When is the best time to hike the Tour des Combins?
The Tour des Combins is a stunning and challenging hiking trail that takes you through the majestic Alps, with breathtaking views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and remote mountain passes. Stretching across both Switzerland and Italy, it offers hikers a chance to experience some of the most dramatic and unspoiled landscapes in the European Alps. However, because of its high-altitude terrain and the variable mountain weather, timing your hike is crucial to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and comfortable experience. So, when is the best time to hike the Tour des Combins?
1. The Best Season: Late June to Early September
The ideal time weatherwise to hike the Tour des Combins is generally between late June and early September, which corresponds to the summer season in the Alps. During this time, the trail is most accessible, with warmer weather, clearer skies, longer days and less risk of snow blocking the path.
Here's why:
Snow Conditions: Since much of the Tour des Combins passes over high-altitude passes (up to 3,000 meters or about 10,000 feet), snow can remain on the trails well into the spring and even early summer. Most of the higher sections are typically free of snow by late June, making it the safest and most accessible time to hike. Also, it’s unlikely for new snow to fall, which often begins from early September.
Weather: Summer (late June to September) brings the warmest and most stable weather conditions. Temperatures during the day are generally pleasant for hiking, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), but can drop significantly at higher altitudes, especially in the evenings. June and September are slightly cooler but still great for hiking, with fewer crowds compared to peak July and August.
Accommodation Availability: Many of the huts, mountain refuges, and accommodation along the route open in June and close in September. This ensures that the infrastructure needed for hikers, such as food and shelter, is fully available during these months.
Cabane FXB overlooks the Corbassiere glacier
2. Should You Hike in Early or Late Season?
While late June to early September is generally the best time to hike the Tour des Combins, you might be wondering if it's worth hiking in early summer (June) or early fall (September). Both options come with pros and cons:
Early Summer (June)
Pros:
Fewer crowds: Fewer people on the trail means a more peaceful and isolated experience.
Green, blooming landscapes: Early summer brings vibrant wildflowers and lush green meadows.
Remaining snow: Some higher-altitude passes might still have snow, creating a unique and exciting challenge for experienced hikers.
Cons:
Lingering snow on high passes: While the trail is generally accessible by late June, there could still be patches of snow and ice on the higher sections, making them tricky and potentially dangerous without proper equipment (crampons or even an ice axe).
Variable weather: Late spring weather can be more unpredictable, with rain showers or cold fronts potentially affecting your hike.
early season hiking
Check current snow levels in our planning app to determine safe hiking routes
Early Fall (September)
Pros:
Ideal weather: September and even early October can still offer great weather, but temperatures start to cool down, which is comfortable for hiking, but colder at night.
Fewer crowds: As the summer holidays end, fewer hikers are on the trail, allowing for a quieter experience.
Stunning fall colors: The alpine forests start to change color, offering beautiful autumn foliage along some sections of the trail.
Swimming: The mountain lakes will be at their warmest, so if you’ve always wanted to have a dip in one, this is your chance!
Cons:
Shorter days: As autumn approaches, the days shorten, giving you less daylight to hike. Plan your days carefully to avoid being caught in the dark.
Cooler temperatures: While the weather can still be pleasant, higher-altitude sections will be much cooler, especially as the sun sets, and you’ll need warmer clothing as you approach the mountain passes.
Cabane de Mille in September
3. Why Avoid Late Fall and Winter
During the late fall, winter and early spring months (November through April) are generally not recommended for most hikers due to the following reasons:
Heavy Snowfall: Snow can start to accumulate as early as October, and high-altitude passes often remain inaccessible until late spring. Snow-covered trails and avalanches can pose serious risks for hikers, even for experienced trekkers. In the colder months, many sections of the trail may be completely impassable.
Closed Mountain Huts: During the off-season, most mountain huts and accommodations along the trail close for the winter months. This makes camping or finding shelter difficult in these remote areas. Some mountain huts may still be open in October, but many are closed until mid June, meaning hikers need to be prepared to carry everything they need, including camping materials.
Unpredictable Weather: Even during summer, alpine weather can be unpredictable, with sudden storms and high winds. Fall and winter bring even more severe weather, including heavy rain, snowstorms, and freezing temperatures. This makes the trail much more hazardous and less enjoyable.
Transport: Outside the prime summer season the transport options are more limited. Buses will go less often or not at all. Even though the schedules are very reliable in Switzerland, they change according to the season, leaving you to rely on hiking more than expected. Hitchhiking is also an option in the Alps as locals understand the challenges of more remote roads. Always be safe however and keep in mind the risks before getting in a car with someone.
summer transport schedules
Access the seasonal transport schedules for buses and cable cars along the Tour des Combins
4. Other Factors to Consider
Trail Conditions: Trail conditions can vary depending on snowmelt, rainfall, and overall weather. Early summer (June) can sometimes still have unstable sections with snow or ice, when that’s melted away it might still remain muddy, while mid-summer (July-August) generally offers the most accessible conditions.
Mountain Huts: Make sure to book your huts in advance, especially during the peak summer months (July-August), as they can fill up quickly. You’ll want to secure your spots early to avoid complications.
Weather Alerts: Always check the weather forecast and prepare for rapidly changing conditions, especially in the mountains, where storms can come without warning. Being flexible and well-prepared is essential.
Mauvoisin Lac
Conclusion: The Best Time to Hike the Tour des Combins
The best time to hike the Tour des Combins is typically from late June to early September, when the weather is most favorable, the trail is clear of snow, and mountain huts are open. The choice between early or late summer depends on your preferences for weather and crowds, but both options offer stunning alpine landscapes and a challenging yet rewarding experience.
No matter when you go, the Tour des Combins will provide a thrilling and unforgettable adventure through some of the most scenic and rugged terrain in the Alps—just make sure to plan accordingly and prepare for the changing mountain conditions. Happy hiking!