Chamonix sits at 1,035 metres (3,396 feet) in the French Alps at the base of Mont Blanc, giving it a true alpine climate with cold snowy winters and mild summers. Temperatures drop below freezing from December through February, while July and August bring daytime highs of 23-24°C (73-75°F). The town receives about 1,275mm of precipitation annually, with significant snowfall from November through April. The high altitude means UV levels are strong year-round and weather can change rapidly in the mountains. Chamonix travel tips
Chamonix Weather by Month: Temperature and Rainfall Breakdown
Chamonix has four distinct seasons. Winter runs December through March with temperatures often below freezing and heavy snowfall ideal for skiing. Spring (April to May) sees melting snow, rising temperatures, and fewer crowds. Summer (June to September) is the busiest season with warm sunny days for hiking and mountaineering. Autumn (October to November) brings crisp air, fall colours, and the first snowfalls. The average annual temperature is 8°C (46°F), with January being the coldest month and July the warmest. where to stay in Chamonix
January
January is Chamonix’s coldest month with average highs of 3°C (37°F) and lows of -6°C (21°F). The town receives about 105mm of precipitation over 13 days, almost all as snow. With only 2-3 hours of daily sunshine, days are short and grey. Snow depths in the ski area typically exceed 150cm at altitude. The Brévent and Flégère ski areas are fully open, and the cold temperatures keep snow conditions excellent on-piste. Chamonix neighbourhoods guide
February
February brings slightly warmer temperatures with highs of 5°C (41°F) and lows of -5°C (23°F). Precipitation averages 90mm over 11 days. French school holidays fall in mid-February, so the town is busier and lift queues are longer. Snow conditions are typically at their peak depth, and off-piste skiing is at its best. Sunshine increases to about 4 hours per day. Chamonix events and festivals
March
March sees spring arrive in the valley while winter holds on in the mountains. Highs reach 9°C (48°F) with lows of -1°C (30°F). Precipitation is around 95mm over 12 days, a mix of rain in town and snow at altitude. The longer days (5-6 hours of sun) make March a favourite for ski touring and off-piste. South-facing slopes become slushy by afternoon, but north-facing runs stay firm. The Vallée Blanche glacier run is typically in prime condition. things to do in Chamonix
April
April is a transition month. Valley highs climb to 13°C (55°F) while lows hover at 2°C (36°F). About 100mm of precipitation falls over 14 days, often as rain in town and wet snow higher up. Most ski areas close by the third week of April, though the Grands Montets glacier often stays open into early May. Spring flowers appear in the valley and lower hiking trails start to clear of snow. This is a quiet month with discounted accommodation. best time to visit Chamonix
May
May sees proper spring weather with valley highs of 17°C (63°F) and lows of 6°C (43°F). Rainfall increases to 120mm over 16 days, the start of Chamonix’s wettest period. The valley is lush and green, but high-altitude hiking trails remain snow-covered until late May or early June. The Aiguille du Midi cable car runs year-round and offers the best mountain views in clear spring weather. Most lifts are closed for maintenance between the winter and summer seasons. Chamonix travel guide
June
June brings summer warmth with highs of 21°C (70°F) and lows of 9°C (48°F). It is the third-wettest month at 115mm over 15 days, often with afternoon thunderstorms that build over the peaks. Hiking trails open progressively, with the high-altitude routes around Lac Blanc and the Tour du Mont Blanc becoming accessible by mid-to-late June. Daylight extends to 16 hours, giving you long days for outdoor activities. The summer lift system opens around mid-June.
July
July is the warmest and busiest month. Daytime highs average 23°C (73°F) with lows of 11°C (52°F). Rainfall is about 100mm over 13 days, usually as short afternoon storms. With 8-9 hours of daily sunshine, this is prime hiking season. All lifts are running and the Tour du Mont Blanc is in full swing. Accommodation prices peak and advance booking is essential. The UV index regularly hits 8-9, so sun protection at altitude is critical.
August
August is nearly as warm as July with highs of 22°C (72°F) and lows of 11°C (52°F). It is Chamonix’s wettest month at 130mm over 15 days, and afternoon thunderstorms are frequent. The first half of August coincides with European holidays, making the town extremely crowded. By the last week, crowds thin out as French and Italian families return home. All summer lifts run through the end of August, and the UTMB (Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc) race usually takes place in the last week.
September
September is one of the best months to visit Chamonix. Highs reach 18°C (64°F) with lows of 7°C (45°F). Rainfall drops to 100mm over 12 days. The summer crowds are gone, the weather is still warm, and hiking conditions are excellent. Autumn colours begin in the forests by late September. Most summer lifts run until mid-September, with some closing by the end of the month. Hotel prices drop by 20-30% from August peaks.
October
October is autumn proper with highs of 14°C (57°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F). About 110mm of precipitation falls over 13 days. The larch forests turn golden, creating some of the most photogenic landscapes of the year. Most summer lifts are closed by early October, and many hotels and restaurants shut for their annual break between seasons. The first snowfalls dust the peaks, but skiing is not yet possible. This is the quietest month for tourism.
November
November is a cold, quiet month. Highs reach 7°C (45°F) with lows of -1°C (30°F). Precipitation is 115mm over 14 days, increasingly falling as snow at altitude. The town is sleepy as hotels and restaurants that closed in October gradually reopen in preparation for the winter season. The first snow cannons begin operating on the slopes. With only 2-3 hours of daily sun, it is Chamonix’s darkest month. The ski season typically starts in the last week of November at Grands Montets.
December
December brings full winter conditions with highs of 3°C (37°F) and lows of -5°C (23°F). About 110mm of precipitation falls over 14 days, nearly all as snow. The ski areas progressively open through the first two weeks. The Christmas and New Year period is extremely busy with peak accommodation rates, often 50-100% higher than January prices. Snow depths build quickly, and by Christmas the majority of the Chamonix ski domain is operational.
Chamonix Weather by Month: Quick Reference Table
| Month | Avg High (°C) | Avg Low (°C) | Rain (mm) | Rain Days | Sun (hrs/day) | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3 | -6 | 105 | 13 | 2-3 | Heavy |
| Feb | 5 | -5 | 90 | 11 | 4 | Heavy |
| Mar | 9 | -1 | 95 | 12 | 5-6 | Moderate |
| Apr | 13 | 2 | 100 | 14 | 6 | Light |
| May | 17 | 6 | 120 | 16 | 7 | Trace |
| Jun | 21 | 9 | 115 | 15 | 8 | None |
| Jul | 23 | 11 | 100 | 13 | 8-9 | None |
| Aug | 22 | 11 | 130 | 15 | 7-8 | None |
| Sep | 18 | 7 | 100 | 12 | 6 | None |
| Oct | 14 | 3 | 110 | 13 | 4 | Trace |
| Nov | 7 | -1 | 115 | 14 | 2-3 | Light |
| Dec | 3 | -5 | 110 | 14 | 2 | Heavy |
