Is Mount Pilatus Worth Visiting? A Complete Guide
Thinking about adding Mount Pilatus to your Swiss adventure but not sure if it’s worth the detour? We can help clear things up!
During our last visit to Switzerland with the kids, we spent half a day on Mount Pilatus enjoying everything it had to offer. We loved it.
From the world’s steepest cogwheel train to the gorgeous views, hikes, and other cool mountain-top attractions, Pilatus was definitely worth visiting.
Want to learn more? Let’s dive in!
Is Mount Pilatus Worth Visiting?
YES! Mount Pilatus is definitely worth a visit.
When you consider the incredible views from the top, the hiking trails, the family-friendly attractions, and the actual journey to the top in the cogwheel railway, how can you not be excited to visit?
Mount Pilatus Overview
Mount Pilatus is located about 15 kilometres south of Lucerne, making it an easy day trip to add to your Swiss itinerary.
At 2,128 meters (6,982 feet), Mount Pilatus is actually considered to be quite modest in comparison to some of Switzerland’s other towering mountains.
But let’s talk about what really makes Pilatus stand out – its cogwheel railway.
The Pilatus Railway is the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, with gradients up to 48%. Built in 1889, it was definitely a feat of engineering at the time.
The railway runs from Alpnachstad to the summit of Mount Pilatus, offering passengers some of the most spectacular views around during the ascent.
What is the Legend of Mount Pilatus?
Another interesting thing about Mount Pilatus is its folklore.
It’s said that the mountain got its name from Pontius Pilate. Legend has it that his body was supposedly thrown into a lake on the mountain, leading his restless spirit to haunt the area.
Other stories revolve around the fact that locals once believed that dragons with healing powers also roamed the peaks. This is why the symbol of Pilatus is a dragon.
Best Time to Visit Mount Pilatus
The best time to visit Mount Pilatus is from May to September when the weather is perfect for exploring the outdoors.
During these months, you’ll experience warmer temperatures and clearer skies. This, of course, is ideal for hiking, enjoying the gorgeous views, and making the most of the various attractions at the summit.
If you’re looking for a quieter visit, consider June or September, when there are fewer visitors compared to the peak summer months.
We visited Pilatus during the winter.
Winter offers a different charm with snow-covered landscapes. And while it’s great if you are into winter sports, we found many of the other attractions to be closed.
🎄 Insider Tip: For one weekend only in November, you can experience the Mount Pilatus Christkindlmarkt. As the highest Christmas market in Europe, you will find 40 beautifully decorated market stands set against the jaw-dropping background of lakes and Alps. This is definitely a don’t-miss attraction!
How to Get from Lucerne to Mount Pilatus
Getting to Mount Pilatus from Lucerne is pretty easy. You even have several options:
By Car
Drive from Lucerne to Alpnachstad (for the cogwheel train) or Kriens (for the cableway). Parking is available at both locations.
By Boat
Enjoy a boat trip from Lucerne to Alpnachstad across Lake Lucerne. Then it’s just a short walk to the cogwheel train station.
By Bus
Take a bus from Lucerne to Alpnachstad or Kriens. The bus to Kriens departs from the Lucerne train station and drops you off near the Panorama Gondolas base.
By Train
Although it does not take you directly to the base, you can take a train from Lucerne to Alpnachstad and then walk to the Cogwheel train station.
The Mount Pilatus Golden Round Trip vs. Silver Round Trip
These two all-inclusive travel options from Lucerne to Mount Pilatus make getting there a breeze.
Golden Roundtrip
The best and most scenic option to get to Mount Pilatus is to purchase a Golden Roundtrip Ticket.
This all-in-one transportation offer takes the guesswork out of your trip to Pilatus.
You won’t have to worry about researching times or reserving separate tickets for each leg of the trip.
You start with a boat ride from Lucerne to Alpnachstad, then take the cogwheel train up to Pilatus Kulm.
You then return via the aerial cableway and gondola to Kriens, ending with a bus ride back to Lucerne.
You can purchase the Golden Roundtrip to go in the direction above, or in the opposite direction, where you start with the the bus ride and end with the cruise.
💡 Insider Tip: We would recommend ending with the cruise, as you will get to the mountaintop a lot earlier and before the crowds (tip given to us by our tour guide). Besides, the cruise is a relaxing way to end the day!
The cost of the Golden Roundtrip for adults is around CHF 113.80. For children (6-15 years), you are looking at a cost of about CHF 56.90.
Silver Roundtrip
The Silver Roundtrip is the best option for getting to Mount Pilatus from Lucerne if you are looking to spend the whole day on the mountain.
