View from the top of the Aiguille du Midi, Chamonix, this morning.
Winter 2011-12 is almost over - although someone should tell the weather gods. Whilst the majority of resorts will be closing their lifts this coming weekend, 22nd April, the snow has been falling for the last week and more is due to come during this week - possibly up to another 30cms in some areas!
Conditions above 1600m are exceptional for mid-April (actually they're pretty good for anytime in the winter) and at high altitude the quality of the snow both on and off piste is fantastic. If you're tempted to have a last blast weekend or short break here's a quick round up of what's open beyond 22nd April.
Chamonix: Flegere opening has been extended until April 29th. The Grands Montets remains open until May 8th.
Three Valleys: It looks like most of the Three Valleys areas will be closing this weekend but the individual valleys will have limited opening after that. Courchevel 1850 for example is going on until 27th, Les Menuires until 28th, Meribel-Mottaret 27th. Val Thorens remains open until 8th May.
Espace Killy - Tignes - Val d'Isere: The Espace Killy is officially open until 1st May and Tignes continues until 8th May.
Paradiski: Both Les Arcs and La Plagne continue until 28/29th April.
Alpe d'Huez & Les 2 Alpes: Closing 27th and 28th April respectively.
Verbier: closing day is 1st May
Zermatt: 6th May.
Iscghl in Austria has their final blast on 29th April with Mariah Carey performing at the annual top of the mountain closing shindig.
We've looked at the major areas but if anyone has more information or news about extended opening in other resorts please let us know - send an email or post on our Facebook page.
So there's still a bit of time to enjoy the epic snow we've had this winter! And if you've already put away your boots and boards, then it's not too early to look forward to next season!