Grindelwald is part of the Jungfrau Region, which is made up of the ski towns of Wengen, Lauterbrunen and Murren. All together they offer 213km (132 miles) of ski runs to enjoy.
There are a wide range of pistes on the slopes surrounding Grindelwald, the majority of which cater for intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders. That being said there are some gentle beginner slopes with magic carpets. From Grindelwald you can take the gondola to either the ‘First’ or ‘Männlichen’ ski areas, or take the train to Kleine Scheidegg. All areas have runs leading back down into Grindelwald.
‘First’ is south facing and is always in the sun on a clear day, almost every run has a stunning view of the mighty Eiger Mountain too. If you’re after a snow park then White Elements at First is the place to go, whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, there are small and big jumps and a variety of boxes, bonks and rails. Also on offer is the First Flyer – a giant 800 metre zip-wire between the top and middle gondola stations, it’s free to ride with a ski pass.
Kleine Scheidegg is north facing and is on the opposite side of the valley to First. It’s in the shade for the first few hours of the day, so the snow stays in great condition. Scheidegg is the centre point of the Jungfrau Region, from here lifts and runs go in all directions easily linking to Männlichen and Wengen. Scheidegg is within easy reach of the famous Lauberhorn race course, which has been held annually since 1930 and draws around 30,000 spectators.
Männlichen is just a couple of lifts away from Kleine Scheidegg. It has two main chair lifts and a gondola. If you’re looking for wide open pistes and some gentle skiing, then definitely check out Männlichen.
Snowboarders beware –
Most local snowboarders consider the runs listed below as ‘no goes’, due to a lack of speed and needing to unstrap and walk.
First:
Run numbers 1, 8, 23.
Kleine Scheidegg
Run numbers 21(2nd half), 31, 36.
Männlichen
Run numbers 3 (2nd half), 6.