The main difference is, that it skips the boat.
You head straight to Alpnachstad by train, then take the cogwheel train up to the summit.
You then return via the cableway to Kriens, followed by a bus ride back to Lucerne.
Again, this can be done in either direction.
But because you don’t have to worry about a restrictive boat schedule, you can go up the mountain as soon as the cogwheel starts running, and come down as late as the cableway runs (or vice versa).
The cost for the Siver Roundtrip for adults is approximately CHF 88.20. For children (6-15 years), you are looking at a cost of about CHF 44.10.
How to Get Up Mount Pilatus
Getting up Mount Pilatus is an adventure in itself, with a few different options to choose from:
Cogwheel Railway from Alpnachstad
The world’s steepest cogwheel railway offers a unique and scenic journey to the top.
The cogwheel railway will take you from Alpnachstad to Pilatus Kulm and operates from May to November.
Aerial Cableway and Panorama Gondolas from Kriens
The cable car ride from Kriens to Mt Pilatus involves two different cable cars. The first is a small 4-person gondola to Fräkmüntegg.
At Fräkmüntegg you will need to transfer to the Dragon Ride, which is a large aerial cableway. This will take you to Mt Pilatus
This route is available year-round, weather permitting.
And because we were visiting during the winter, this is the route our family took to get to the top of Mount Pilatus.
Driving
While you can’t drive all the way to the top, you can drive to Alpnachstad or Kriens and then take the cogwheel train or cableway up the mountain.
Hiking
For the more adventurous, there are a variety of hiking trails leading up to Mount Pilatus.
These are best tackled during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall.
Cost and Timing for Mount Pilatus
If you choose to arrive at the base of Mount Pilatus on your own (rather than with a Golden or Silver Roundtrip), you can purchase separate tickets for each segment of travel up the mountain.
Ticket prices
- Alpnachstad – Pilatus Kulm | Return trip Cogwheel Train – CHF 78 for adults and CHF 39 for children
- Kriens – Pilatus Kulm | Return trip Cableway – CHF 78 for adults and CHF 39 for children
- Swiss Travel Pass (Cogweel or Cableway) – CHF 39
The prices are dependent on whether you are buying a single ride or a round-trip ticket.
🐶 Pro Tip – If you are travelling with a dog, your furry friend will also need to pay a fare! The cost is CHF 14.00 for either the Cogwheel or the Cableway!
Opening hours
Mount Pilatus’ opening hours typically are as follows, but they can vary slightly depending on the season:
- Cogwheel Railway (Alpnachstad to Pilatus Kulm): Operates from May to November, usually from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
- Aerial Cableway and Gondola (Kriens to Pilatus Kulm): Generally open year-round. From May to October, it runs from 8:10 AM to 6:37 PM; winter hours might differ.
- Boat Ride (Lucerne to Alpnachstad): Aligns with the cogwheel railway schedule, typically from May to October.
Things To Do At Mount Pilatus
Depending on the season, there are a variety of things to do on Mount Pilatus that are both family-friendly and lots of fun.
1. Check Out the Oberhaupt and Esel viewpoints
One of the main reasons to head to the top of Mount Pilatus is so you can soak in the jaw-dropping views!
We recommend heading to the Oberhaupt and Esel viewpoints on Mount Pilatus because they offer some of the best views of the surrounding Swiss landscape.
Oberhaupt
From the Pilatus Kulm upper station, the Oberhaupt viewpoint is just a short walk from the observation deck near the Hotel Pilatus Kulm.
It only took us about 10 minutes to reach the peak, as the walkway was well-maintained and had safety rails (perfect for the snowy winter conditions we had).
There are plenty of stairs on this trail, so just be forewarned.
The incredible 360-degree views of the Swiss Alps and central Switzerland are worth it though!
Esel
The Esel viewpoint is the second-highest peak on Mount Pilatus. It can be reached from the observation deck nearest to the station.
It takes about 10 minutes to reach the summit, and the views are awesome.
Again, the pathway and stairs are well maintained with guard rails, so perfectly fine for families.
Once at the platform, you will have panoramic views of the Alps, various lakes and even the Black Forest. It’s the perfect place to take those Insta-worthy photos.
2. Hike the Flower Trail to Tomlishorn Peak
Hiking the Flower Trail to Tomlishorn Peak is a fantastic way to experience Mount Pilatus’ natural beauty.
At 3.2 km (2.0 miles) out and back, this trail offers a relatively easy hike that’s suitable for most fitness levels.
While Tomlishorn is the highest peak on Mount Pilatus at 2,128 meters, this trail is most known for its spectacular display of wildflowers.
