Things to do on Mount Pilatus

Pilatus rises to 2,132 metres above Lucerne, and getting up is most of the appeal. From Alpnachstad, the cogwheel railway climbs at a maximum gradient of 48%, the steepest rack railway in the world, taking about 30 minutes and running only from late May to mid-November.

The alternative Golden Round Trip goes up by gondola and aerial cableway from Kriens, operating year-round, and pairs with a boat from Lucerne for a full loop back to Alpnachstad. A single return by cable car from Kriens costs around CHF 72; the classic round trip including the boat runs closer to CHF 115.

The Dragon Trail, a short circular path near the summit hotel, is easy but exposed to wind. Cloud cover is common even on clear Lucerne days, so check the live webcam before buying a ticket.