Garmisch-Partenkirchen Snow Conditions Overview
Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Bavaria, Germany sits at 2,720m (8,924ft) elevation and averages 374cm of annual snowfall based on 10 years of historical data (2015-2025). During the ski season, Garmisch-Partenkirchen receives approximately 328cm of snow. The best month for powder is January, averaging 74.5cm of snowfall with a 42% powder probability. The highest chance of fresh powder (15cm+ in any given week) occurs in January and December at 42%.
- Annual Snowfall
- 374cm
- Elevation
- 2,720m
- Best Month
- January
- Powder Probability
- 42%
Snowfall data sourced from ERA5 reanalysis via Open-Meteo Historical Weather API (2015-2025).
Check Garmisch-Partenkirchen snow forecast for your dates
Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data
About Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Garmisch-Partenkirchen snowfall statistics based on 10 years of historical data. See average annual snowfall, best months to ski, and powder probability to help you plan your trip.
Snow & Weather Conditions
We use 10 years of historical data to help you plan — not a live snow report.
The Bavarian Alps receive regular snowfall from northern Alpine weather systems. While less prolific than the Austrian or Swiss Alps, reliable snowmaking and cold temperatures ensure consistent conditions. Altitude is a key advantage here: the higher you go, the colder and drier conditions become, resulting in dependable accumulations and a snowpack that resists deterioration well into spring. Season-long totals generally land between 6 and 10 metres, translating to a robust mid-winter base well above 2 metres.
Best Time to Ski
The best time to ski at Garmisch-Partenkirchen is January and December, with 74.5cm average snowfall and 42% powder probability. Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data from PowderDays. Season runs from December to mid-April. January and February are the most reliable months for natural snow. Review PowderDays' long-range snowfall records to choose travel dates backed by a decade of observations.
Powder Probability by Month
Chance of 15cm+ fresh snow in any given week (10 years of data):
- Nov35%
- Dec42%
- Jan42%
- Feb26%
- Mar29%
- Apr27%
10-Year Snow History
| Month | Avg Snowfall (cm) | Record High | Record Low | Powder Probability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov | 51.0 | 115.6 | 7.6 | 35% |
| Dec | 61.4 | 127.0 | 5.7 | 42% |
| Jan | 74.5 | 152.7 | 32.8 | 42% |
| Feb | 50.1 | 90.9 | 18.1 | 26% |
| Mar | 51.5 | 72.0 | 4.0 | 29% |
| Apr | 39.5 | 77.4 | 2.1 | 27% |
What Makes It Special
Germany's highest peak, the Zugspitze, provides glacier skiing. Lower resorts offer well-groomed slopes, gentle terrain, and accessible backcountry touring. Traditional Bavarian culture shines — beer halls, pretzels, gemütlichkeit, and a family-friendly atmosphere with excellent infrastructure.
The Zugspitze at 2,962 metres is Germany's highest peak and home to the country's highest ski area. Garmisch-Partenkirchen hosted the 1936 Winter Olympics and remains a regular stop on the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup circuit, hosting the famous Kandahar downhill course.
Data Sources & Methodology
All snowfall statistics for Garmisch-Partenkirchen are based on 10 years of historical data (2015-2025) from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, which provides ERA5 reanalysis data from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). Daily snowfall totals are queried at Garmisch-Partenkirchen's coordinates (47.44, 11.07) and 2,720m elevation, then aggregated into monthly averages, record highs/lows, and powder probability scores. Powder probability represents the chance of receiving 15cm or more of fresh snow in any given week during that month.