Gemsstock rises to 2,961 metres above the old garrison town of Andermatt, and the mountain around it is the most serious high-alpine terrain in this part of Switzerland. The area covers 101 kilometres of piste across 43 runs, with 1,517 metres of vertical from the 1,444-metre base. Grades skew harder than most Swiss areas of this size: 26% beginner, 50% intermediate, 17% advanced and 7% expert. Snow averages 8 metres a year, among the highest figures in this batch. The mountain has two characters: Gemsstock is steep and exposed, while the Nätschen and Gütsch side is sunnier and far more forgiving.

Gemsstock is the draw for experts. The Bernhard Russi Run drops from the summit over the Gurschen glacier to the mid-station, and the mountain is known for powder lines such as the Felsental, Giraffe, Guspis and Geissberg. These are unpatrolled backcountry descents and call for a guide, avalanche gear and a careful read of conditions. Nätschen and Gütsch handle novices and intermediates, and the connection continues towards Sedrun over the Oberalp pass. Strong intermediates, advanced skiers and freeriders get the most from it, while beginners are better off staying on the sunny side.

Andermatt operates from 16 November 2025 through 21 April 2026, with Gemsstock often extending weekend operations into early May due to its north-facing aspect and glacier terrain. This 22-week season ranks amongst Switzerland's longest, benefiting from the resort's position near the main Alpine divide where storms from Atlantic and Mediterranean systems converge. Pre-season weekends at Disentis begin late November before full area opening mid-December. The Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn provides year-round rail access even when passes close.

Annual snowfall averages 8 metres with peak accumulation January through March, though reported seasonal totals vary by source from 4.4 to 5 metres depending on measurement location. The second week of January typically delivers the snowiest conditions with 49 centimetres falling across 3.6 snowy days. The Gemsstock's north-facing orientation preserves powder quality well into April above 2,400 metres, whilst lower elevations benefit from extensive snowmaking. Current season data shows 408 centimetres total snowfall with 120-centimetre base depth.

December offers quiet slopes and festive atmosphere before holiday crowds arrive, whilst January delivers cold temperatures and optimal powder conditions across all elevations. February brings half-term family visitors and busier weekends, particularly on the Nätschen beginner terrain. March and April provide longer daylight, softer snow and milder temperatures ideal for intermediates and spring skiing on Gemsstock's sustained vertical. The Oberalppass and Sedrun sectors receive more sunshine than the shadowed Gemsstock base.

New Year's Eve celebrations take place at mountain restaurants including Nätschen, Gütsch and Gurschen with extended sledging until 12:30am. Weekly Snownight Sedrun runs Thursdays with floodlit pistes between Dieni and Milez. The resort hosts freeride events including King of the Mountain competition, whilst the Avalanche Training Centre at Gurschen offers safety courses. Premium day pricing reaches CHF 99 during peak periods, with advance purchase reducing costs to CHF 89.

Daily snow reports at Andermatt go back to 1996, 31 winters on the books. Open the record to compare winters, lifts and piste.