The Passo della Furka, between Valais and Uri, is one of the great mountain passes of the Swiss Alps, famous for its sweeping view over the Rhône Glacier and its switchbacks carved into the mountainside above Gletsch.
The profile from Gletsch
From Gletsch, expect about 10.3 km and 669 m of climbing, averaging 6.5%. The road rises fairly steadily at first before tightening into narrow switchbacks in the final third, with sections around 10% near the summit, at 2,429 m altitude.
Getting the ride right
A compact or triple chainset makes it easier to handle the steeper final switchbacks without stress. The descent toward Realp, on the eastern side, is just as committing as the climb, so it’s worth keeping warm layers within reach for the altitude chill.
When to go
June to September, as the road is closed by snow the rest of the year given the pass’s altitude. The summer months offer the best conditions, with clear views over the Rhône Glacier, which retreats a little further every year.
Good to know
Gletsch, an isolated hamlet at the foot of the pass, has limited accommodation but gives direct access to other great Swiss passes such as the Grimselpass or the Sustenpass for stringing together several climbs in the same day.
