Chamonix Snow Report: 27th December 2010

This time of year can be a bit hit and miss, and looking back at previous seasons especially 2006/2007 when it didn't even snow up high at all till 22nd December followed by rain on Christmas day. It's great to have conditions like these, we have had a really good firm base and great start to the season, and with the locals running out of fingers on one hand to count powder days so far, you can feel a good season is on its way! As we move in to yet another week of good snow, great conditions, and even more parties with New Year just around the corner, it's no wonder so many are at least trying to get through the airport delays and get their butts out here for some serious powder snow!

It seems like after the 06/07 season where everyone began to think that global warming really was kicking in and the very real possibility of no more snow in the Alps began to bring fear and the will to move to Canada to most that live in the valley. Now it seems that after 3 pretty good winters in a row and the prospect of a 4th maybe we are moving in to a pleasurable ice age and the return of the glaciers! Well that's what we are all hoping for anyway and looking back at the history of the glaciers in the Chamonix Museum will show you just how dramatic global warming has been, and even a slight return of the glaciers and cooling of this part of the world would be greatly appreciated by all who ski or snowboard this amazing part of the world!

For me, most good/epic powder days either start at Grand Montets or Flegere, just because I know exactly where the best stash is and that I can get to spots most don't know about, hitting those secret little wind lips or perfect powder drops. However hitting these two hills can come with a bit of a rush in the mornings, big queues, but all in all a positive atmosphere with plenty of coffee and tea flasks going around. If you prefer a more chilled start to your powder day, heading to the less visited hills of Brevent, Le Tour, or even Les Houches, or in-fact anywhere except Flegere, Grand Montets, or the Valle Blanche, will help get you some mellow pow. Employing the services of a local guide/ski or snowboard host will help get exactly what you want out of your stay, just tell them how you like to ride, how much you ride and what level you're at, and they will design the best experiences possible for you.

So after some great Christmas Eve, Christmas day and boxing day parties it's time to take a second of chill and sobriety in preparation for the big crazy throughout the entire valley which New Year's eve will inevitably bring. If you like powder, and you like parties, then I would make one of my highest recommendations being out here in the very near future!

Check out our Mountain Guide Listings for contact details of local guiding and activity companies.

Check out what to do around town once the lifts have closed with our Apres Ski Report - a weekly round up of what's hot and where to party in Chamonix!