your guide to the best conditions

Do you want to be in the right place at the right time?  The first step to finding the best conditions is to know what you are looking for, the second step is being flexible.

High summits - as a simple guide: routes that require good snow cover and ice tend to be in good condition in the spring and early summer, and those routes that require dry rock tend to be in good condition in late summer and autumn.

Treks - the best time of year for trekking is very subjective.  Spring and early summer have long days and great flowers - but some high passes may be difficult because of snow.  Mid summer is great, but can be hot and stormy.  Late summer and autumn are cooler for walking, and as the season progresses has great colour in the forests. 

Rock climbs - because it is easy to change altitude and aspect, rock climbing around Leysin is a year round activity.  South facing crags that are excellent in spring and autumn can be too hot in mid summer when high north facing crags are perfect for escaping the heat.

Good ice and mixed routes - the lower altitude cascades are often in good condition from early December and through January.  As the winter advances the best ice conditions then tend to 'move up' the mountain.  A lot depends on the orientation of particular climbs and the change in exposure to the sun as winter turns to spring.  The higher altitude climbs tend to be in the best condition in spring and early summer.  In mid summer the options can be limited to just the highest north faces, and even then they may not be in good condition.  Good ice conditions can return later in the summer and during autumn.

For updates on conditions see latest news from the Alps.