Snow report Montafon, 12/30/2016

Snow condition

Winter has still not started in the Montafon. On the south side, there is no base at all up to well over 2,000 m. On the north side, it starts at around 2,200 m. A continuous snow cover begins here. Individual blown-in areas or gullies above 2,300 m could probably be skied on. But in the Montafon, the end is already reached at around 2,600 m, unless you accept longer approaches. I can't judge what it looks like in the Silvretta. I suspect that there will be running sections.

Snow quality

Depending on the location and exposure, it can be very settled powder, wind-broken hardpack or hardpack. On the south side, snow becomes significantly heavier during the day up to at least 2,400 m. Almost spring conditions. I only took a closer look at the snow quality in off-piste terrain close to the pistes.

The situation is certainly still favorable. On Tuesday this week, clear snow plumes were visible above 2,500 m. Small-scale accumulations of drift snow could still be dangerous spots. However, stones and the danger of falling are still prominent. The next snow will fall on hardened areas (including accumulating converted snow) or on areas with surface frost or accumulating converted snow. These are future danger spots, especially on the north side above 2,200 m.

Overall impression

At the moment, I'm personally on the artificial snow slopes. Various alpine activities can certainly also be undertaken in this situation. I save myself the risk of injury. The photos should give you a few impressions. Alternative outdoor activities are still possible. Due to an inversion, it is significantly milder in the mountains than in the valley.