Real-time traffic conditions
Information: The weather conditions expected between Saturday noon and the end of the day on Sunday will be extremely difficult, with snowfall and a fluctuating rain-snow limit for 36 hours. For the start and descent from Val Thorens, special equipment will be mandatory upon leaving the station. We recommend that you anticipate the assembly of your equipment. The authorities will carry out systematic checks of vehicles upon departure from Val Thorens.
Reminder: a total or partial withdrawal you must be equipped with four snow tires, metal snow chains or socks allowing at least two drive wheels. Chains and socks are for sale in the station, the list of sellers can be found further down the page.
Advice for a peaceful climb
We have put together some tips for you so that your journey takes place... in the best possible atmosphere!
- Don't forget your chains, remember to leave them accessible and, before leaving, test fit them on your vehicle
- Equip yourself with warm clothes, an electric lamp and water
- In the event of a traffic jam, do not leave your vehicle without being invited to do so by the police.
- We remind you that it is prohibited to overtake snow removal equipment during work.
Information will be relayed on local radio R' Val Thorens / Les Menuires (101,0 Mhz) and on France Bleu Pays de Savoie (103,9 Mhz).
Please note: since November 1, 2021, chains or winter tires are mandatory in mountainous areas
To limit traffic jams on the roads in mountainous regions and improve user safety, you must be equipped with winter tires or have chains in your trunk during winter in certain municipalities. The obligation came into force from November 1, 2021.
So, to come to Val Thorens, light vehicles, utility vehicles and motorhomes must:
- either have removable anti-skid devices allowing at least two drive wheels to be fitted (metal snow chains, hybrid chains, textile chains, snow socks)
- either be equipped with four tires suitable for winter driving (winter tires)
Good to know: since 1er November 2024, tires with only the M+S (Mud + Snow) marking are no longer accepted. Only 3PMSF tires are accepted as equivalent to chains. (3PMSF stands for "Three peak mountain snow flake"). The purchase and use of other "snow tires" remains possible, but users will also need to have chains in this case. The 3PMSF marking is the only guarantee of winter performance in all conditions because it is based on a standardized European test of tire traction performance.
4-season tires with the 3PMSF marking are therefore accepted.
Practical
Where to buy chains or socks at Val Thorens ?
As a last resort, it is possible to purchase chains or socks at Val Thorens. You can find them at the station’s car park receptions and at certain retailers.
