The five ski areas of Davos are the Parsenn, the Schatzalp/Strela, Jakobshorn, Rinerhorn and Pischa. The Parsenn is the best known area, almost the size of Manhattan and the major reason why Davos has become a premier European resort. The Parsennbahn, a cable railway, leaves every 15 to 20 minutes in ski season. It peaks at the Weissfluhjoch, the upper lift central of the Parsenn. Here the runs are wide open and offer beginners and intermediates a paradise for cruising. Schatzalp/Strela area, just above Davos Platz, is the least challenging in the valley. It has finally been graced with a new chair lift replacing the ancient gondola. It is perfect for those searching for a day of cruising.

Jakobshorn is the second largest area and is on the opposite side of the valley from the Parsenn. Here the trails have great pitch consistency and make use of the entire vertical. It's called "The Fun Mountain," and is ideal for snowboarding. The next area is the Rinerhorn area at Glaris, just up the valley from the main town, with 13 runs and several good advanced intermediate descents. Pischa area, reached by a short bus ride from Davos, offers uncrowded runs down a 2,230-foot vertical. There isn't a lot for an expert here. Davos has great cross country skiing-the second largest cross country ski area in Switzerland, with 75 km. of groomed trails.

Davos earns an A-plus when it comes to beginners and intermediates. This is perhaps the ideal terrain for learning to ski and for perfecting your technique. This resort has become one of the top snowboard destinations in the world. Jakobshorn is the centre for snowboard action with plenty of other action in each of the areas. There are half pipes (one for night boarding) at the Jakobshorn as well as a boarder cross park.