The Hochpustertal has two clear seasons. Winter (mid-December to early April) brings reliable snow above 1,500 metres; the ski area is open and the valley feels lively without ever being crowded. The Italian school holidays in early January and Carnival week are the busy peaks.
Summer (late June to mid-September) is for hiking and cycling. July and August are warm in the valley and pleasant on the ridges, but afternoon thunderstorms are common — start early and aim to be off summits by 1pm. June and September are quieter and the alpine flowers are best in late June. May, October, and November are shoulder months when many lifts and mountain huts close and the weather can be poor.
The valley sees real snow even in October so visitors driving over the passes from Lienz should check road conditions.