Snow report Chamonix, 05/17/2014

Snow condition

The couloirs generally look quite good, especially the trophy lines on Tacul. Many north faces are blown off. West of Mont Blanc it looked a bit better from the car. Due to the mediocre winter there is less snow than usual. From just after the Salle à Manger, it's now a case of carrying skis up to the train.

Snow quality

In terms of snow, everything was there: some powder, crushed snow, firn and ice. Powder was still to be found in areas protected from the wind and sun. The wind was particularly strong on the north side - until the next snowfall, it is probably better to opt for firn.

The LLB from Meteofrance, which is currently only published weekly, had issued a 3. Due to the fresh snow and strong winds, this was probably appropriate at high altitudes (e.g. north side of Tacul). But we didn't go there. It was OK for us. Otherwise, typical spring conditions prevail with an increase in avalanche danger as the day progresses. Watch out for falling rocks on the moraines!

Overall impression

It was nice to be in Chamonix again. Compared to the last two years, the conditions are a little less good for the time of year, but there's still enough to let off steam if you're motivated.