December – April

Chamonix
in Winter

Some of the most challenging and rewarding skiing in the world — off-piste, glacier runs, and powder fields that draw experts from everywhere.

Ski Season

Skiing at
Chamonix

Chamonix is not your average ski resort. While it has 170+ marked runs across multiple ski areas, its true calling is its extraordinary off-piste terrain — vast glaciers, steep couloirs, and powder fields that make it a magnet for advanced and expert skiers.

Les Grands Montets

Expert 3,275m Top

The jewel of Chamonix skiing. Steep north-facing slopes hold powder longer than anywhere else in the valley. The Point de Vue and Pylônes runs are legendary among advanced skiers. Off-piste access is exceptional.

Brévent–Flégère

All Levels 2,525m Top

Linked ski areas on the south-facing side of the valley with unbeatable Mont Blanc views. Good variety of intermediate and advanced runs, plus the Chamonix town ski connection at Planpraz.

Les Houches

Beginner–Inter 1,900m Top

The most accessible ski area in the valley, with gentler wooded runs ideal for beginners and families. Home to the famous Kandahar World Cup downhill course. Often less crowded than the main areas.

Vallée Blanche glacier ski descent Chamonix

Bucket List

The Vallée
Blanche

The Vallée Blanche is the most famous off-piste ski run in the world. Starting from the Aiguille du Midi summit at 3,842m, it descends 24km across glaciers and through seracs back to Chamonix at 1,035m — a vertical drop of over 2,800 metres.

The route crosses the Mer de Glace glacier and requires crampons for the infamous arête ridge at the start. A certified mountain guide is essential — crevasses are real and conditions change rapidly. But the experience is unlike anything else on skis.

24km
Total Distance
2,807m
Vertical Drop
3,842m
Start Altitude
4–5h
Duration

Winter FAQs

Your Winter
Questions Answered

When is the ski season in Chamonix?
The ski season typically runs from mid-December to mid-April. January and February usually have the best snow conditions. Les Grands Montets often stays open into late April. The Aiguille du Midi and Vallée Blanche operate year-round when conditions allow.
What is the Vallée Blanche?
The Vallée Blanche is a 24km off-piste glacier descent from the Aiguille du Midi (3,842m) to Chamonix (1,035m). It's the longest off-piste run in the Alps and one of the most iconic ski experiences in the world. A mountain guide is strongly recommended due to crevasse risk on the glacier. Most people ski it in 4–5 hours with a guide group.
Is Chamonix good for beginner skiers?
Chamonix is primarily an intermediate-to-expert resort. Les Houches has the most beginner-friendly terrain. True beginners may find nearby Megève or Les Contamines more suitable for learning the basics, before returning to tackle Chamonix's more challenging slopes.
How much does a ski pass cost in Chamonix?
A Chamonix Le Pass covering all valley ski areas costs approximately €65–75 per day or €320–380 for 6 days. The Mont Blanc Unlimited pass also covers Courmayeur (Italy) and Verbier (Switzerland) and costs around €420–460 for 6 days. Multi-day passes offer significantly better value.
What is après-ski like in Chamonix?
Chamonix has one of the best après-ski scenes in the Alps. The main pedestrian zone in town has dozens of bars, restaurants, and clubs. MBC (Micro Brasserie de Chamonix) is a local institution for craft beer. Elevation 1904 and Chambre Neuf are popular for live music and dancing. The scene is lively without being overwhelming.