Sledging in Davos Klosters: Best Toboggan Runs & Night Sledging Guide

Sledging is woven into the very fabric of Davos Klosters – after all, the world’s first official toboggan race was held here in 1883, giving birth to the legendary handcrafted ash-wood «Davos Sledge». Today, the valley boasts more than 15 kilometres of meticulously groomed sledging runs: from the thrilling, high-speed 3.5-kilometre descent at Rinerhorn to the scenic, gentle turns of the historic Schatzalp and the enchantment of floodlit night sledging under the alpine stars. This comprehensive guide compares every toboggan track in the region, details rental options and lift passes, and provides essential mountain safety advice for families with children.

Comparing the Top 4 Sledging Runs in Davos Klosters

Not every sledging trail in the valley suits every ability. While Rinerhorn demands athletic control and sharp cornering, Schatzalp offers a relaxed, leisurely glide perfect for families with young children.

1. Rinerhorn: The Fast-Paced Alpine Classic (3.5 km)

The toboggan run on Rinerhorn is the undisputed favourite for thrill-seekers. Starting right at the Jutz top gondola station (2,053 m above sea level), the track winds for 3.5 kilometres through 33 banked curves down through the mountain forest to the valley station in Davos Glaris.

• Best For: Teenagers, adventurous adults, and families with children aged 8–10 and older.
• Safety Feature: The track is completely separate from the ski slopes, so you do not share it with skiers. High-risk curves are fortified with padded safety nets.

2. Schatzalp: The Historic «Magic Mountain» Run (2.8 km)

Stepping into the literary world of Thomas Mann’s The Magic Mountain: The historic funicular railway whisks guests from central Davos Platz up to the sunny Schatzalp plateau (1,861 m) in just 4 minutes.

• Best For: Families with toddlers, grandparents, and anyone seeking an enjoyable, relaxed glide without high speeds.
• The Route: Over 2.8 kilometres, the wide, well-maintained trail curves gently through protected pine woods back to Davos Platz. The track is illuminated every evening until 11:00 PM.

3. Madrisa to Saas: The 8.5 km Mountain Marathon

For those who want an extended half-day expedition: From the Madrisa top station, a groomed winter hiking and toboggan path descends 8.5 kilometres into the idyllic farming village of Saas in Prättigau.

• Logistics: Once in Saas, the Rhaetian Railway (RhB) or PostBus brings sledgers back to Klosters Dorf in a few comfortable minutes.

For families we do recommend this descent. The bus stop in Saas sits opposite the end of the sledge run, so the way back is not complicated. Check the bus times before you set off and you will not be standing around at the bottom.

Night Sledging on Rinerhorn: Floodlights, Fondue & Alpine Magic

Night sledging at Rinerhorn is the most popular evening activity in Davos Klosters:

• When: Every Wednesday and Friday evening from 07:00 PM to 10:30 PM (throughout the winter season from late December to March).
• The Experience: The entire 3.5 km run is brightly illuminated with floodlights. The crisp night air firms up the snowpack, making for swift, smooth glides beneath the star-studded Grisons sky.
• The Traditional Fondue: Between runs, sledgers gather at the base station restaurant. A bubbling Swiss cheese fondue made from local alpine cheese, paired with crusty bread and regional wine, completes the quintessential Swiss winter night.

Tip for Corporate Groups & Private Parties: Ride and Smile provides private guided night sledging excursions including VIP guides, headlamps, and reserved mountain hut dinners. Learn more about our Events & Concierge Service.

Sledge Rental in Davos Klosters: Models, Prices & Rental Shops

There is no need to travel with your own sledge. Base lift stations and specialized sports shops stock hundreds of rental sledges daily.

Traditional Davos Sledge vs. Modern Alpine Toboggan (Rodel)

1. The Traditional Davos Wooden Sledge: Built with solid ash timber and iron runners. It glides steadily in a straight line and is steered and braked primarily with your boots in the snow. Best for relaxed riding on Schatzalp and with young children.
2. The Modern Sports Toboggan (Rodel): Features angled runners and a flexible webbed seat. Steered intuitively by shifting body weight and pulling the steering leash, without dragging your heels. Reduces friction and enables significantly faster, controlled cornering on the Rinerhorn run.

Lift Ticket & Rental Categories Overview

Note: Up-to-date ticket rates and seasonal passes are published directly at the mountain railway ticket desks across Davos Klosters and Schatzalp. Which ascent is already covered by which pass is set out in our overview of mountain railway passes and trail maps – including why the ski pass is not valid on the Schatzalp.

Sledging Safety Rules: What Every Rider Must Know

Sledging is frequently underestimated as a harmless children’s pastime – in reality, toboggans on the Rinerhorn track easily reach speeds between 30 and 50 km/h. Our instructors and guides advise following these safety rules:

1. Wear a Ski Helmet & Goggles: Never sledge without a certified helmet. Goggles are essential: kicked-up snow from sledges ahead will otherwise blind you in fast curves.
2. Sturdy Winter Boots with Deep Tread: Never wear ski boots! Wear warm, waterproof winter hiking boots with aggressive rubber soles. On icy tracks, strap-on ice spikes (microspikes) provide outstanding braking power.
3. Mastering the Braking Technique: To brake, place both feet flat on the snow close to the runners and lean back. For an emergency stop, pull up firmly on the front steering rope while digging your heels hard into the snow.
4. Maintain Safe Distances: Keep at least 10 to 15 metres behind the sledge in front. Never stop in blind corners. If you take a tumble, clear the track immediately.
5. Protecting Young Children: Children under 6 should always sit in front of an adult between their knees. For toddlers, request a wooden sledge fitted with a secure backrest.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Sledging in Davos

Can I book sledges in advance?

On standard days, ample sledges are available at the base stations. For popular night sledging sessions on Rinerhorn or for private groups of 8+ people, advance reservation through the mountain railways or Ride and Smile is strongly recommended.

Does a standard ski pass cover sledging?

Yes. If you hold a valid multi-day Davos Klosters Mountains ski pass, daytime rides on the Rinerhorn gondola are included. However, night sledging requires a separate evening ticket.

Is there an age restriction for children?

On the gentle Schatzalp run, toddlers aged 2–3 can enjoy sledging comfortably with their parents using a backrest. On the steeper Rinerhorn track, we recommend that children only steer their own sledge from age 8 to 10.

What if someone in our group doesn’t ski?

Sledging is the ultimate alternative! While family members attend ski lessons on Madrisa or Parsenn, non-skiers can spend a glorious day sledging and sunbathing on Schatzalp. Combining ski lessons with sledging days also works for children who have not yet settled on skis or a board.

Book Your Ultimate Alpine Winter Experience

Looking to make the most of your family holiday or group trip to Switzerland? Ride and Smile provides certified private ski instruction, kids’ ski camps, and guided private night sledging events:

• Kids Ski Lessons: Children’s Ski School at Madrisa Land
• Private Night Sledging & Corporate Concierge: Inquire Events & Concierge
• Contact Us: info@ride-and-smile.ch | +41 81 543 10 87