Sledding and bobsleighing

The sled is a traditional device for trips on snowy slopes and groomed slopes. Be it the simple wooden sled, the sleek sports equipment or the practical sled for the children Sleds and toboggans come in different models and lengths - for sitting or lying down. For the recreational toboggan of an adult, a length of 115 cm applies. Anyone who sleds with children knows: they quickly get tired or freeze. In this case, a suitable sled seat and a sleeping bag with warm lining are also recommended

Davos sled

The Davos sled, made of ash wood with iron-covered runners, fixed wooden construction and traction iron, was developed on the occasion of a sled race in 1883. This model is the origin of all recent sleds up to the racing bob. Anyone traveling with small children will appreciate the Davos sled

The Davoser is usually between 80 and 130 cm long and, unlike the toboggan, is steered and braked with the feet. Due to the fact that the Davos sled is slower than the toboggan, it is particularly suitable for leisurely descents with children. Due to the fact that there are also longer models, more than one person can easily ride on a sled.

Toboggan sled

Unlike "normal" sleds, the runners on toboggan models are angled up to 25 degrees and are not rigidly connected. The runners, made of a special steel, make your device fast and agile. For maintenance, there are paste and liquid waxes that are applied after use. These also serve as rust protection. Special edge sharpening sets are available for sharpening blunt edges.

To ride, you sit on the tarp, lie backward, tense your abdominal muscles, and have your feet on the ground exclusively for braking. You steer by pressing your feet on the skids, supported by pulling on the leash. Braking is done by shifting your weight backwards and pressing the whole sole of your shoe to the floor. If you want to brake even more, slide back a little and lift the device slightly at the front of the skid.

In Switzerland, two brands of sleek toboggans are best known: the Lindauer and the Torggler. The Lindauer toboggan was created in collaboration with racers and became what it is today with Jo Lindauer's years of experience

Torggler's product line ranges from recreational toboggans to professional racing sleds. Due to its sophisticated design and high quality, Torggler sleds are among the best known sled builders in the Alps. World class tobogganists trust in Torggler toboggans

Airboard

Inflatable sleds are suitable for gently sloping and less steep toboggan runs. Similar to the handy snow slides, called "Füdlibob" in Switzerland, they are the ideal vehicle on freshly snow-covered hills. Last but not least, they score points for their size and light weight.

Meanwhile, the airboard convinces as an inflatable high-speed sled. It is often referred to as a snow bodyboard. Unlike the skibob or the wooden sled, it fits into any backpack without air.

Other criteria for the airboard are good handling and high speeds. In addition, it is suitable both on groomed slopes and in deep snow

Skibob

Skibob is the right choice for you if you want to try something else instead of skiing. The two-track skibob is recommended. Here you steer with a third ski, which is connected to the handlebars

In the end, whether with the Davos sled, the toboggan or on an airboard: sledding is fun. With a simple basic equipment you are there and you can start.

Velogemel

The Velogemel can be found in the Bernese Oberland. Designed to resemble a bicycle, it can be used like a sports sled. It features a frame with a seat, runners, and a detachable handlebar. You can enjoy fast rides on the Velogemel comfortably, whether on slopes or snow-covered roads. Every year in early February, a world championship takes place in Grindelwald featuring the Velogemel.

Mountain Sled

The Mountain Sled is a sports sled designed ergonomically for young adults. It has space for a child in front of the adult, providing a wider and more comfortable ride. Instead of metal runners, the Mountain Sled features two highly durable PE-1000 plastic runners that glide better. It performs well on both fresh snow and ice, but has a downside: the wear on the runners is significant, making it less environmentally friendly. The runners can be used on both sides and can be quickly replaced.

Snow Seat, Ski Gibel, Balancer

The Snow Seat, Ski Gibel, and Balancer are a blend of ski and sled. They originated from a seat with skis and differ only slightly from each other. With the Balancer, Snow Seat, or Ski Gibel, you can zip down the slope in a dynamic carving style.

You steer it by shifting your weight, and you can even fold it up for transport. These types of sleds are perfect for long rides on wide slopes. Regular championships are held at Tschentenalp using the Snow Seat.

SNOOC

In some areas of Switzerland, similar sledding devices are called SNOOC. The SNOOC were first produced in the French Alps in France. They have the advantage that you can switch between using skis or, with a quick conversion, using the sled. Nowadays, you can rent a SNOOC in places like Adelboden, Wengen, or Zermatt.

Comparison of the types of sledges

Wood is still the preferred material for most types of sledges.

There are many ways to get to the starting point of your sledding route. Whether by train, bus, on foot, or even with a team of huskies, Switzerland offers various options to kick off your sledding adventure.

