Snow report Dolomites, 12/11/2020

Snow condition

Only a few centimetres of fresh snow have been added since Thursday. But there is an extraordinary amount of snow. Unfortunately, the ski slopes in Carezza are now being massively covered with snow, although it is unclear whether the lifts will even open this winter and even if they do, snow could still be cut in January if it is foreseeable that it is necessary. At the moment and for Christmas (the locals are still hoping for a lift opening), the natural snow would definitely be enough and resources (water, energy...) could be saved.

Snow quality

The snow is still super loose and fluffy. Yesterday there were a few hours of sunshine, today a few gaps in the clouds. This hasn't had any negative effects on the snow quality yet, not even in south-facing areas.

The avalanche danger is slowly decreasing. However, you have to bear in mind that the drift snow above the tree line is not always easy to recognize. Gullies and hollows must be avoided. But there is also enough snow on the ridges and in the forest to have fun.

Overall impression

With a few gaps in the clouds and at least more visibility than in the last few days, the snow is already easier to enjoy. I now also have an ascent track, which gives me a bit more energy for the descent, but there is one downer. I've often enjoyed countless descents in the same place with the help of the lift, of course. It really hurts that the lifts can't run. There used to be a simple 2-seater chairlift at this point. This summer, it was replaced by a new revolving gondola. Not ideal in Corona times, apart from the environmental destruction (mudflow in summer) caused during construction. It's still not nice to see a construction crane at 2300m against a gigantic mountain backdrop. We should all be happy with a little "less".