It has been a habit for a few years, Pat comes to the opening of the Méribel and 3 Valleys resort with his friend Valérie. At the beginning of December 2024 there are beautiful conditions of cold and fresh snow. About thirty cm of beautiful powder snow covers the slopes of the 3 valleys. The good snowfalls of November have formed a base layer at altitude above 1800m. The resort is only open on part of the area and there are really not many people.
The conditions are therefore ideal for exploring the slopes that are not yet open and are all in powder. I choose the closed slopes or the grassy areas in the summer to avoid the sharks that you encounter in places that are too stony. From Méribel we radiate out to the most interesting areas: Côte Brune, Becca, Roc de Tougne or even on the Lauze.
Sometimes we use the skins for short climbs that allow us to reach beautiful slopes untouched by tracks. We have a great time but our leg muscles quickly remind us that it is only the beginning of the winter season and that we have to take it easy. What is really cool is to enjoy these descents in powder snow while having time to trace quietly. A privilege that is usually earned by hiking for longer.
Skis are itching ? See there for a great day in Méribel.