Chamonix

French Alps, France · 3,842m (12,606ft) elevation

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Resort Details for Chamonix

  • Location: French Alps, France
  • Region: Europe
  • Elevation: 3,842m (12,606ft)
  • Coordinates: 45.92°N, 6.87°E

Snow & Weather Conditions at Chamonix

The French Alps receive substantial snowfall from Atlantic and Mediterranean storm systems. High-altitude resorts benefit from reliable natural snow, while purpose-built ski stations ensure slope-side convenience. At this extreme altitude, temperatures stay well below freezing for much of the season, preserving snow quality and enabling a long winter with deep, reliable snowpack. The high-alpine climate means precipitation often falls as dry, light powder even during milder storm cycles. Annual snowfall regularly exceeds 8–12 metres, building a deep, stable base that can reach 3–4 metres at peak season.

Best Time to Ski at Chamonix

The French Alps season runs from early December to late April. January and February provide the most reliable snowfall and coldest temperatures. For the highest probability of fresh powder at Chamonix, plan your visit during January and February when storm cycles are most frequent and temperatures keep the snowpack cold and dry. March can also deliver excellent conditions — the snowpack is often at its deepest, and you may find fewer crowds on the mountain. Use PowderDays' historical snowfall analysis tool to compare decade-long precipitation trends and pick the optimal dates for your trip.

What Makes Chamonix Special

France hosts some of the world's largest interconnected ski areas (Les 3 Vallées, Paradiski, Portes du Soleil), offering hundreds of kilometres of marked pistes and extensive off-piste options. French ski culture is synonymous with gastronomy — expect Michelin-quality mountain restaurants, fine wines, raclette, and a relaxed, social approach to après-ski.

Plan Your Trip to Chamonix

Use our snow analysis tool to find the best time to visit Chamonix

Analyze Historical Snow Data for Chamonix

Frequently Asked Questions About Chamonix

How much snow does Chamonix get per year?
Chamonix receives an average of 6–12 metres of snowfall annually, depending on the season. At this extreme altitude, temperatures stay well below freezing for much of the season, preserving snow quality and enabling a long winter with deep, reliable snowpack. The high-alpine climate means precipitation often falls as dry, light powder even during milder storm cycles. Use PowderDays to explore 10 years of historical precipitation data for Chamonix.
What is the best month to ski at Chamonix?
January and February are generally the best months to ski at Chamonix, as storm frequency peaks and cold temperatures preserve snow quality. The French Alps season runs from early December to late April. January and February provide the most reliable snowfall and coldest temperatures. Check PowderDays' historical snowfall charts to find the dates with the highest powder probability.
What is the snow like at Chamonix?
The French Alps receive substantial snowfall from Atlantic and Mediterranean storm systems. High-altitude resorts benefit from reliable natural snow, while purpose-built ski stations ensure slope-side convenience. At 3,842m (12,606ft) elevation, Chamonix benefits from cold temperatures that produce dry, light powder.
Is Chamonix good for beginners?
Chamonix offers terrain for all ability levels. France hosts some of the world's largest interconnected ski areas (Les 3 Vallées, Paradiski, Portes du Soleil), offering hundreds of kilometres of marked pistes and extensive off-piste options. Beginners will find designated learning areas and ski schools, while advanced skiers can explore more challenging runs and off-piste options.
What is the elevation of Chamonix?
Chamonix sits at 3,842m (12,606ft) elevation in French Alps, France. At this extreme altitude, temperatures stay well below freezing for much of the season, preserving snow quality and enabling a long winter with deep, reliable snowpack. The high-alpine climate means precipitation often falls as dry, light powder even during milder storm cycles.