In a typical year, the lower sections of the TMB and Haute Route are snow-free by early June. Even in May, you can expect to find lush green valleys, and you can sit outside in the afternoons without a sweater. It’s not until you start to climb out of the valleys that you normally find snow. Some high passes hold snow way into the summer season, such as Col de la Croix du Bonhomme or Grand Col Ferret on the TMB, and the Col de Prafleuri or Pas de Riedmatten on the Haute Route. These are often still snowy in July, but the tracks are well trodden.

This depends on how comfortable you are hiking on snow. Unless you’re hiking in August, you will probably need to cross some patches of snow, and if you’re hiking in June or early July, these might be quite long and steep. Sturdy hiking boots with a good tread are usually enough to navigate these, but micro-spikes can make a huge difference if you’re starting early, and / or if you’re not confident walking on snow.

Early-season hikers should prepare for 1. Hiking on steep snow patches that typically cover the highest passes; 2. Crossing snow bridges over streams, which often melt from the bottom and can collapse into the water below; 3. Crossing fast-flowing rivers. In our condition reports, we pay special attention to these three main hazards, and post regular updates on how they are changing.

People hiking in late July – August should 1. Set off early to avoid afternoon storms, and 2. Be prepared for water shortages on certain sections, as some water fountains dry up. We’ll post regular updates on weather conditions, to give you an idea of what afternoon storms can look like and how to adjust your route. Additionally, we’ll note any water fountains that are no longer running.