Here we are back for another season, buzzing for the return of all the fresh snow, the magic of winter and making the first turns of the ski season!
Alpe d’Huez is gearing up for its opening on 6 December right through to 19 April 2026 and early signs are looking really promising. The first big storm of the winter has dumped a hefty amount of snow across the resort, leaving the upper slopes sitting at around 120cm with fresh powder on top. Mid-mountain already has a healthy layer of snow near 80cm. After such a solid base this early on it’s hard not to get excited.
The weather has cooled right down which is exactly what we want. The next few days look mainly dry with freezing nights and cold days, so the snowpack should stay in really good shape while the piste bashing teams crack on with preparing the pistes. There might be a light sprinkle mid-week but nothing major. In short the snow that’s already here is sticking around and staying fresh.
If you’re heading out for opening week you’ll be met with great conditions up high and soft winter snow across the top half of the mountain. Lower down might be a touch thinner but still perfectly skiable for early December.
What’s new in Alpe d’Huez this winter
There’s loads of new stuff in the resort this winter too. The big Altitude 3300 lift project is moving forward with new cabins and revamped stations which should mean smoother trips into the high mountains. You can now book a spot on the Pic Blanc cable car with the Direct to the Peak pass so no more long waits on busy days. Off the slopes you’ve got mountain karts for daytime thrills, night descents from Rif Nel and a huge new airbag where you can launch yourself about on skis safely. There’s also a new picnic room up near the first section of Pic Blanc, fresh photopoints and even a sugar shack at the foot of the slopes for hot treats and proper cosy vibes.
The first big event for the winter is the Trophée Mer Montagne from 15 to 18 December with sailors and mountain athletes teaming up for friendly challenges and film nights in the village.
All in all it’s shaping up to be a cracking start to the season. If this early snow is anything to go by December in Alpe d’Huez is going to be brilliant.
