Furka Pass in Switzerland 2025

Furka Pass is one of the highest in Switzerland, spread and situated between the cantons of Valais and Uri. With a maximum elevation of 7,976 feet (2.431 m) above sea level, it offers the most iconic Swiss Alps driving experience. The pass connects Gletsch in Valais with Realp in Uri, being one of Switzerland's highest paved roads.

When is Furka Pass open

Furka Pass is usually open from June to mid-October. However, the exact date of opening is hard to predict since it depends on snowmelt in alpine areas. Check the weather conditions at Furka Pass before planning your trip. You can also see the status and latest conditions for this area on the webcam.

Furka Car Train

In the winter, Furka Pass road is closed, and your car can be transported by train in the Furka Base Tunnel, which links Realp and Oberwald. Furka Car Train operates all year round, and the trip takes just 15 minutes. The train departures are frequent: every 30 minutes from Friday to Monday and every hour from Tuesday through Thursday. However, driving through the path in the summer is a much more satisfying experience.

Furka Pass Views

The road trespassing Furka Pass was built in 1867. It goes along the steam railway over the pass, and the picturesque train traveling through the mountainside could be a great picture to remember. Furka Pass was featured in a famous car chase scene in "Goldfinger," a James Bond movie of 1964.

One of Furka Pass's highlights is the Rhone Glacier's panorama with a picturesque ice grotto. Visitors can park and enter the glacier through the 328-foot (100-m) tunnel. Unfortunately, due to global warming, the glacier shrinks every year.

Another landmark in the area is Hotel Belvédère, one of the most iconic Alpine Swiss hotels located on the edge of the Rhone Glacier. This unique property was constructed in 1882 at an elevation of 7,969 feet (2,429 m).

Where to stay

Unfortunately, you can't stay at Hotel Belvédère with balconies overlooking the glacier since it closed in 2015. However, you can find a wide range of accommodations nearby in Valais. Obergoms is the closest town with a few hotels. But if you are willing to drive further, you can reach the historic town of Brig with its beautiful old quarter and the Stockalper Palace.

History

This pass was already known in Roman times, but The Furka Pass, together with the Oberalp Pass, was a cross-alpine connection from west to east, facilitating various trade exchanges between Valais, Uri, and Graubünden. Over time, more and more important goods, such as salt, wine, furs, and grain, were transported along this road.

The construction of the Furka railway began in 1911, and it took 14 years to complete. However, the residents of this area could use the railway only during the summer. In 1982, the Furka base tunnel was opened, making it possible to travel in the area even in winter.