Les Arcs is looking properly wintry again this week, with the upper mountain holding a solid blanket of snow and the tree lines around 1600 and 1800 giving that classic mid February feel. Mornings have been crisp and clear before cloud has drifted in at times, and the pistes are in good order across the Paradiski area. There is a steady buzz around resort with half term underway, but on the hill it still feels well spread out and easy to find quieter pockets.
Snow and Weather Summary
Current snow depths are around 85 cm at 1600 metres and approximately 175 cm on the upper slopes near the Aiguille Rouge at 3200 metres. Over the past few days between 10 and 20 cm of fresh snow has fallen above 2000 metres, with lighter amounts lower down. This has improved surface conditions noticeably, especially on north facing reds and blacks where the snow is chalky and grippy rather than firm.
Daytime temperatures in resort have been sitting between minus 1 and plus 4 degrees, dropping to around minus 6 overnight. At altitude temperatures have ranged from minus 11 to minus 5 degrees, keeping the snow in good condition. The freezing level has hovered between 1700 and 2100 metres during milder spells before lowering again overnight. Winds have been moderate on exposed ridges, particularly near the Aiguille Rouge, but most lifts have operated without significant disruption.
A more notable snow dump is forecast from late Friday into Saturday. Current models suggest 25 to 40 cm of new snow above 2200 metres, with 15 to 30 cm possible down to resort level depending on how quickly colder air pushes in. This should freshen the entire ski area and significantly improve off piste potential once it settles.
