Snow report Verbier, 01/01/2019

Snow condition

We can ski up to 1100m in the shady Vallon d'en Van valley. The snow down here is rather pimple-hard and 'walkable', which is why we opt for the south-east descent to Les Marécottes. Up at 2500, the wind was raging. Unfortunately, we couldn't sniff out any more powder. In Marécottes, the valley run is closed (again).

Snow quality

Icy and frozen over in the shady valley, wind-blown and crushed-ice at the top. Crampons would have been nice on the ascent from 2000... On the descent to Marécottes in Couli, hard but very grippy snow. Sunlit slopes firnig-nice.

On the ascent, we pass a large avalanche that came down from large, steep north-facing slopes, but has probably been there for 6 days, as it is over-frozen and completely compacted. The SLF indicates a 2. Otherwise everything is safe. Ascent on the second day on northwest slopes possible without any problems.

Overall impression

Solitude that you rarely find in the Alps - fondue in the winter room - good company - minimal light pollution - starry skies dotted with dairy roads - and then on New Year's Day a couloir that is worthwhile and not much used (more climbing), directly into the ski area. A good start to 2019 all round!