By Cable Car

Countless ski resorts prepare high-quality sledding slopes and offer a sledding ticket. With this ticket, you can load your sled onto the chairlift or cable car and ride alongside skiers from the valley station to the mountain station. Unlike skiers, who head to the slopes, you can directly access the sledding hill and enjoy one ride after another without having to pull your sled uphill.

By Train

In select locations, you have the option to load your sled onto the train and ride to the starting point. Two extremely popular areas for this are the Rigi, where five sledding slopes await, and the sledding track at Preda in Bergün.

By Bus or Postal Bus

The iconic yellow postal buses, which you can find almost everywhere in Switzerland, are also a popular transport option for sledding fun. Whether in the Bernese Oberland, eastern Switzerland, or the Valais, many places allow you to load your sled onto the postal bus and travel to the sledding slope's starting point.

A true sledding paradise is located in Grindelwald. From Grindelwald, a bus will take you to the Bussalp, where you have numerous options to choose from. One of them is a 2.5-hour hike to the Faulhorn, from where you can enjoy a 15 km descent, the longest sled run in the world, back to Grindelwald.

On Foot

Sledding is an activity that doesn’t necessarily require a long trip or a ticket. Of course, you can choose to take a winter walk and combine it with a sledding ride. It's particularly suited to peaceful forest trails, where you won’t encounter dangerous situations with cars.

All over Switzerland, there are prepared sledding tracks that can only be reached on foot. While you might not make as many runs as at a ski resort, the joy of sledding is all the more rewarding because you’ve earned every meter of descent after hiking up.

With the dog

For some, probably the most beautiful way to sled is with a dog sled. With a husky team you whiz through the white splendor in no time. Gently, the sled runners make their way behind the huskies. With professional help and well-trained dogs, you can experience a different kind of excursion on a guided sled tour.

• When sledding on groomed slopes, the early bird gets the worm. In the morning, when the slope is still mostly untouched, you'll have the best ride. In the afternoon, the slopes can often become bumpy.
• To get to the start of the sledding run in Bergün, take part of the world-famous Bernina Express panoramic train. On the ride from Bergün to Preda, the train climbs using various switchback tunnels and 180° turns. Look out the window and watch as you switch sides of the valley repeatedly.
• At night sledding on the Niederhorn in the Bernese Oberland, you can combine night sledding with a delicious fondue.
• The Light Ride night sledding is the first interactive sledding run in the world. Here, you'll be accompanied by light installations and music, and you can even earn points while descending.
• On the Gornergrat, you'll find the highest sledding track in Switzerland. It runs from Rotenboden at 2813 m.a.s.l. down to Riffelberg at 2579 m.a.s.l. Of course, you can't miss the view of the Matterhorn.
• Switzerland is home to the longest sledding run in the world. It stretches 15 km down from Faulhorn, taking a thrilling 30 minutes to reach Grindelwald.
• One of the most challenging runs can be found at Rinerhorn in Davos. Thirty partly tight turns are necessary to conquer the well-groomed track. If you're a sporty rider, you'll hit speeds of well over 80 km/h.

You don't need much to go sledding. A snowy slope is already enough. However, the range of groomed slopes is immense and if you are looking for inspiration for your next sledding trip, we have a selection of destinations all over Switzerland for you

Tobogganing Bergün

Europe's longest illuminated toboggan run runs beneath the towering viaducts through an enchanting winter landscape. You can rent your toboggan at the train station in Bergün or bring it yourself. With the tobogganing ticket you can go up to the starting point by train as often as you like and go down again on the winding pass road, which is closed to traffic

• Difficulty: easy
• Length: 6 km
• Altitude difference: 400 m
• Special: The stretch that you cover with the Rhaetian Railway from Bergün to Preda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Snow Sledding in Lenzerheide

The sledding track in Lenzerheide winds down from the Scharmoin middle station to the valley station of the Rothornbahn with plenty of twists and turns. A ride down takes about 15 minutes before you hop back on the gondola for another trip back up to the middle station. Since the track is well-groomed and safe, it's perfect for families.

• Difficulty: medium
• Length: 3.8 km
• Elevation gain: 410 m
• Special: Every Wednesday from December to March, you get the chance to enjoy night sledding.

### Tobogganing on Kronberg From the summit of Kronberg down to Jakobsbad, you'll find the longest toboggan run in Eastern Switzerland. You can reach Kronberg via the cable car from Jakobsbad, where the freshly groomed run awaits you with initially gentler, followed by steeper sections. The Scheidegg inn along the way is perfect if you need a quick snack or want to warm up.

