Riding Switzerland’s Longest Summer Toboggan Run (Fräkigaudi) on Mount Pilatus

Visiting the Swiss Alps had been a lifelong dream of mine.

Not because I wanted to conquer mountain peaks, but simply because I wanted to run through and roll around in those lush green meadows.

But I had always assumed (quite rightly) that Switzerland would be too expensive for me and (wrongly) that all the mountains would be difficult to get to.

Then one day, I came across a video of people racing down a mountainside on what looked like a roller coaster.

Apparently, that “roller coaster” ride is called a summer toboggan run and there are dozens of them scattered across Switzerland.

From that moment, I knew I had to experience one for myself, no matter how difficult or expensive the trip might be.

The longest summer toboggan run in Switzerland is the Fräkigaudi Toboggan Run at Fräkmüntegg on Mount Pilatus. And surprise, surprise… it’s actually not that far from Lucerne city center and is easily accessible by public transportation.

How to get to Mount Pilatus

I had imagined Switzerland’s famous mountains would require a rental car or a long hike, but Mount Pilatus is actually one of the most accessible mountain excursions in the country.

It’s an easy day trip from Lucerne and can also be reached from Zurich or Basel in about an hour by train.

There are two ways to get up Mount Pilatus: from Kriens or Alpnachstad.

If you start from Kriens, you’ll ride a series of cable cars, including the panoramic gondola and the impressive Dragon Ride aerial cableway.

If you start from Alpnachstad, you’ll travel on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, which climbs gradients of up to 48%.

If you’re coming from Lucerne, you can reach Alpnachstad by train or, during the navigation season, by boat across Lake Lucerne.

Many visitors combine all three forms of transportation by purchasing the Golden Round Trip, which typically includes a boat ride, the cogwheel railway, and the cable cars.

It’s one of the most popular excursions in Central Switzerland and is a fantastic way to experience Mount Pilatus from every angle.

Keep in mind that the Golden Round Trip is only available when the cogwheel railway and lake boats are operating, usually from around mid-May to mid-November.

If you’re visiting during the busy summer months, it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance, especially if you plan to ride the cogwheel railway.

If your main goal is the Fräkigaudi Toboggan Run, I recommend starting from Kriens. The cable cars take you directly to Fräkmüntegg, where the toboggan run is located.

If you start from Alpnachstad instead, you’ll first ride the cogwheel railway to Pilatus Kulm, then take the Dragon Ride cableway back down to Fräkmüntegg before you can reach the toboggan.

Going to Mount Pilatus from Kriens

Since I didn’t have much time in Lucerne, I chose the Kriens route.

If you’re driving, the valley station in Kriens is easily reached via the A2 motorway, and paid parking is available on site.

If you’re using public transportation, take Bus No. 1 from Lucerne railway station and get off at Kriens Zentrum Pilatus. From there, it’s about a five-minute walk to the valley station, where you’ll board the panoramic gondola.

Because I hadn’t done my research properly, I ended up taking the wrong bus. It still got me to Kriens eventually, just by a much longer route that added at least half an hour to the journey.

Looking back, though, I wasn’t too upset about it. I got to see a little more of the quiet Swiss suburbs before heading into the mountains.

Mount Pilatus cable car ride

Because of my bus mishap, I arrived much later than expected, close to 4 p.m. At the ticket counter, I asked the staff member if she thought I still had enough time to make it to the Fräkigaudi Toboggan Run before it closed.

She said she wasn’t sure, but I could try my luck.

Not exactly the reassuring answer I was hoping for, but I boarded the cable car anyway, telling myself that the ride up Mount Pilatus would still be worth it, even if I missed the toboggan.

And it absolutely was.

The journey begins in a panoramic gondola that glides quietly above forests, meadows, and tiny Swiss villages.

At Fräkmüntegg, passengers continuing to Pilatus Kulm transfer to the larger Dragon Ride aerial cableway, which offers even more spectacular views. Since I was heading for the toboggan, I got off at Fräkmüntegg instead.

I’m not particularly fond of heights, so parts of the ride were a little anxiety-inducing. But I figured if I could trust the rickety cable cars in my own country, it would be silly not to trust Swiss engineering.

What I enjoyed most, though, were the cows.

Scattered across the hillsides below were grazing cows wearing the iconic Swiss cowbells around their necks. Every step they took created a gentle chorus of clinks and chimes that drifted up toward the gondola.

