Best mountain passes near Linthal, Switzerland, offer diverse alpine experiences in the Glarus region. This area provides access to routes known for their scenic beauty and historical significance. The landscape features high mountain roads, challenging climbs, and panoramic viewpoints. Visitors can explore a variety of terrain, from winding roads to remote hiking trails.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
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A challenge on a mountain bike without a motor. But the downhill trails are great. It's worth it 👍🏻
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It's an ideal starting point for hikes to the Grand Ballon, the Storkenkopf, and many more. Here you can enjoy a hearty meal before or after a hike.
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An unexpected trail but without regrets...
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Great corner with mega views
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The way up is full of street paintings from the last Tour de France stages that went up there. It's a special feeling even without all the extras and I can recommend everyone to try the climb. Once you're at the top, you have the choice between different descents. I opted for the gravel descent, which was an additional physical challenge as it was very steep and rocky. There is a lovely mountain pasture on the way down where you can recharge your batteries with blueberry cake, coffee and non-alcoholic beer (Ferme Auberge Strohberg). It's also a good place to go if you've "forgotten" your bars and gel.
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Nice pass with flat areas to bivouac.
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One of the most beautiful climbs in the Vosges and a must to ride once. My favorite side is the one from Moosch or Soultz
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rather inconspicuous col that is easily missed.
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Linthal serves as a gateway to several impressive mountain passes. The Klausen Pass is particularly significant, connecting the Glarus Valley with the Reuss Valley and offering breathtaking alpine views. The Pragel Pass is another popular choice, known for its scenic drives and cycling opportunities, especially on weekends when its eastern side is closed to motorized traffic. For hikers seeking a more remote experience, the historic Panixer Pass provides challenging trails and untouched alpine nature.
The mountain passes around Linthal are typically open from May to October. During this period, you can enjoy scenic drives, hiking, and cycling. Heavy snowfall usually closes the roads in winter. Always check local conditions before planning your trip.
Yes, several passes have rich historical significance. The Klausen Pass dates back to Roman times and was famous for the Klausenrennen hill climb races. You can find the historic Klausenpasshospiz and Bruder-Klaus-Kapelle near its summit. The Panixer Pass is renowned for Russian General Alexander Suvorov's strategic retreat in 1799, offering hikers a chance to retrace historical footsteps.
The region around Linthal offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy scenic drives and motorcycle tours on passes like the Klausen Pass and Pragel Pass. For cyclists, the winding roads of the Klausen Pass and the car-free sections of the Pragel Pass are particularly rewarding. Hikers will find numerous trails, from well-marked paths on the Klausen Pass to challenging, remote routes over the Panixer Pass. You can also explore various mountain hikes, gravel biking, and running trails in the area.
Absolutely. The Klausen Pass is a popular choice for cyclists, known for its challenging winding roads. The Pragel Pass is also highly regarded, especially because its eastern side is closed to motorized vehicles on Saturdays and Sundays, providing an ideal car-free experience for racing cyclists.
The Klausen Pass is accessible by PostBus service, which crosses the pass several times daily during the open season (typically May to October). The Panixer Pass, however, is not accessible by car and is primarily a hiking route.
You can expect stunning alpine scenery. The Klausen Pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks like the Tödi and Clariden, deep valleys, and dramatic waterfalls. The Pragel Pass provides immersive views through majestic mountains and idyllic valleys, including the picturesque Klöntalersee. Even the remote Panixer Pass, while challenging, rewards hikers with panoramic vistas.
While some passes offer challenging routes, the general area around Linthal provides numerous hiking opportunities suitable for various skill levels. For specific family-friendly activities directly on the passes, consider areas with accessible viewpoints or shorter, well-maintained trails. The high plateau of Urnerboden on the Klausen Pass, for instance, offers expansive alpine meadows that can be pleasant for families.
The Panixer Pass stands out because it is not accessible by car, making it a truly remote and wild alpine experience. It's a challenging but rewarding hiking route, rich in history, famously known for General Suvorov's retreat. Hikers can experience untouched nature and sections carved out of overhanging rock, offering a unique insight into the region's past and geology.
Yes, for instance, near the summit of the Klausen Pass, you'll find the historic Klausenpasshospiz. Along the Route des Crêtes, which includes highlights like Markstein and Haag Pass, there are renowned farm inns (Fermes) that offer opportunities for lunch breaks and refreshments.
Visitors particularly appreciate the magnificent viewpoints and the diverse routes available. Highlights like Markstein are praised for their superb panoramas on the Route des Crêtes and serving as important hubs for various tours. The scenic beauty, historical significance, and the variety of activities from challenging climbs to relaxing viewpoints are highly valued.
Yes, the region offers impressive natural formations. For example, Wormspel Combe is a gorge that provides a breathtaking panorama of Lake Schiessrothried and the Wormsa Valley, offering a superb natural setting for relaxation.


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