• Difficulty: medium
• Length: 8 km
• Elevation change: 740 m
• Special note: Take a moment at the mountain station before tobogganing to enjoy the stunning view of the Alpstein range with the Säntis.

Tobogganing on Zugerberg

The toboggan run on the Zuger Hausberg can be easily accessed by the funicular from the valley station Schönegg. At the mountain station on Zugerberg, you'll find not just a wonderful view but also a well-groomed toboggan run. Plus, the Zugerberg restaurant provides a great opportunity for a pick-me-up with a tasty punch or a hot tea.

• Difficulty: medium
• Length: 2.5 km
• Elevation change: 365 m
• Special note: During the foggy winter months, Zugerberg is a popular destination for locals to enjoy the sea of fog from above and bask in the sun.

Tobogganing on Rigi

The Rigi attracts with scenic toboggan runs and winter hiking trails. On the Queen of the Mountains, you'll find various well-groomed descents. The runs are accessible by the Rigi trains, with options to arrive from Vitznau, Goldau, Weggis, or Kräbel.

• Difficulty: easy to medium
• Length: 0.6 km to 3.8 km
• Elevation change: 121 m to 538 m
• Special note: With the Rigi day pass, you can use the toboggan runs on Rigi for free.

Sledding on Titlis

At the foot of Titlis, the sledding run from Gerschni to Engelberg awaits you. In addition to breathtaking views of Titlis, you can enjoy a descent with flat, steep, and winding sections. The transport from Engelberg to the starting point is done via the cogwheel train that takes you up to Gerschnialp.

• Difficulty: easy
• Length: 3.5 km
• Altitude difference: 212 m
• Special: The cogwheel train from Engelberg to Gerschni is a historic railway that has been in operation since 1913. The cars currently in use date back to 1950.

Sledding at Elsigen Metsch

The sledding run in Elsigen Metsch near Adelboden takes you through forests and across open terrain. You won't have to get off or walk even once. The aerial cable car will then take you back up to Elsigenalp for your next descent.

• Difficulty: medium
• Length: 3.5 km
• Altitude difference: 470 m
• Special: In addition to day passes and 4-hour tickets, you can also purchase single rides on the cable car to the sledding run.

Sledding on Tschentenalp

On the local mountain of Adelboden, Tschentenalp, you’ll find wonderful sledding trails with varying levels of difficulty. The Tschentenbahn takes you from Adelboden to the starting point of the sledding run in a loop, where three cabins operate together. During peak season, from the end of December to mid-March, night sledding takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays, allowing you to glide under the starry sky.

• Difficulty: easy to difficult
• Length: total 14 km
• Altitude difference: 635 m
• Special: If you rent your sled at the Tschentenbahnen, you can exchange it as often as you like and try a new sled after each run. The selection includes six different types of sleds, such as the classic Davos sled, the fast airboard, or the unique ski box.

Sledding in Nara, Ticino

While the Mediterranean Ticino attracts visitors in summer with its palm-lined promenades and gelato, it transforms into a sledding paradise in winter. The sledding track from Pian Nara winds through coniferous forests, across snowy slopes, and through picturesque village centers. The chairlift takes you from Leontica to Cancori and then up to Pian Nara, where the downhill thrill begins.

• Difficulty: medium
• Length: total 5 km
• Elevation gain: 480 m
• Special: If conditions are good, you don’t have to stop your ride in Cancori, but can extend it by another 5 km down to Leontica.

Tobogganing Les Diablerets

The valley station of the "Diablerets Express" is not far from the village center. From here, the cable car will take you to the ski resort of Le Meilleret, where the ride starts on the closed road to the Col de la Croix. On the first part of the descent you get a breathtaking view of the Diablerets mountain massif, before it zigzags through the forest back towards the valley

• Difficulty: medium
• Length: 7.2 km
• Altitude difference: 560 m
• Special: The toboggan run is located in a ski area, but is completely separated from the skiers and snowboarders. So nowhere you run the risk of colliding when crossing a ski slope....

You can go sledding at any time of day or night. There are slopes specifically designed for night sledding. The mountain lifts operate in the evening as well, and the slopes are illuminated with floodlights.

But you can also try night sledding on your own with a strong headlamp and the right gear. We’ve put together an ultimate guide to night sledding that features 60 tracks for night sledding in Switzerland.

In Switzerland, around 7,000 accidents occur each year while sledding. More than half of these are caused by children and young people under the age of 16. So it's important to follow a few rules so that sledding fun doesn't end up in the emergency room.