Fräkigaudi toboggan run

The Fräkigaudi Rodelbahn, is the longest summer toboggan run in Switzerland, stretching 1,350 meters (4,429 feet) down the mountainside at Fräkmüntegg.

Instead of rails like a roller coaster, you ride in a wheeled sled that runs along a curved steel track.

A hand brake beneath the seat lets you control your own speed, so you can take it easy or pick up the pace if you’re feeling brave. Two-person sleds are also available for adults riding with young children.

From the Fräkmüntegg cable car station, it’s about a five-minute uphill walk to the start of the ride. By this point, I was practically sprinting with my backpack, convinced I was going to miss it after my bus detour.

Thankfully, I had worried for nothing.

When I reached the entrance, the staff told me they weren’t in any hurry to go anywhere. There were still several people waiting in line, so I had plenty of time to buy my ticket and store my belongings in one of the lockers.

I had been looking forward to filming the ride like the video I saw online. But just as I was about to close my locker, I noticed a sign that immediately crushed those plans:

Unfortunately, cameras of any kind are prohibited on the Fräkigaudi Toboggan Run. Mine was a tiny GoPro knockoff that probably would’ve gone unnoticed tucked away in my pocket, but I wasn’t about to test my luck.

The rule exists for good reason. A dropped camera or phone could become a serious hazard for everyone behind you. It would also be frustrating for other riders if people kept slowing down or stopping to take photos.

Other prohibited items and behaviors include:

• Two adults or two children sharing the same sled
• Bags or backpacks
• Alcohol or drugs
• Skirts
• Riding excessively slowly
• Stopping on the track
• Failing to brake at the finish

Before setting off, the staff explain the safety rules and demonstrate how to use the brake. The entire course is monitored, and by purchasing a ticket, you agree to follow the operating rules.

While the operators place a strong emphasis on safety, you’re ultimately riding at your own risk, so it’s important to follow the instructions carefully.

Despite being a complete scaredy-cat, I didn’t find the ride nearly as terrifying as I’d imagined.

The sled was surprisingly easy to control, and I spent most of the ride at a speed I was comfortable with. Since there weren’t many riders behind me, I never felt pressured to go faster than I wanted.

Just remember not to ride too fast, too slowly, or too close to the sled in front of you. If your actions cause an accident, you may be held responsible for the consequences.

The ride itself is an absolute blast. Along the way, you’ll race through sweeping curves, steep drops, tunnels carved to resemble dragon dens, and two built-in jumps before reaching the bottom.

Once the ride is over, a lift gently pulls both you and your sled back up to the starting point. I used the opportunity to enjoy the fantastic alpine scenery around me.

After dreaming about visiting the Swiss mountains for so many years, it felt surreal to finally be there.

Best time to visit Mount Pilatus

Mount Pilatus is a year-round destination, although the experience changes significantly with the seasons.

Their website has a live webcam showing the current weather conditions on the mountain and which facilities are open.

Cable cars, the cogwheel railway, and outdoor attractions may close temporarily due to weather conditions.

If you’re visiting in summer (roughly May to October), you’ll have access to hiking trails, the Fräkigaudi summer toboggan run, the rope park, and other outdoor activities.

This is the best time to experience the mountain’s lush green landscapes and panoramic views.

During winter (around November to April), Mount Pilatus transforms into a snowy playground. Depending on conditions, you can enjoy winter hiking, snowshoeing, sledding, festive events, and even a fondue gondola experience.

The famous cogwheel railway closes for the winter season, typically from mid-November until mid-May, while the aerial cableways continue operating (weather permitting).

Best time to ride the Fräkigaudi Toboggan Run

The Fräkigaudi Toboggan Run typically operates daily from mid-April until late October, depending on weather conditions (check out their website for exact dates).

Because the track closes during rain or when it’s wet, it’s a good idea to check the forecast before heading up the mountain.

The busiest months are June through August, when school vacations are in full swing.

If you prefer shorter lines and a quieter experience, consider visiting in April, May, September, or October. You’ll usually enjoy the same beautiful scenery with fewer people.

If possible, arrive in the morning, especially during weekends and holidays.

The toboggan can develop long queues on busy days, and arriving early also gives you plenty of time to explore the rest of Mount Pilatus before the last cable cars head back down.

How much does the Mount Pilatus toboggan cost?

The total cost depends on how you choose to get to Fräkmüntegg.

