Alps: the snow melted — but not for long

The German Alpine Club (DAV) Bergbericht for 16–18 October 2026 says paths in the German Mittelgebirge and Bavarian Prealps are mostly dry again, though damp stretches on north-facing shady meadow trails remain possible. Last week’s snow has mostly gone from higher peaks; above about 3000–3200 m, mainly on north sides, a thin cover lingers — expect some snow on rock approaches.

Glaciers too: from Similaun (Ötztal Alps) about 20 cm was reported Sunday on the Niederjochferner — narrow crevasses are harder to spot. Weekend weather turns unsettled: Friday still sunny in the Eastern Alps (freezing level ~3300–4000 m); Saturday brings cloud, fog and some rain in western and northern Eastern Alps, snow above ~2500 m; in the Western Alps Saturday–Sunday stay cloudy with precipitation, snow line possibly down to ~2000 m.

DAV tip: use Friday if you can; Saturday - short dry half-day tours with an early start; Sunday looks better toward the east. After Saturday rain expect wet paths again - good tread and poles; colder, pack warm layers. Most high alpine huts are already closed.