Susten Pass
Switzerland, europe
45 km
2,224 m
moderate
June to October
# Susten Pass: Switzerland's Underrated Alpine Gem
At 2,224 meters, the Susten Pass is an absolute stunner that deserves way more love than it gets. Stretching 45 kilometers between Innertkirchen in the Bernese Oberland and Wassen in Uri, this route connects two valleys with some seriously impressive mountain engineering.
Built between 1938 and 1946, the road is a masterclass in how to tackle alpine terrain. You'll notice it immediately—those perfectly banked curves, sleek modern tunnels, and pristine asphalt that just begs you to actually enjoy the drive instead of white-knuckling it.
Coming up from Innertkirchen on the western side is where things get dramatic. The Gadmental valley reveals itself in stages: first waterfalls appearing alongside you, then the Stein Glacier coming into view (though it's been retreating, so cherish the sight). As you climb toward the summit, you duck through a quick tunnel before popping out at the pass itself, where a restaurant and parking area let you soak in panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
The eastern descent is a different kind of magic—long, graceful curves flowing through lush alpine meadows that just feel good to drive.
Here's what makes Susten special: the Gotthard Pass handles most of the north-south traffic, so this road stays refreshingly quiet. That means you actually get to experience the stunning scenery without fighting a convoy of trucks. For driving enthusiasts, that's basically paradise.
Where is it?
Susten Pass is located in Bernese Oberland / Uri, Switzerland (europe). Coordinates: 46.7281, 8.4495
Driving Tips
# Gotthard Pass Road Trip Tips
Head there between June and October when the pass is actually open—you don't want to show up in winter and find the road closed!
If you've got the time, come from the western side via Innertkirchen. Seriously, the scenery is way better that way. The views are absolutely worth taking the slightly longer route.
Here's a pro move: string together the Gotthard, Grimsel, and Furka passes into one epic loop. It's an absolute classic route that'll stick with you. The bonus? You won't be dealing with heavy truck traffic like you would on some other Alpine passes, so it's a genuinely enjoyable drive rather than dodging semis the whole way.
Road Surface
Excellent paved asphalt
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Region
- Bernese Oberland / Uri
- Length
- 45 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,224 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Surface
- Excellent paved asphalt
- Best Season
- June to October
- Coordinates
- 46.7281, 8.4495
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