To ride the Fräkigaudi Toboggan Run, you’ll need two separate tickets: one for the mountain transportation (cable car and/or cogwheel railway) and another for the toboggan ride itself.

Since ticket prices change from time to time, I recommend checking the official Mount Pilatus website for the latest fares, operating hours, and any seasonal promotions.

If you’re traveling with a Swiss Travel Pass, Eurail Pass, or Interrail Pass, you’re eligible for discounted fares on the mountain transportation. The Fräkigaudi Toboggan Run, however, requires a separate ticket.

And if you’re planning to experience the cable car, the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, and the boat ride across Lake Lucerne, consider purchasing the Golden Round Trip ticket. It combines all of these into one scenic journey.

Cable car ride (Kriens – Fräkmüntegg – Kriens)

• Adults: CHF 46.00
• Children (6 – 16 y.o.): CHF 23.00

Frakigaudi Summer Toboggan

Single-ride tickets

• Adults: CHF 9.00
• Children (8 – 16 y.o.): CHF 7.00
• Children (6-7 y.o.): CHF 5.00
• Chidlren (2-5 y.o.): Free

Children aged 8 and above may ride on their own, while those under 8 must share a sled with an accompanying adult aged 16 or older.

Other things to do on Mount Pilatus

➤ Complete a rope park challenge

If speeding down the mountain on a toboggan isn’t enough excitement, head over to Seilpark Pilatus, the largest rope park in Central Switzerland.

Located at Fräkmüntegg, the park features ten courses of varying difficulty with rope bridges, swinging logs, zip lines, ladders, and suspended platforms.

There’s even a separate course designed especially for younger children, making it a fun activity for families.

Safety equipment and a briefing are included with your admission.

➤ Ride the Dragon Glider zipline

If you’ve ever wondered what it might feel like to fly over the Swiss Alps, the Dragon Glider is about as close as you’ll get.

Suspended beneath a steel cable, you’ll glide through the forest while enjoying sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.

It’s a great option if you want a little thrill without committing to full-on paragliding.

➤ Hike to the summit

Several well-marked routes begin near Hotel Pilatus-Kulm and range from easy strolls to slightly more challenging walks.

One of the most popular is the hike to Tomlishorn, the highest point on Mount Pilatus at 2,128 meters (6,982 feet). The trail takes around 40 minutes each way and follows a paved path with incredible views over the surrounding Alps.

➤ Walk the Flower Trail

If you’re visiting during summer, the Flower Trail is worth exploring. Information boards along the route introduce the alpine plants that thrive in the harsh mountain environment.

Depending on the season, you’ll see colorful wildflowers blooming among the rocky slopes, including several rare species found only at higher elevations.

➤ Stay overnight at the summit

Most visitors only spend a few hours on Mount Pilatus before returning to Lucerne, but you can also spend the night at Hotel Pilatus Kulm or Bellevue Hotel.

Staying overnight lets you experience the mountain after the day-trippers have left, as well as sunrise over the Alps the following morning.

It’s certainly a splurge, but can be one of the most memorable ways to experience Mount Pilatus.

➤ Eat Swiss food with a view

After working up an appetite, reward yourself with a meal overlooking the Alps. Mount Pilatus has several restaurants and cafés, ranging from casual self-service dining to full-service restaurants.

If it’s your first trip to Switzerland, I’d definitely recommend trying a traditional cheese fondue while you’re here.

Additional tips for visiting Mount Pilatus

• If you’re visiting during the summer or on weekends, try to arrive as early as possible. The cable cars and attractions can get busy later in the day, especially during school holidays.
• All transportation systems on Mount Pilatus close by 5:30 p.m., so plan to start heading down by around 4:00 p.m. The earlier you arrive, the more you’ll be able to enjoy the mountain.
• If possible, book your tickets online in advance. During peak season, popular time slots and the Golden Round Trip can sell out.
• Check the weather forecast before you go. Mountain weather can change quickly, and attractions like the Fräkigaudi Toboggan Run close when it rains or if conditions are considered unsafe.
• Mount Pilatus is significantly cooler than Lucerne, even in the middle of summer. Bring a light jacket or sweater, especially if you plan to spend time at Pilatus Kulm.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes. Although you don’t need to hike to enjoy Mount Pilatus, you’ll still do quite a bit of walking between stations, viewpoints, and attractions. It’s also about a five-minute uphill walk from the Fräkmüntegg station to the toboggan entrance.

* This post was originally published in 2019 and has been periodically updated to reflect the most current travel information.