To find out where the snow is, I use several resources:
- Ventuski 🌐: This website provides a snow cover layer that helps me visualize snow conditions.
- Windy 🌬️: Another great tool with a snow cover layer for real-time updates.
- Copernicus 🌍 or EO Browser 🛰️: These platforms offer up-to-date aerial imagery, allowing me to see if there is snow. However, be cautious! Many satellite images may have clouds ☁️, which can be misleading. Always double-check to avoid confusing snow with cloud cover.
- Webcams 📷: I check various mountain webcams, especially at major ski resorts. These live feeds give a good indication of snow levels, fog, or cloud presence.
🚨 Warning: In any doubt, just don't go! Avalanches are deadly. 🚨
For avalanche risk assessment, I rely on:
- YETI (Camptocamp) ☃️: A bit tricky to use but very usefull.
- Meteo France 🌧️: Their mountain weather section offers valuable insights into avalanche risks in the Northern Alps.
When it comes to snowshoeing, timing is everything! Here are my recommendations:
- Fresh Snow ❄️: I highly recommend going out shortly after a fresh snowfall. The experience is much more enjoyable on soft, powdery snow.
- Ice Caution 🧊: Be aware that overnight, fresh snow can turn into ice. Using snowshoes on ice is not as fun and can be quite challenging.
I once canceled a hike due to a severe thunderstorm forecasted in the Belledonne range. I was grateful for that decision, as the thunder was followed by large hailstones 🌨️. A few days later, hikers who were caught in the storm shared their terrifying experience of seeking shelter under trees and rocks. Always prioritize safety when thunderstorms are predicted!
To avoid rain during my hikes, I use Meteoblue 🌦️. Here’s how:
- Meteoblue Website (or mobile app): You can find forecasts for specific locations, including Grenoble.
- Meteoblue Where2Go 🌍: This tool is incredibly useful! You select a city (e.g., Grenoble), choose the day of your hike, and set a radius (30, 60, 100 km, etc.). The map will show you the best places to go for more sun and hopefully avoid rain.
- Ventusky 🌪️: I also use this tool for a second opinion on weather forecasts.
In the summer, finding drinking water in the nearby mountains can be challenging:
- Dry Sources 🚫: Many water sources tend to dry up, especially in the Chartreuse and Vercors ranges.
- Belledonne 🏔️: In contrast, Belledonne is generally more reliable for water, thanks to the ice on top of the peaks that slowly melts, providing a consistent water supply.