The trail is well-marked and takes about 30 minutes one way from the Pilatus Kulm Hotel.
The first part of the trail is really easy, as it is paved and well-maintained with a safety rail.
The trail runs right along the side of the mountain and has several benches along the way where you can stop, and enjoy the epic views.
The final section of the trail is a little more difficult. The path is no longer paved, and you will need to watch your footing as it becomes bumpy with a lot of loose rocks.
There are also two sets of stairs just before you reach the peak.
At the top, the 360-degree views are spectacular!
Just a heads up, this trail will not be accessible in the winter (as you can see in the above photo).
3. Walk Along the Dragon Trail
The Dragon Trail, or Drachenweg, is a must-do trail for anyone visiting Mount Pilatus.
This 40-minute circular trail offers incredible views of the Central Swiss Alps and Lake Lucerne.
Starting from Pilatus Kulm, this easy trail is accessible and well-suited for families. It even has informational boards that dive into the mountain’s mythical past.
This unique trail has you walking through passages in the rock, which feels like you are in a dragon’s lair.
I loved the cutout ‘windows’ in the rock where you see the cable cars arriving at the station. Keep a lookout for ibexes on the side of the mountain!
And just a heads up, if you are visiting in the winter, like we were, part of the Drachenweg will be inaccessible. So the trail ends up becoming an out-and-back.
You won’t miss out on the views, so definitely don’t let the partial closure discourage you from hitting the trail!
4. Relax on the Observation Deck
One of my favourite things that we did while visiting Pilatus, was to relax on the observation deck.
Even though it was the middle of December, we had a gorgeous sunny day. So sitting on the benches, soaking in the sun, and enjoying the spectacular views was pretty awesome.
I can only imagine how extra nice it would be in the summer. You could sit under an umbrella, drink in hand, and truly soak in the scenery.
5. Ride the Summer Toboggan at Fräkmüntegg
After having the best time ever at the Imst Alpine Coaster in Austria, we were disappointed that we could not ride the Toboggan at Fräkmüntegg.
The summer toboggan is open daily in dry weather from mid-April to mid-October from 10 am to 5.30 pm. We visited Pilatus in December 😭😭
This adrenaline-packed ride is located at the Fräkmüntegg station and is definitely a must-do attraction if you are visiting with kids (especially teens).
As Switzerland’s longest summer toboggan, the ride takes you along the 1350-metre stainless steel run, filled with awesome twists, turns and dragon’s dens (tunnels).
Couple the thrills with the jaw-dropping scenery, and you have a truly unforgettable experience.
6. Rope Adventure Park at Fräkmüntegg
The Rope Adventure Park at Fräkmüntegg offers an exciting treetop experience, perfect for those looking to add some action to their Mount Pilatus adventure.
With a variety of courses at different difficulty levels, it caters to everyone from kids through to those who are a kid at heart.
The courses allow you to navigate through high ropes, zip lines, and challenging obstacles, all while surrounded by the gorgeous backdrop of the Swiss Alps.
The Rope Adventure Park is open from April to October, and kids as young as four can participate. Admission costs between CHF 21 and CHF 28 per person.
We love treetop trekking and would have loved to give this attraction a whirl if we were visiting during the warmer seasons.
7. Overnight in the tree tents
Looking for a super unique accommodation on Mount Pilatus? How about giving one of their Tree Tents a try?
These tree tents, also known as “portaledge” camping experiences, are kind of a cross between a tent and a hammock.
The tents are suspended from trees and are about three feet above the ground. They provide a cozy and adventurous overnight stay.
Located at Fräkmüntegg, the tree tents are only available from June to August, on Fridays and Saturdays, and on certain dates.
Since the tree tents are suitable for kids, you could enjoy a night under the stars with the whole family!
8. Pilu Land Playground at Krienseregg
Pilu Land at Krienseregg is a fantastic spot for families who are visiting Mount Pilatus with younger kids.
Centred around the mountain’s dragon mascot, Pilu, this free-to-use adventure playground is an ideal place for kids to burn off some energy.
It has plenty of awesome play structures that cater to different ages, including slides, swings, and climbing frames.
You will also find picnic tables, barbecue grills, a restaurant, and public washrooms nearby, making this the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
You can either drive up to Pilu Land and park in the nearby lot or take the cable car from Kriens to Krienseregg.
Roundtrip fare will cost you CHF 20 for adults and CHF 10 for kids 6 to 15.
9. Find a Treasure at the Souvenir Shop
Looking for unique gift ideas or souvenirs?
