Snow report Chamonix, 11/23/2017

Snow condition

Last week, above 2000m, Chamonix received a substantial amount of fresh snowfall. This accumulated specifically in Northern aspect couloirs and allowed for some great skiing for those who were prepared to work for it. Particularly from Vallorcine towards the Swiss border. 50-80cm's of windblown snow arrived on Monday 13th and is still very good to ski today, providing you're motivated enough to reach the snow line.

Snow quality

The snow in northern aspects is cold, soft and very stable. Southern aspects are predictably lacking in snow given the warm temperatures these past few days but still skis well as long as you keep an eye out for rocks. You can find sun crust in places so it's best to stick to northern aspects. Look for couloirs that are protected by ridge lines, for example Pointe de la Terrasse north east couloir, and the Bel Oiseau couloirs.

I haven't seen any avalanche activity in the region and as far as I'm aware there hasn't been any incidents. Sluff in the couloirs poses the main threat.

Overall impression

Having skied a few times these past few days, the highlights have been Pointe de la Terrasse north east couloir and Bel Oiseau. For each line you must walk on foot through forest to reach the snow line and start ski touring. I'd recommend looking for similar aspect lines that are above 2000m. Although it now looks like there is more snowfall in the forecast this weekend so let's see what that brings and I'll update you soon.