Winter is long in the valley due to its altitude, with snowfall often occuring from November, and continuing to lie on the lower slopes into June. Spring is from mid-May to mid-June when avalanches are a danger due to the melting of the snow, while autumn is from mid-September to October. Many of the valley's ammenities and services will close during spring and autumn, but the weather is generally more settled. Summer days are long and warm, with afternoon thunderstorms not uncommon.

The nearest international airport is Geneva, in Switzerland. Transfers take about an hour and there are often private minibus drivers waiting at the airport willing to add people to their existing transfer list. Within the valley there is a regular bus service between villages and ski areas.

The area is probably best known for skiing and climbing, although there is much more on offer besides. The skiing is excellent for advanced skiers, but there is little to offer beginners. Argentiere and the Grand Montets is most popular with advanced skiers, with an enormous off-piste ski area available. (Newcomers to the area should always take a guide if venturing off-piste). Les Houches and the La Flegere and Brevent lifts offer a better intermediate area, while the Aiguille du Midi lift takes guided ski tours to the top of the longest non-stop ski run in Europe, down the Mer de Glace glacier. The area is transformed by spring, with the mountainsides a riot of flower-inspired colour and pine woods. Summer visitors generally come in July and August.