Whether you’re at the shop on Pilatus Kulm or at one of the lower stations, you are sure to find a souvenir that catches your eye.
From traditional Swiss items like cowbells and chocolates to Pilatus-specific memorabilia featuring the legendary dragon, there’s something for everyone.
The shops offer a range of products that cater to different tastes and budgets.
So whether you’re seeking a small keepsake like a postcard or keychain, or a more substantial memento like a handcrafted Swiss watch, you’re likely to find just what you are looking for.
While I grabbed a Christmas ornament for myself, the kids had a hard time trying to decide which magnet would make it into their vast collections!
10. Grab a Bite to Eat with a View
With all the hiking and fresh mountain air, you are bound to get a little peckish! Thankfully, you have several dining options to choose from.
And considering we have an always-starved teenager (Mr. Bump), I was happy to note that the food prices were reasonable (by Swiss standards anyway).
If you are at the upper station, Pilatus Kulm, you will find a small cafe right inside the station.
There, we found a good selection of snacks, drinks, sandwiches, and pastries, as well as hot tea/coffee and even alcoholic beverages.
If you head inside the Hotel Pilatus-Kulm, you will also find two restaurants (one is more formal) and a bar. These dining areas offer some pretty great views!
For a more casual dining experience, the restaurants and cafés at the mid-stations like Fräkmüntegg and Krienseregg offer a range of snacks, meals, and beverages.
These spots provide a perfect break during your exploration of Mount Pilatus, whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack, a hearty lunch, or just a warm drink.
Where To Stay Near Mt Pilatus
If you are looking to spend the night on or near Mount Pilatus, we have a few suggestions for you. These top-rated hotels have plenty of great amenities, and a couple even come with jaw-dropping mountain views!
What Is The Weather Like On Mt Pilatus?
Just like other mountains, the weather on Pilatus can change very quickly and be significantly different from the lower-lying areas. Here’s a general breakdown:
Summer (June to August)
- This is the warmest and most popular time to visit.
- Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), but it can still be quite cool, especially in the mornings or evenings.
- It’s usually sunny, but weather patterns can change rapidly.
Autumn (September to November)
- The weather starts to cool down, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F).
- It’s a great time to enjoy the fall colours.
- Be prepared for cooler temperatures and the possibility of fog and rain as the season progresses.
Winter (December to February)
- Winter sees the mountain covered in snow.
- Temperatures are often below freezing, ranging from -10°C to 5°C (14°F to 41°F).
- While it’s cold, the winter landscape is gorgeous.
Spring (March to May)
- The snow starts to melt.
- Temperatures rise, ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F).
- The weather can be unpredictable, with sunny days interspersed with spring showers.
How Much Time to Spend on Mount Pilatus?
While we only stayed a few hours on Mount Pilatus, I would totally recommend setting aside at least half a day.
This is especially true if you are visiting in the warmer months when all the attractions are open.
Spending at least half a day on Mount Pilatus gives you plenty of time to stroll the trails, enjoy a leisurely meal with a view, and explore some of the fantastic attractions on the mountain, without feeling rushed.
If you are planning to do some of the longer hikes, maybe consider an overnight stay.
As a bonus, you will be able to watch the sunset and sunrise, which are exceptionally beautiful from the mountain’s vantage points.
Mt Pilatus – FAQs
Mount Pilatus is known for its gorgeous panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and its unique means of transport, including the world’s steepest cogwheel railway and modern aerial cableways.
Mount Pilatus is ideal for those seeking scenic views and historic transportation like the cogwheel railway, while Mount Titlis is better for year-round snow activities and features like the revolving cable car.
No, you cannot drive up to the summit of Mount Pilatus; the peak is accessible via cogwheel railway or aerial cableway. You can drive to the base stations at Alpnachstad or Kriens and then take one of these transportation options to reach the top.
Mount Rigi is ideal for leisurely hikes and panoramic views. Mount Pilatus offers more dramatic landscapes and adventure opportunities.
Yes, you can walk down from Mount Pilatus. There are several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels that lead down the mountain, providing a great way to enjoy the scenery at a slower pace.
Walking up Mount Pilatus can take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours, depending on your starting point, the trail you choose, and your pace. The most common route from Alpnachstad is particularly steep and can be challenging.
Final Thoughts
We would definitely have to say, that YES, Mount Pilatus is worth the trip!
With its jaw-dropping views, thrilling cogwheel train ride, and a variety of activities for all ages, it’s a standout experience in Switzerland that you won’t want to miss.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply stunning scenery, Pilatus delivers in spades.
Don’t pass up the chance to see this spectacular mountain for yourself!
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