Many travellers are discovering that the winter mountains are changing faster than expected. This ‘winter heatwave’ is a concern for both businesses and tourists; freezing levels near 3,000 metres and temperatures running 5–10°C above normal have left pistes snow-starved and winter sports operators searching for higher-altitude snowfields or relying on overnight artificial snow production.
Hut to Hut Hiking Dolomites, a mountain travel specialist in Italy’s UNESCO-listed Dolomite range, explains how these climate anomalies are affecting alpine travel year-round and why travellers can still enjoy compelling mountain experiences even when snow is scarce. I talked to Anja Hajnsek, a hiking expert with Hut to Hut, about her thoughts on what would-be skiers can look forward to despite these delays.
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Mountain Guide and Hiking Expert Anja Hajnsek of Hut to Hut Hiking Dolomites says:
“The winter season has become much too unpredictable. Freezing levels of around 3,000 metres and early-season snow failing to settle affects far more than ski resort schedules. Travellers are seeing firsthand how climate patterns are shifting, and many are beginning to rethink what a winter holiday in the mountains can look like.
These conditions are challenging for ski operators, but they also highlight the resilience and variety of the alpine landscape. In the Dolomites, winter experiences extend well beyond the pistes. When lower slopes lack snow, snowshoeing, winter hiking, and guided valley walks remain safe, rewarding options at elevations where snow comes naturally. These activities allow visitors to slow down, explore winter scenery, and connect with the environment more intimately.
As guides, we adapt each season by monitoring weather patterns, adjusting routes to avoid unsafe or avalanche-prone areas, and planning itineraries that respect the landscape. Sustainability is central to how we operate, and climate shifts only reinforce its importance. The mountains continue to offer extraordinary experiences in every season. Sometimes all it takes is trading skis for boots to discover a completely different side of winter travel.
Here’s how visitors can have the most fun despite the uncooperative weather:
- Prepare an alternative itinerary: Look to spending your time trying alternatives to skiing: snowshoeing, winter hiking, and guided valley walks are activities to consider.
- Read up on warming winters’ effect on mountain travel: Understand how rising temperatures are reshaping winter tourism, influencing snow reliability, and changing both safety considerations and activity options.
- Learn how to safely push past your comfort zone with expert guidance: Explore coaching, guided treks, or structured adventure programmes that help you build confidence, improve technique, and experience the mountains more boldly and safely.”
