Graubünden is located in the south-easternmost corner of Switzerland and is the largest canton in terms of area - but also the one with the smallest population. Mathematically speaking, there should therefore be enough space for endless areas of fresh, untracked snow. In practical terms, Graubünden has access to a total of 45 ski areas. This means that some are virtually extinct. Others, on the other hand - especially those well-known in freeriding circles - are crowded and full of hustle and bustle. No matter which scenario you prefer, there is guaranteed to be something for everyone in Graubünden.
The two ski meccas of Arosa and Lenzerheide are located close to the capital city of Chur. Both offer plenty of party options and even more opportunities in the backcountry. However, those looking for solitude will find their freeride paradise in the two small ski areas of Tschierchen and Brambrüsch. There are no queues and no crowds here - but the opportunity to earn perfect turns in untouched powder with short ascents out of the areas.
Surrounded by seven ski resorts, Davos/Klosters used to be more of a ski holiday destination for the well-heeled. Probably because there are more bars and parties there than in Casablanca - and they are notoriously expensive. For freeriders, however, there are endless off-piste possibilities and, if you get up early and know your way around, plenty of untracked terrain. Known for its guaranteed snow and enormous potential, Davos is becoming increasingly popular with off-piste skiers.
Another glamorous ski resort is St. Moritz in the Engadin. Popular with the rich of our world because - hmm - everyone goes there? For freeriders, however, this place is known for its steep ski areas on Corvatsch, Diavolezza and Lagalp. When the weather comes from the south again and brings heavy rainfall to the otherwise much sunnier side of the Alps, the Engadin is more than worth a visit. The true beauty of Graubünden lies in its versatility: steep slopes lie next to gently undulating terrain and offer great opportunities; especially in the Bündner Oberland you will get your money's worth. Flims/Laax offers everything a freerider's heart desires and Disentis and Sedrun are still rarely visited due to their remote location.
The two Swedish Black Diamond team riders Martin Webrant and Reine Barkered - together with photographer Martin Soderqvist - spent their last winter in the east of Switzerland. They experienced several great freeride days in Graubünden and keep coming back. They must know why. More information about the trip can also be found on the Black Diamond ski website www.blackdiamondequipment.com