Famous route

Furka, Susten and Grimsel Passes

Furka, Susten and Grimsel form a loop through the Bernese Oberland, Uri and Valais. All three are high alpine roads that open only after the snow has been cleared.

Region: Bern, Uri, Valais (Switzerland)
Passes: Furka, Susten, Grimsel
Top elevation: 2,429 m (Furka)
Start / end: Loop: Gletsch – Realp – Wassen – Innertkirchen
Best season: Summer; winter closure, roughly Oct–Jun

What should you know before visiting Furka, Susten and Grimsel Passes?

Tolls and vignettes for a car: about €40 (Switzerland, Vignette). Mountain passes: Furkapass (2,429 m, usually open June–October); Grimselpass (2,164 m, usually open June–October); Gotthardpass (Tremola) (2,106 m, usually open June–October).

The summits lie at 2,429 m (Furka), about 2,224 m (Susten tunnel) and 2,164 m (Grimsel). All three close in winter, roughly from October or November to May or June.
The canton of Uri publishes expected opening dates for Furka and Susten. They can shift by up to two weeks with the weather, so check before you leave.
On the Furka the TCS lists a limit of 18 t and a ban on trailers, caravans included, and advises against motorhomes. Check the signs on Susten and Grimsel too.

The drive

The Furka road links Gletsch in Valais with Realp in Uri; near the Belvédère a short walk leads to the Rhône Glacier ice grotto. The Susten road runs between Wassen in Uri and Innertkirchen in Bern and crosses its summit in a tunnel of roughly 300 to 350 m. The Grimsel road is about 38 km long, from Gletsch to Meiringen, and passes the Räterichsbodensee and the Grimselsee. Together the three roads can be driven as a loop.

Planning

Opening depends on snow and avalanche danger. In some years Furka and Susten open only in June. The canton of Uri announces expected dates; check the Valais and Bern road services too. A rail car shuttle between Oberwald and Realp is an alternative to the Furka road. Sleeping in a vehicle outside campsites is regulated by canton and municipality, often prohibited, and never allowed in nature reserves; ask the municipality beforehand.

FAQs

When are the three passes usually open?

In recent years the passes opened between late May and mid-June and closed from late October to mid-November. Susten is often the last to open. Dates change every year, so do not rely on a fixed calendar.

Where do I check whether a pass is open?

The canton of Uri publishes opening news for its passes, and the TCS pass portal shows the current status. Valais and Bern publish road information for their sections. Dates can change at short notice, so look again on the day of travel.

What is worth a stop on the loop?

Near the Belvédère on the Furka road, a short walk leads to the Rhône Glacier ice grotto. The Grimsel road passes the Räterichsbodensee and the Grimselsee, and the Totensee lies near the summit.

How much are the tolls on Furka, Susten and Grimsel Passes?

Tolls and vignettes for a car: about €40 (Switzerland, Vignette). Estimate with typical rates; motorhomes pay more, and vehicles over 3.5 t often pay by distance.