hiking routes go up to 1700-2000m depending on the sector and orientations! South facing areas allow for the higher hiking limit. In the spring, access to hiking routes is limited by the snow that does still falls at these altitudes but the base continues to melt.
At the moment, most of the classic hikes (lakes, Grands Balcons, refuge access) are still not passable. Here you will find a list of ideas for walks to enjoy the beautiful panoramas of the next few days.
Be careful and give us your feedback!!
La Chamoniarde - Office de Haute Montagne in Chamonix
