Snow report Chamonix La Flégère, 01/16/2026

Snow condition

Ascent via Lac Blanc to Col du Belvédère can be done without problems, there is currently enough snow. On the other side, heading north, after the abseil from the Col into the Bérard valley, there is generally quite a bit of (still fresh) snow; only a stone band in the middle of the steep section is not covered in snow. You could bypass this section, but it is highly advisable to take the second abseil as well (photos). The descent through the forest to Le Buet can be done without any problems, even for snowboarders.

Snow quality

On the south side, you can feel the warm temperatures and sunshine. The snow has a crust and softens as the day progresses. The descent northwards into the Bérard valley still has some untracked, almost powdery terrain. Superb, surfy turns are still to be had here.

When abseiling into the north-facing couloir, you have to be a little careful, as after about 70 meters from the first belay, a ledge is exposed. After almost exactly 60 meters of abseiling you come to a second belay, with which you can bridge the rock band more or less easily (2x50 meter ropes may also work, then you would have to descend briefly in steep terrain to the second belay). From then on it's a pure pleasure descent.

Overall impression

Now that the snow is disappearing at breakneck speed and all the good runs seem to be gone, it's worth taking a detour to the northern slopes. The traverse from the Flégère area via the Col du Bélvère into the Bérard valley is the perfect tour to escape the crowds and get hold of a few (almost) untracked slopes. The abseiling points are easy to find; there is snow right up to the bar in Le Buet (it's worth having a hot chocolate in the bar while you wait for the train back to Chamonix). All in all, a successful day's skiing - but still only 3 stars. The snow conditions could be better, so that there are no more exposed stones in the couloir itself and you can get some fluffier powder.