Parsenn

Parsenn is one of Switzerland's best-known ski areas, rising above Davos in the canton of Graubünden. It is often called the cradle of Swiss skiing, and today it offers around 97 km of slopes, linked with neighbouring Klosters.

How do you get to Parsenn?

The main access from Davos is the Parsennbahn, a two-section funicular. It climbs from the town to the Weissfluhjoch ridge, covering a height difference of 1,105 m. The nearest public railway station is Davos Dorf, an easy approach to the lower station. From the Klosters side, the Gotschnabahn carries skiers into the same terrain, so the area can be explored from either valley.

Why does Parsenn matter in ski history?

According to local accounts, the first descent in the area happened when four English tourists heading for Arosa got lost in a storm and skied all the way down to Küblis. That episode is regarded as the start of downhill skiing in the region. In 1913 Davos staged its first downhill race, and since 1924 the Parsenn Derby has been run, described as Switzerland's oldest ski race and still held every year.

Construction of the Parsennbahn began in 1931, the same year the Davos-Parsenn-Bahnen company was founded. The railway is considered the first mountain railway built with skiers in mind, and it helped set off a boom in ski tourism in Davos.

What can you do here in winter?

The area covers roughly 97 km of pistes of varied difficulty, so beginners and advanced skiers alike will find runs to suit them. The season usually runs from late November to April; in 2024/25 it ended on 21 April 2025. Check current dates and snow conditions before you travel.

What is the Nostalgia Run?

This is a route of about 12 km leading from the Weissfluhgipfel down to Küblis. Information boards along the way tell the story of skiing in the area. Depending on snow, you can ski down to Küblis or finish at Schifer. It lets you follow a path once taken by the sport's early pioneers.

Who is Parsenn for?

• Skiers and snowboarders looking for a large area connected to Klosters.
• Sports history fans who want to see the birthplace of Swiss skiing.
• Anyone who enjoys long, scenic descents from the Weissfluhjoch ridge.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Parsenn? Above the town of Davos in Switzerland, in the Graubünden Alps. Coordinates are about 46.84 N, 9.81 E.

How do I reach Weissfluhjoch? Take the Parsennbahn from Davos. The nearest public railway station is Davos Dorf.

Can I get there from Klosters? Yes, the Gotschnabahn runs from Klosters into the same ski area.

When does the season start? Usually in late November, ending in April depending on snow.

How many pistes does Parsenn have? Around 97 km of ski slopes in total.