When is the best time to climb Mont Blanc?

The best time to climb Mont Blanc is between June to September with the months of July and August considered the 'peak' period. The weather is generally reliable but mountain conditions can be unpredictable.

When it comes to embarking on a hiking expedition up Europe's tallest mountain, figuring out the best time to climb it is very important. After all, you don't want to reach the top and not see the spectacular scenery you were expecting because you picked the wrong season to climb in. While the Mont Blanc region and surrounding towns such as Chamonix and Les Bossons can be visited at any point throughout the year with each season offering plenty of fun-filled, cultural activities, the summer months of June, July, and August, as well as the autumn month of September, are considered the best time to climb Mont Blanc itself. 

Climbing seasons in Mont Blanc

Mont Blanc in summer

The best time of year to climb Mont Blanc is between the months of June to September with the months of July and August considered the 'peak' period. This is because of the great and reliable weather experienced during the summer months throughout Europe. So, if you're climbing during these months, expect crowds along the Tour du Mont Blanc and surrounding towns such as Chamonix. 

However, the weather conditions in the mountains can change rapidly and can also be unpredictable so just because you're traveling in summer doesn't guarantee you'll experience great weather. The conditions for climbing can also be affected by the previous winter season's snowfall, so keep this in mind when you're planning when to climb. 

You should also be mindful of booking your accommodation well in advance as there are a limited number of options and they can get full relatively quickly. 

Mont Blanc in winter

Climbing Mont Blanc in the winter months of December, January, and February is simply not advisable as weather conditions make what is already a difficult and challenging climb that much more difficult and challenging. Since the weather in winter can be bitter and reach temperatures as low as 12°F, climbing during these months won't even be enjoyable. If you want to avoid the crowds and not travel during the peak periods, try climbing in either June or September, as there'll be fewer people on the trails, and accommodation prices won't be as expensive. 

Average temperatures in Mont Blanc

Month

Average high

Average low

March to May

40°F

32°F

June to August

63°F

50°F

September to November

48°F

34°F

December to February

26°F

16°F

 

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