• Quality of sled: Make sure your sled is in good shape, the runners are not rusted or - in the case of a toboggan - dull.
• Speed: Ride only fast enough to maintain control of your sled at all times.
• Helmet: Only about half of all sledders wear a helmet. To prevent or lessen the severity of injuries to the head, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended.
• Sturdy Shoes: Wear sturdy shoes with a good sole so you don't have problems steering and braking
• Back Armor: If you plan on taking fast-paced rides on your sled, we recommend wearing back armor.
• Bob Sled: The Swiss Council for Accident Prevention BFU recommends a toboggan for difficult snow conditions. This is considered a safe vehicle because it is easy to steer on hard surfaces.
• Skiers and snowboarders: Avoid being on ski slopes, and if you do, only on the very edge of the slope.
• Marked trails: Sledding is safest on marked trails or slopes free of obstacles.
• Two-way traffic: Select trails without oncoming traffic. Snowy roads with cars on them are not a good idea.
• Consideration: Be considerate of your fellow sledders and overtake only with sufficient distance.
• Stop: If you take a break along the way, pull over so you are not an obstacle to other sledders.

Sledding with Children Under 6 Years

Sledding can be a safe and fun experience for kids, especially when the first snowflakes start to fall, as long as you take the necessary precautions.

However, there are some rules to keep in mind to avoid any unpleasant surprises. In particular, children under eight often struggle to assess dangers in time and tend to react too late.

It's important for parents to supervise their children and ensure there are no potential hazards around. Ideally, you should sled with your kids away from obstacles like fences, pedestrians, skiers, cars, or walls. Gently sloping hills in open fields or deserted forest paths are the best options.

Moreover, children should only sled when they can independently steer and brake. Just sitting steadily isn’t enough. A helmet is also essential since falls can lead to head injuries.

In Switzerland, there are numerous sledding paths particularly suited for children. Below are four popular slopes for the whole family.

Nara Ticino

Here, you can sled under palm trees with a fantastic view. From the mountain station in Cancorí, there is a roughly 10 km long slope back to the village of Leontica. Suitable for children from 0 years Next stop: Leontica, Chiesa No parking available Prices for day pass lift: Adults 35 CHF / Kids 30 CHF

Schwarzsee Fribourg

The 300 m long sledding track in the Fribourg Pre-Alps is the perfect adventure spot for little snow bunnies. About 50 meters of elevation must be overcome, after which the sled needs to be pulled back up. Suitable for children from 0 years Next stop: Schwarzsee Hotellerie or Gypsera Parking available Prices: Sledding track free / Sled rental 5 CHF per hour

Elm Glarus

A 4 km long sledding track promises delightful sledding fun for the whole family after a gondola ride. The sledding enjoyment lasts about 20 minutes, and the middle section, which is a bit steeper, is particularly enjoyable. Suitable for children from 0 years Next stop: Valley station Sportbahnen Elm No parking available Prices for day pass cable car: Adults 36 CHF / Kids 20 CHF

Oeschinensee Bernese Oberland

From the mountain station, a roughly 4 km long slope winds through beautiful scenery past the wintery Oeschinensee. Suitable for children from 7 years Next train stop: Kandersteg Paid parking available at the valley station Prices for day pass cable car: Adults 44 CHF / Kids 31 CHF

Sledding with baby

It goes without saying that you should not put your baby on the sled alone. Special seats help your baby stay on the sled while you pull it up the hill. To ensure that nothing happens to your offspring, sled rental companies usually have child seats for babies and toddlers on offer. In addition, sleds can be made suitable for children in no time. For almost all models there are inexpensive backrests to attach. The foot bag from the stroller fulfills the same function on the sled and keeps your baby nice and warm.

With the right equipment, sledding is twice as much fun. If you don't have your own sled or would like to try out a different model, you can rent a sled for your sledding adventure. Often mountain railroads that prepare their toboggan runs offer various models for rent.

The following items are part of the equipment for sledding:

• sled, bob or toboggan
• ski suit or winter jacket and ski pants
• gloves
• gaiters, if necessary, to prevent snow from getting into your shoes
• Sturdy winter shoes with good soles for braking - no ski boots!
• Helmet and ski goggles
• Reflectors and headlamp when sledding in the dark or at dusk
• backpack with food, drinks, camera
• possibly ticket for train or mountain railroad

In conclusion, we may state: Switzerland is a true sledding paradise. Everyone will find what they are looking for here: Families with small children, young amateurs and experienced sledding professionals. The landscape also leaves nothing to be desired

In a fabulous setting, sledding fans conquer the slopes of Switzerland with their toboggans. They master the curves, shifting their weight to steer, the soles of their shoes crunching and braking in the ice.