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French Swiss Alps on May 1st...Bad time to visit Chamonix?

We will visit Chamonix and Annecy starting May 1st. Looked at typical weather for that time on internet and it was anywhere from 25 to 50 degrees...can that be correct? Was hoping to wear capris but now I'm rethinking if I will need jeans and hiking boots instead of Dansko Sandals. Any thoughts please? I usually don't pack jeans due to their weight. Thank you.

Posted by
5837 posts

https://www.j2ski.com/ski_resorts/France/Chamonix.html

Chamonix Season Dates We have no confirmed season dates for Chamonix.
Usual closing - Late April.

Current conditions:
https://www.j2ski.com/snow_forecast/France/Chamonix_snow.html

Current Snow Forecast Chamonix is reporting “Spring Snow(Hi), Soft”
with very light new snow forecast in the next 48 hours.

The next notable snow forecast for Chamonix is 3cm, expected on 25
March, with around 11cm forecast over the next 7 days.

Chamonix Skiing Conditions Reported Tuesday 22nd March 2016 Chamonix
is Open Snow Depth - High 700cm Snow Depth - Low 10cm Snow
Conditions in Chamonix: spring snow(hi), soft Last Snow: 1cm of Snow
- 22 March The Avalanche Risk Level for Chamonix was recently reported as 2 (Moderate). Snow changes rapidly, so always check Local Snow
Conditions before leaving marked runs.

Posted by
32352 posts

peas,

The weather forecast for Chamonix currently shows a high of 53F to 59F on that week, with the highest temp. on May 4th. I wouldn't bother with hiking boots unless you're actually going to be hiking in the mountains. If you're just going to be walking around town or travelling on the Aguille du Midi, normal street shoes should be fine. Taking some clothes for "layering" would be prudent, along with light rain gear (which is a good idea at any time of the year).

Posted by
2161 posts

Hi Peas, we visited Chamonix last year (May 31-June 2). The temperature was 45-50 degrees in town, but about 25-30 degrees at the top of the Aiguille du Midi. There was a wide variation depending on the elevation. I was comfortable in jeans, trail running-type tennis shoes, and a hooded sweatshirt over a light fleece. If you're planning to be there for a few days, I'd re-think the sandals. Beautiful scenery, we loved the area. Hope you have a great trip!

Posted by
19 posts

Thank you so much for your replies. I had now idea it would be that cool which is no problem, just have to rethink what I will be bringing and pack a little heavier. Thank you too for suggestions on what to wear!