Mount Pilatus is a tiny paradise towering over Lucerne that offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Alpine peaks of central Switzerland. It is also known as the most popular hiking destination in Switzerland. Though the climb is steep and difficult, trekkers are rewarded with the most amazing sight of Lake Lucerne, nestled into the Swiss Alps from the top.
You can enjoy many activities at the top of the mountain, such as visiting the observation deck or relaxing in the cafes or restaurants with a breathtaking views. If you feel a little more adventurous, you can also explore the hiking trails and reach smaller peaks at the top.
Info on Timings & Tickets
Mount Pilatus is open all year round and can be reached by hiking, cable cars, gondolas, and cogwheel trains. The schedule of these transportation mediums to Mount Pilatus varies based on seasonal circumstances. It also takes about 5-6 hours for a day trip to Mount Pilatus and nearby places in Lucerne.
The cable cars and gondolas are available throughout the year and runs daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. However, they are closed for a short maintenance break from the end of October to early November. The cogwheel train meanwhile is only available for half a year, from the end of May to mid-November. The first ride to the hills is at 8:10 AM, and the last ride back is at 5:45 PM.
The best time to visit Mount Pilatus is between June and September, as the weather is quite pleasant. Plan your visit early in the morning to avoid long queues and crowds at the destination.
If you choose a cableway, you will first get to ride two panoramic gondolas from Kriens and will pass two mountain stations, one at Krienseregg and the other at Frakmuntegg. From the latter, you will board a cableway to the top of Mt. Pilatus, also known as the Dragon Ride. The round trip cost CHF 72 for an adult and CHF 36 for children between the ages of 6 to 16. You can book your tickets online here.
Another exciting way to go to Mt. Pilatus is taking the cogwheel train, which takes about 30 minutes to reach the top. It is also the steepest cogwheel railway in the world. You can book the Silver Round Trip, which includes a cogwheel journey from Lucerne railway station, a return with cableway and gondolas to Kriens, and then a bus to Lucerne. The Silver Round Trip costs CHF 85 for adults and CHF 42 for children.
There is also the Golden Round Trip that combines the cogwheel train and cable cars with a scenic boat ride on Lake Lucerne. It costs CHF 103 for adults and CHF 52 for children. Interestingly, a trip to Mount Pilatus is free for Swiss Travel Pass holders.
How to Reach, Address & Phone
There are two ways to reach Mt. Pilatus – one via Kriens and the other from Alpnachstad. It is easier from Kriens as it is closer to Zurich and takes about 45 minutes by car. There are also regular bus routes from Lucerz train station to Kriens.
By car, it takes about an hour to reach Alpnachstad from Zurich. Taking a train to Alpnach train station will take 22 minutes and run every 30 minutes.
You can connect with Pilatus-Bahnen AG if planning a trip to the exotic mountain. The company, which handles the cogwheel railway, gondolas and cable ways, has its address at Schlossweg 1, 6010 Kriens. You can also call +41 (0) 41 329 11 11 or write to [email protected].
Things to Do in and Around
After completing a day trip to the top of Mt. Pilatus, you can spend the evening in the beautiful Lucerne city. Lucerne is home to some of the most popular tourist attractions in Switzerland.
Take a walk through the Old Town and wander along the town’s medieval walls. Visit churches, towers, and town halls while wandering around the city. You can also stroll at the famous Chapel Bridge, the largest wooden covered bridge in Switzerland, or experience the magical sunset against the backdrop of scenic Alpine peaks from a cruise or ferry ride on Lake Lucerne.
