Zermatt Snowfall Data & Powder Probability

Valais, Switzerland

3,883m / 12,740ftEuropePeak: Dec – Mar

Zermatt Snow Conditions Overview

Zermatt in Valais, Switzerland sits at 3,883m (12,740ft) elevation and averages 650cm of annual snowfall based on 10 years of historical data (2015-2025). During the ski season, Zermatt receives approximately 460cm of snow. The best month for powder is November, averaging 90.7cm of snowfall with a 40% powder probability. The highest chance of fresh powder (15cm+ in any given week) occurs in December and March at 46%.

Annual Snowfall
650cm
Elevation
3,883m
Best Month
November
Powder Probability
46%

Snowfall data sourced from ERA5 reanalysis via Open-Meteo Historical Weather API (2015-2025).

Check Zermatt snow forecast for your dates

Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data

About Zermatt

Zermatt 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.

Swiss resorts benefit from high-altitude glacier terrain and reliable snowfall. The combination of altitude and north-facing slopes preserves snow quality throughout the season. The rarefied atmosphere at this elevation keeps ambient temperatures far below the freezing mark for months on end, ensuring a stable base that just keeps growing. Even modest weather disturbances tend to deposit surprisingly fine, low-moisture crystals. Cumulative seasonal totals routinely top 8-12 metres, packing down into a base layer 3-4 metres deep by mid-winter.

Best Time to Ski

The best time to ski at Zermatt is December and March, with 77.8cm average snowfall and 46% powder probability. Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data from PowderDays. Season runs from late November to late April, with glacier skiing extending into summer. February and March are peak months for fresh snow. PowderDays' historical tool lets you compare precipitation patterns and find the best travel windows.

Powder Probability by Month

Chance of 15cm+ fresh snow in any given week (10 years of data):

  • Nov40%
  • Dec46%
  • Jan38%
  • Feb31%
  • Mar44%
  • Apr35%

10-Year Snow History

Monthly average snowfall, record high and low, and powder probability for Zermatt based on 10 years of historical data
MonthAvg Snowfall (cm)Record HighRecord LowPowder Probability
Nov90.7217.95.440%
Dec77.8124.221.846%
Jan79.4288.322.138%
Feb50.7120.89.131%
Mar78.8220.617.044%
Apr82.5178.226.135%

What Makes It Special

Dramatic glacier descents, perfectly groomed trails, and challenging off-piste routes amid some of the most photogenic mountain scenery on earth. Many Swiss resorts offer year-round glacier skiing. Swiss precision meets mountain tradition — expect immaculately groomed pistes, panoramic mountain restaurants, fondue, and a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere.

Switzerland pioneered mountain tourism in the 19th century. St. Moritz hosted the Winter Olympics twice (1928 and 1948) and is credited with inventing winter alpine tourism when hotelier Johannes Badrutt wagered with British summer guests in 1864 that they would enjoy the Engadin in winter. Zermatt offers the highest lift-served skiing in Europe at 3,883 metres.

Swiss Tourism / International Olympic Committee

Data Sources & Methodology

All snowfall statistics for Zermatt 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 Zermatt's coordinates (46.02, 7.75) and 3,883m 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.

View printable snow report

Frequently Asked Questions About Zermatt

What is the average annual snowfall at Zermatt?
Seasonal snow totals at Zermatt generally measure 6-12 metres, though individual winters can exceed that. Cumulative seasonal totals routinely top 8-12 metres, packing down into a base layer 3-4 metres deep by mid-winter. Dig into PowderDays' long-term weather database for a granular look at historical snowfall at Zermatt.
Which month has the most snow at Zermatt?
January and February are generally the best months to ski at Zermatt, as persistent cold fronts replenish the snowpack while frigid overnight lows maintain excellent surface texture. Season runs from late November to late April, with glacier skiing extending into summer. February and March are peak months for fresh snow. PowderDays' precipitation charts reveal which weeks have historically delivered the most fresh snow.
What is the snow like at Zermatt?
Swiss resorts benefit from high-altitude glacier terrain and reliable snowfall. The combination of altitude and north-facing slopes preserves snow quality throughout the season. Thanks to an elevation of 3,883m (12,740ft), Zermatt experiences sustained Arctic-grade cold that strips moisture from falling snow, leaving only feathery crystals underfoot.
Is Zermatt suitable for novice skiers?
Zermatt caters to skiers of every standard, from first-timers to seasoned experts. Dramatic glacier descents, perfectly groomed trails, and challenging off-piste routes amid some of the most photogenic mountain scenery on earth. Many Swiss resorts offer year-round glacier skiing. New skiers are well catered for with wide, low-gradient runs and on-mountain ski schools, while accomplished riders can seek out wind-buffed pillow lines, cliff bands, and high-alpine traverses.
How high is Zermatt?
At 3,883m (12,740ft) in Valais, Switzerland, Zermatt benefits from its elevation. The summit's rarified air and persistent frost create ideal conditions for a deep, season-long accumulation of dry snow.