25 bridges and tunnels to Susten Pass in the Alps
Switzerland, europe
44 km
2,264 m
moderate
Year-round
# Susten Pass: One of the Swiss Alps' Most Iconic Drives
If you're a road trip enthusiast, the Susten Pass needs to be on your bucket list. Sitting pretty at 2,264 meters (7,428 feet) above sea level in Switzerland, this legendary Alpine route connects the Reuss Valley with the Hasli Valley, straddling the border between Uri and Bern cantons. Near Innertkirchen, it links up with the Grimsel Pass—making it part of the famous "Big 3" passes that every Alpine driver dreams about tackling.
The history here is seriously cool. What started as a 17th-century mule-train trading route evolved into something special. Construction began in 1938 and wrapped up in 1945, then the road officially opened on September 7, 1946, as the very first Alpine pass road purpose-built specifically for cars. And boy, did they build it right—25 bridges and 25 tunnels of engineering marvel, including a 300-meter tunnel right at the summit. At the time, people called it one of Europe's most beautiful roads, and honestly? They weren't wrong.
The 44-kilometer (27-mile) route runs east-west from Wassen to Innertkirchen on the fully paved Road 11, and it's a seriously fun drive. Expect plenty of hairpin turns, dramatic gradients hitting 10%, and some genuinely heart-pounding moments. Both approaches are equally thrilling, though the eastern side is slightly longer and a touch gentler. The real showstopper? The stunning views of the Stein Glacier on the southern slopes—absolutely worth the white-knuckle driving.
Fair warning though: the pass closes from November through June, and daily closures happen from 6 PM to 8 AM. Plan accordingly, and you'll have an unforgettable Alpine adventure.
Where is it?
25 bridges and tunnels to Susten Pass in the Alps is located in Switzerland (europe). Coordinates: 46.5025, 8.2860
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 44 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,264 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 46.5025, 8.2860
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