The best off-piste runs in Grindelwald, shared by a local mountain guide

By Rinaldo Borra, IFMGA mountain guide

For more than 20 years, I’ve been living and guiding out of Grindelwald and Mürren. These mountains are my backyard — and every winter still brings something new. From mellow early-season tree skiing to steep glacier descents beneath the Eiger North Face, Grindelwald offers a lifetime of freeride lines.

Here are a few of my favorite off-piste ski runs in Grindelwald — lines that capture what makes this valley so special.

Lauberhorn Freeride – Eiger North Face Views

A classic warm-up for the season, with unbeatable scenery.

How to reach it

Take the Eiger Express gondola up to Eigergletscher and traverse toward the Lauberhorn area.

Terrain

Mellow, rolling slopes above Wengen, surrounded by the towering walls of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

Why it’s special

You get world-class scenery and space to move. It’s one of my go-to early season runs — few people around and a great way to get the legs warmed up in powder with that unmistakable Eiger view.

Pro tip

Best early in the season before Christmas, when the snow line is lower and crowds haven’t yet arrived.

Eigergletscher – White Hare Line

A serious descent for confident skiers — steep, committing, and unforgettable.

How to reach it

From Eigergletscher, hike up for about 20 minutes toward the ridge below the Eiger North Face.

Terrain

A serious line with rocks, exposure, and avalanche terrain. It’s steep and requires solid conditions and experience.

Why it’s special

There’s nothing quite like skiing powder directly in front of the Eiger’s North Face. The setting alone makes it unforgettable.

Pro tip

Wait for a stable snowpack. The approach can get wind-affected and the ridges often load up. Only go when the avalanche hazard is moderate or better.

Männlichen Summit

A relaxed, scenic line that’s perfect for the first powder turns of the winter.

How to reach it

Take the Männlichen gondola up from the valley and start from the summit.

Terrain

Mellow, easy skiing close to the treeline — playful terrain with plenty of options for early-season laps.

Why it’s special

It’s safe, scenic, and usually has good snow before the high alpine terrain fills in. A great warm-up day or bad-weather option.

Pro tip

Stay clear of the wildlife zones and watch out for the fences used for cows. The trees below offer fun skiing when visibility is low.

Lauberhorn Into Wengen

A Grindelwald classic that links freeride turns with World Cup history.

How to reach it

From the Eiger Express toward the Lauberhorn area, drop in toward Wengen following the off-piste terrain beside the World Cup downhill course.

Terrain

Classic freeride terrain — rolling slopes with good spacing and plenty of vertical down into the valley.

Why it’s special

You’re skiing next to the legendary Lauberhorn World Cup track, surrounded by the Bernese Alps. Few runs combine such history with such views.

Pro tip

Best early in the season, before Christmas, when snow coverage is solid down to the valley.

First – The Sunny Side of Grindelwald

When the weather turns, this is where I head — trees, light, and easy access.

How to reach it

Take the First gondola up and head toward Grosse Scheidegg.

Terrain

Easy, safe terrain with good tree skiing and plenty of off-piste lines close to the lifts.

Why it’s special

The sunny side of Grindelwald is perfect for early-season powder days and storm skiing. It’s playful, scenic, and quick to access.

Pro tip

When the alpine zones are wind-affected or unstable, this is one of the safest bets for good snow and visibility.

About Me

I’ve been guiding and skiing in the Jungfrau region for more than two decades. From freeride to ski touring, the Grindelwald area offers endless variation — and every run on this list is one I still look forward to every season.

If you’re coming to Grindelwald and want to explore these lines safely, I’m happy to guide you. See you soon!