Where is Klausen Pass?
Switzerland, europe
46.6 km
1,956 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, buckle up for the Klausen Pass, a Swiss thrill ride punching in at a lofty 6,417 feet! Located smack-dab in central Switzerland, straddling the Uri and Glarus cantons, this beauty throws down 136 curves as it climbs a whopping 4,058 feet from bottom to top.
You'll be cruising on Road 17 (Klausenstrasse), a totally paved path that's been charming drivers since '48. Think smooth surfaces, killer views, and a biker/cyclist haven. Keep an eye out for the historic cobblestone section near the start - it’s a little tight and twisty, but totally worth it. A few tiny tunnels will add to the adventure.
Clocking in at just over 28 miles, this east-west route links Altdorf to Linthal. Coming from Zurich? You can ditch the highway and be carving these Alpine roads in just over an hour! Expect some steep sections, hitting around a 9% gradient, but the traffic is generally light.
Heads up: this road's a snow bunny from November to June/July, so plan your trip accordingly. And forget about bringing any big rigs - longer vehicles are a no-go.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! Budget an hour to an hour and a half for a non-stop blast. You'll be snaking your way up, soaking in insane mountain views at every turn. The summit is your reward – a gift shop, snack bar, and even a public toilet! Don't miss the Bruder-Klaus-Kapelle, a historic chapel from 1938. Plus, the whole pass is dotted with those impossibly cute Swiss alpine villages. Get ready for a postcard-perfect drive!
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 46.6 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,956 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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