Chamonix Insider's Guide
Expert insights and local tips from Chamonix instructors who ski here every day.
Ski Area Guides
Brévent-Flégère
The most accessible and forgiving terrain in Chamonix. South-facing slopes mean sun all day and softer snow.
Instructor Tips
- → Start early at Planpraz for fresh corduroy before crowds arrive
- → Tree line skiing offers protection on stormy days
- → La Floria blue run is perfect for building confidence
- → Mont Blanc views are unbeatable from the summit
⏰ Best Time
Morning (9-11am) for groomed runs, afternoon for sun
⚠️ Avoid
Late afternoon - snow gets heavy and slushy
🤫 Local Secret
Cornu bowl between Brévent and Flégère - quiet intermediate terrain
Grands Montets
The most challenging ski area in Chamonix. High altitude, steep terrain, and legendary off-piste.
Instructor Tips
- → Check avalanche bulletin - this is serious terrain
- → Hire a guide for off-piste - crevasses and cliffs everywhere
- → Point de Vue black run is a must-ski for experts
- → Get the first tram up for untracked powder
⏰ Best Time
Early morning before wind picks up (8-10am)
⚠️ Avoid
Afternoons get icy and windy at high altitude
🤫 Local Secret
Combe de la Pendant - advanced off-piste with stunning views
Le Tour - Balme
Quiet, sunny slopes with a Swiss vibe. Less crowded than other areas.
Instructor Tips
- → Cross to Vallorcine (Switzerland) for lunch and different terrain
- → Wide open greens perfect for complete beginners
- → North facing keeps snow quality excellent all season
- → Often open when lower areas are closed due to snow
⏰ Best Time
All day - consistent conditions
⚠️ Avoid
Can be windy at the top - check weather
🤫 Local Secret
Vallorcine Swiss side - empty slopes and great fondue
Les Houches
Family resort with extensive tree-lined slopes. Home of the Kandahar World Cup run.
Instructor Tips
- → Best tree skiing in Chamonix valley
- → Green runs at Prarion perfect for first-timers
- → Kandahar black is a genuine challenge even for experts
- → Less crowded than other Chamonix areas
⏰ Best Time
Morning for groomed, late afternoon for tree runs
⚠️ Avoid
Low altitude means spring snow gets slushy early
🤫 Local Secret
Houches Nord sector - locals only, rarely crowded
Essential Knowledge
S Safety
- Always check the avalanche bulletin before skiing off-piste
- Carry avalanche safety equipment (beacon, shovel, probe) off-piste
- Hire a mountain guide for off-piste - essential in Chamonix
- Weather changes quickly - bring layers and check forecasts
- Altitude affects everyone - hydrate and take breaks
T Timing
- First lifts (8:30-9am) = fresh grooming and empty slopes
- Lunch (12-1:30pm) = shorter lift lines, crowded restaurants
- Early afternoon (2-3pm) = best snow conditions in spring
- Last hour (4-5pm) = avoid unless you love moguls and ice
- Weekends busier than weekdays - plan accordingly
L Local Knowledge
- Mont Blanc Unlimited pass = free buses between areas
- Most restaurants only accept cash - ATMs in valley
- Ski patrol speaks English - don't hesitate to ask for help
- Pisteurs close runs early if conditions deteriorate
- Save energy - Chamonix altitude is tiring
S Snow Conditions
- South-facing slopes (Brévent) = sun but afternoon slush
- North-facing slopes (Balme, Grands Montets) = powder stays longer
- Tree runs best visibility in storms
- Spring skiing best between 10am-2pm before it gets slushy
- January-February = deepest snow, coldest temps
When to Visit
December - Early January
Book lessons early, lower elevations better, avoid Christmas week
Mid-January - February
All areas open, powder days common, dress very warm
March - April
Ski mornings before snow gets heavy, perfect for intermediates
May
Grands Montets only, early morning essential, off-piste touring
⛷️ Pro Tips from Skibex Instructors
Tom, 15 years local: "Chamonix isn't like other resorts. The terrain is serious, the altitude is high, and conditions change fast. Don't be a hero - take a lesson or hire a guide, especially your first days here."
Sophie, UIAGM guide: "Off-piste in Chamonix means glaciers, crevasses, and avalanche terrain. Never go alone, always have proper equipment, and check the bulletin. The mountain doesn't forgive mistakes."
Marc, ski school director: "Start at Brévent if you're intermediate or below. Build confidence there before attempting Grands Montets. And remember - skiing in Chamonix at altitude is exhausting. Pace yourself!"
Emergency Contacts
- 📞 Mountain Rescue (PGHM): +33 4 50 53 16 89
- 📞 General Emergency: 112
- 🏥 Chamonix Hospital: +33 4 50 53 04 84
- 📱 Avalanche Bulletin: data-avalanche.org
Ski with Local Experts
Learn from instructors who know every run, every condition, and every secret spot in Chamonix.