The walking season in the Pyrenees on high-mountain paths without using snow shoes or crampons usually starts in June, depending on how much snow falls during the spring.
Mountain lovers preparing to hit the trails, or launch on the GR-11 trans-Pyrenean footpath, can be found scouring social media and websites for indications of what conditions are like and how much snow remains at the passes and high areas.
One priceless source of information is compiled by staff from the mountain refuges.
Reports about conditions on specific routes and footpaths in Aragón region can be found at the excellent website produced by experts from Góriz, La Renclusa, Cap de Llauset, Respomuso and other mountain huts.
Their updates (along with maps) can be found by following the link, https://www.alberguesyrefugios.com/seguridad
National park pointers
Information is also posted via social media by Ordesa y Monte Perdido national park employees.
On May 23, 2025 they revealed on their Facebook page: “There’s a lot of snow above 2,200 metres, so plan your routes carefully in the mountains.”
They explained that heavy falls in recent months have led to large accumulations in medium and high mountain areas of the Pyrenees, including their own national park.
Anyone planning routes above 2,200-2,300m is sure to encounter hard snow and ice, they noted.
They also provided ‘essential safety advice’ for walking in high mountain areas while these conditions continue.
They note that walkers should carry an ice axe and crampons and ‘know how to use them correctly’. A helmet is also advisable, they say.
Rapid changes in weather conditions can bring snow or hail during the spring, they note.
With snowmelt and downpours at this time of year, streams in ravines can turn into torrents, or be very fast flowing, they add. This can make them dangerous to cross and great care has to be taken.
Recent Comments