The Pilatus cogwheel railway: the steepest in the world

The Pilatus railway from Alpnachstad to Pilatus Kulm opened in 1889 and climbs at a maximum gradient of 48%, which makes it the steepest cogwheel railway in the world. The ascent takes about 30 minutes, the descent about 40. It runs from 11 May to 29 November 2026, first ascent 08:10 and last 17:30 (check pilatus.ch on the day). Seat reservations are for an exact departure, strongly recommended in summer, and can be moved up to 30 minutes beforehand but not cancelled. The S5 from Lucerne reaches Alpnachstad in about 20 minutes; the boat takes 70 to 90.

Opened1889

Max gradient48%

Up / downAbout 30 / 40 min

Season 202611 May – 29 Nov

First / last ascent08:10 / 17:30

ReservationExact time, movable 30 min

Insider tip

The friction with the bare round-trip ticket is the time slot: Stanislav from the Czech Republic pointed out you must reserve the exact cogwheel departure. Jürgen from Germany, with ticket and reservation in hand, had no waiting. Gina found the ride surprisingly smooth for a cog train. If you do not want to manage the slot yourself, the guided Golden Round Trip does it for you, and the Silver voucher includes the reservation.

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Frequently asked questions

How steep is the Pilatus railway?

Up to 48%, the steepest cogwheel gradient in the world, on a line that has run since 1889. It takes about 30 minutes up from Alpnachstad and 40 down.

When does the Pilatus cogwheel run in 2026?

From 11 May to 29 November. Outside that window the mountain is reached from Kriens by gondola and Dragon Ride only; see best time to visit.

Do I need a seat reservation for the cogwheel?

Strongly recommended in peak season, as reviewer Erich noted. Reservations are for an exact time and cannot be cancelled. The Silver Round Trip and the round-trip ticket include one.