December to February
Average temperatures: -10°C to 2°C (14°F to 36°F)
Bundle up! It's a winter wonderland here, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, sledging, and winter hiking. The area is particularly known for its extensive slopes and the longest sledding run in Europe, the Big Pintenfritz. The snow is deep, and the views are epic!
March to May
Average temperatures: 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F)
Spring has sprung! The snow starts to melt, and the flowers bloom. It's a great time for hiking and picnics amidst the lush landscapes. Even some spring skiing in early March before the snow fully melts. Just be prepared for a mix of sun and occasional snowfall.
June to August
Average temperatures: 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F)
Summertime in Grindelwald comes with pleasant weather with clear skies and longer daylight hours, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. Hike, bike, or just chill and enjoy scenic cable car rides. It's the busiest time, so be prepared for crowds.
September to November
Average temperatures: 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F)
The leaves change color, and the air gets crisp. The weather can be windy with occasional rain. It's a peaceful time for hiking amid beautiful autumn colors. You can also try activities like zip-lining with the First Glider or explore the area’s scenic viewpoints.
Mostly, yes, Grindelwald First is open year-round. The mountain facilities are typically open from May to October for summer activities, and from December to April for winter sports. Exact opening dates vary each year based on snow conditions. It will be briefly closed from October 28, 2024 to November 29, 2024 due to maintenance reasons.
Yes, Grindelwald First receives significant snowfall, especially from December through March. On average, there are 17 days with snow in January. Total snowfall averages 136 mm in January, 114 mm in February, and 56 mm in March. The snow usually starts melting in April.
Throughout the year, snow falls for approximately 97.4 days in Grindelwald, Switzerland.
The best time to visit depends on your interests:
- Winter (December to April): Ideal for skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and winter hiking. Expect cold temperatures (-10°C to -2°C) and heavy snowfall.
- Summer (June to September): Perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying scenic views. Temperatures are mild (10°C to 18°C) but rain is common.
- Spring (May) and Fall (October): A mix of winter and summer activities. Temperatures are cool (0°C to 12°C) with a higher chance of precipitation.
June and July have the highest UV index in Grindelwald, with an average maximum UV index of 4.
The wettest month in Grindelwald First is May, with rain falling for 22 days and typically totaling up to 117mm (4.61") of precipitation.
September is the driest month, with rain falling for 16.4 days and typically collecting 50mm (1.97") of precipitation.
Summer days at Grindelwald First are mild, with average highs of 10°C to 18°C from June through August. However, rain is common, with 15-22 days of rain on average in July. Temperatures can drop significantly at night. Layering clothing is recommended.
Daylight Saving Time starts on the last Sunday of March (26th March 2023), when the time zone changes from CET to CEST. It ends on the last Sunday of October (29th October 2023), when the time zone reverts from CEST to CET.
July is the sunniest month, offering an average of 8.9 hours of sunshine in Grindelwald First.
If you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting in May, early June, or October. These shoulder season months have fewer visitors than the peak summer and winter sports seasons. However, some facilities may have reduced hours or be closed during these times.
Grindelwald First does have unique weather-related events and experiences. Notably, the World Snow Festival in January showcases stunning snow sculptures. The First Cliff Walk provides breathtaking views year-round, especially after snowfall. In winter, enjoy Europe’s longest sledging run, Big Pintenfritz, for a thrilling ride.