8889 posts
Keep an eye on this link – http://www.pilatus.ch/en/nc/l ive/. It is definitely worth going via Kriens if the cogwheel is not operating. Do both if it is. Check the weather is clear first though.
The cogwheel to Rigi is quite tame compared to Pilatus. Still a nice scenic trip though. Rigi is more of a large hill than a mountain peak (relatively speaking in Swiss terms). 🤓
7567 posts
H Piper2 –
This link may also be helpful, although, as you note, the “mid- May” date is not yet precisely defined.
http://www.myswissalps.com/pi latus
Slowpoke
72625 posts
Thank you. Will definitely get up there one way or another weather permitting. Great forum
72625 posts
Hi Piper
Some good advice from the experts! You can find the dates of operation details and routes here: http://www.myswissalps.com/pi latus/gettingthere
Here are some additional links to help:
Hope that answers your question, and have a wonderful trip!
Maria.
7567 posts
Hi Maria,
As noted earlier in the thread, the answer to Piper’s question is still not yet available on the link you provided.
Slowpoke
15485 posts
Hi Slowpoke,
Indeed, mid-May is as precise as we can be at this time. It all depends on the temperatures and snow fall this spring. I must admit I’ve traveled to Alpnachstad once, only to find the cogwheel train to be closed. It opened later during that same vacation fortunately.
72625 posts
good morning everybody, just would like to make an additional question going to mt. Pilatus on june 5.
when buying the tickets and I am ask about the start date, is this also the date that we have to go. I am asking this due to my concern about the unpredictable weather.
that being said, is it wise to buy the tickets when in Switzerland instead of buying the tickets in advance and print it home? I am building our itinerary to be flexible in case that the weather will affect the mountain trip and we have an alternative on going to another place.
8889 posts
Not sure where you are looking at buying from but I would buy tickets for any mountain trip on the day when you are satisfied the weather conditions are favourable. Buying in advance has no real advantage because even with a Swiss Travel Pass for a free mountain you still have to visit the mountain ticket office.
72625 posts
Hi Nini,
As already said, the opening of the Pilatus cogwheel train is subject to short-term weather development and can vary from year to year. Rockoysters link will be helpful there.
I personally don’t think Mount Pilatus is the same without the cogwheel train, so I would try and make the roundtrip if somehow possible.
Best,
Steph
7567 posts
Hi Steph-
<<“I personally don’t think Mount Pilatus is the same without the cogwheel train,”>>
I share your opinion. Here are some old pictures from one of my earlier trips to Switzerland. The cograil ride leaves long-lasting memories
Also, some more recent ones, including one with clouds, as well as a nice view from Sachseln on a sunny day. And, two images of the unusual design of a switch ( US term) provided for rail fans, such as Gunzel
Slowpoke