Chamonix in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Chamonix
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Valley trails and lower altitude hikes (1,000-1,500m / 3,280-4,920ft) are at their greenest with wildflowers blooming and waterfalls at peak flow from snowmelt
- Tourist crowds are 40% lower than summer peak season, with accommodation prices averaging €80-120 per night versus €150-200 in July-August
- Perfect weather window for this destination cable car (3,842m / 12,605ft) - clearer skies than winter but without summer cloud buildup that often obscures views after 2pm
- Mountain restaurants and mid-altitude refuges reopen after winter closure, offering authentic Savoyard cuisine without summer reservation battles
Considerations
- High altitude trails above 2,000m (6,560ft) remain snow-covered and inaccessible - popular routes like Lac Blanc and Grand Balcon Nord typically don't open until mid-June
- Weather is highly unpredictable with temperatures swinging 15°C (27°F) between morning frost and afternoon warmth, requiring constant layer adjustments
- Afternoon thunderstorms develop rapidly in mountains, with 70% chance of rain between 2-6pm, often forcing early retreat from exposed trails
Best Activities in May
Aiguille du Midi Cable Car and Mer de Glace Train
May offers the best visibility window for these iconic mountain experiences. Morning departures (8-11am) provide crystal-clear views before afternoon clouds roll in. The Mer de Glace glacier is most impressive with spring snowmelt creating dramatic ice formations. Temperatures at 3,842m (12,605ft) range from -5 to 5°C (23-41°F), perfect for extended viewing without the bitter cold of winter months.
Valley Floor Cycling and E-bike Tours
Perfect May conditions for cycling the this destination floor with comfortable temperatures (12-18°C / 54-64°F) and impressive mountain backdrops. The 23km (14.3 mile) Petit Balcon Sud trail is completely accessible, offering panoramic Mont Blanc views without altitude challenges. Morning cycles (9am-12pm) avoid afternoon rain patterns.
Les Houches and Brevent Lower Station Hiking
Accessible hiking at 1,000-1,500m (3,280-4,920ft) elevation where trails are clear of snow but still offer dramatic Alpine scenery. The Cascade du Dard waterfall trail (2.5km / 1.6 miles) is at peak flow from snowmelt. Perfect temperatures for moderate exertion without overheating, typically 8-15°C (46-59°F) at these elevations.
Montenvers Railway and Ice Cave Experience
May is optimal for the historic cogwheel train to Montenvers (1,913m / 6,276ft) with comfortable temperatures for the ice cave exploration. Spring conditions mean the glacier is most active with dramatic crevasse formations. The 20-minute train journey offers unobstructed Mont Blanc views before summer haze develops.
Alpine Museum and Rainy Day Cultural Experiences
Essential backup for May's unpredictable weather. The Alpine Museum showcases Chamonix's mountaineering history with authentic gear and expedition stories. Crystal Gallery displays local mineral specimens. May's cooler temperatures make indoor exploration comfortable while waiting out afternoon storms.
Savoyard Cuisine and Mountain Restaurant Dining
May marks the reopening of mountain restaurants after winter closure. Perfect weather for outdoor terraces serving traditional fondue, raclette, and tartiflette. Afternoon dining (12-3pm) takes advantage of warmest temperatures while avoiding evening chill. Local spring ingredients include fresh Alpine herbs and early season vegetables.
May Events & Festivals
Cosmojazz Festival
Annual jazz festival featuring international artists performing in unique Alpine venues including mountain restaurants and outdoor stages. Combines world-class music with impressive mountain backdrops, taking advantage of May's mild evening temperatures for outdoor concerts.