The Dischmatal near Davos – An Alpine Nature Paradise in the Heart of Graubünden

The Dischmatal, a side valley of Davos in the canton of Graubünden, is one of the most pristine and scenically rewarding high mountain valleys in the Eastern Alps. Surrounded by imposing 3,000-meter peaks and shaped by alpine meadows, mountain streams, and ancient trails, it’s a true paradise for hikers, mountaineers, and nature lovers. The area offers excellent infrastructure and numerous rewarding summit routes.

Geography and Location

The Dischmatal stretches southeast from Davos Dorf to the base of the Scaletta Pass. It is approximately 12 km long, ranging from about 1,500 meters in elevation up to passes and summits in the Plessur and Albula Alps at over 3,100 meters. The Dischmabach stream flows through the entire length of the valley.

In summer, the valley is free of through traffic. Vehicles and buses are only permitted as far as the parking area at Dürrboden (2,007 m). From there, footpaths continue into the high alpine region.

Getting There

• By Car: From Landquart via the well-developed Prättigau Road to Davos, then through Davos Dorf into the Dischmatal. Public parking is available in Teufi and Dürrboden.

• By Train: Take the Rhaetian Railway to Davos Dorf or Davos Platz, then switch to bus line 313 towards Dürrboden.

• In summer, there is regular PostBus service all the way to the Dürrboden terminus (June–October).

Key Mountains and Summit Tours in the Dischmatal

1. Piz Grialetsch (3,131 m)

• One of the most striking and highest peaks in the valley area.

• Ascent: From Dürrboden via the Grialetsch Hut, then across boulder fields and firn patches.

• Character: High alpine, with remaining glacier fields; sure-footedness required.

2. Scalettahorn (3,061 m)

• A slender and elegant summit above the Scaletta Pass.

• Ascent: From the Scaletta Pass over rocky terrain to the summit.

• Character: Challenging but rewarding, with stunning views of the Engadin and Flüela valleys.

3. Piz Vadret (3,199 m)

• A demanding 3,000-meter peak between the Dischma and Flüela valleys.

• Ascent: Via the Vadret da Grialetsch glacier; requires glacier travel skills and short climbing sections (up to UIAA grade III).

• Character: Suitable only for experienced alpinists with full equipment.

4. Sentischhorn (2,827 m)

• A more accessible peak with outstanding panoramic views.

• Ascent: From Dürrboden via an old hunter’s trail to the summit.

• Character: Moderately difficult – ideal for experienced hikers.

Huts and Infrastructure

Grialetsch Hut (2,542 m) – SAC Davos Section

• Well-maintained mountain hut located above the Dischmatal.

• Staffed during the summer season (July–September).

• An excellent base for ascents of Piz Grialetsch, Piz Vadret, or for crossing into the Engadin.

Hiking Trails and Pass Crossings

• Scaletta Pass (2,606 m): Historic route into the Engadin; now a popular long-distance hiking trail on the Via Grischuna.

• Grialetsch Pass: Leads into the Val Funtauna and on to the Kesch Hut.

• Jakobshorn Traverse: Scenic high-level trail from Teufi over the Jakobshorn shoulder down to Davos Platz.

All routes are well-marked and maintained, with a mix of red-white (mountain hiking trails) and white-blue (alpine routes). Hiking maps and GPS tracks are strongly recommended.

What Makes the Dischmatal Special?

• Untouched and peaceful: No cable cars, ski lifts, or large tourist infrastructure in the valley.

• Traditional alpine farming: Active summer pastures with cows, goats, and local cheesemaking.

• Pure mountain summer: Blooming alpine flora, marmots, and even sightings of ibex and chamois.

• Ideal base: For day hikes, hut-to-hut tours, or high alpine summit adventures.

Explore more alpine hiking destinations near Davos:
https://www.suedamerikatours.de/alpen/wanderberge-im-raum-davos