Snow report Zillertal, 04/24/2016

Snow condition

At lower altitudes from the Hochfügen parking lot, there is no off-piste skiing. But that doesn't matter, because there is a great base on the pistes. I was off-piste up to around 1850, without any problems or stone contact, but of course only north-facing. I was almost surprised how well it still went. In general, it feels like high winter at high altitudes. Landscape covered in deep snow - very beautiful.

Snow quality

I only started in the afternoon and was mainly driven by the tempting values from the weather station. The station showed clear minus values, but I could only partially confirm this on the mountain. Even in the immediate vicinity. Lower down when the sun came out, double-digit plus and only just below zero at high altitudes. The quality was accordingly. Especially for tomorrow. But still great to ride today. Already damp at lower altitudes but still good to ride here tomorrow with a lid. The last 300 vertical meters in the north-facing area protected absolutely top. There was still some powder inside. I skied down first at around 5 and to still find such good snow here is really good for the time of year. I'm sure it will be even better in the morning.

Can only provide a limited assessment. Drift snow was the problem. But due to the strong radiation today. Some brief blue skies and the milder temperatures should ease the situation quite quickly. Different with fresh snow, of course. It started to snow more heavily again in the evening. No significant snowfall during the day. The amount of fresh snow is considerable and sufficient for larger avalanches.

Overall impression

It was absolutely perfect for the time of year and I've never been completely alone in Hochfügen before. In the morning there were probably a handful of people out and about. Unfortunately only 2 short windows of sunshine and these only on the ascent. This is also worthwhile for an after-work tour.