25 bridges and tunnels to Susten Pass in the Alps

Susten Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2.264m (7,428ft) above the sea level, located on the boundary of Uri and Bern cantons of Switzerland. It’s one of the most famous Alpine roads of Switzerland.

Where is Susten Pass?

Located on the border of Uri and Bern cantons, the pass links the Reuss Valley with the Hasli Valley. Near Innertkirchen, the Susten Pass road meets the Grimsel Pass road.

How long is the Susten Pass?

The road to the summit, also known as Passo del Susten and Sustenpass, is totally paved. It’s called Road 11. The pass is 44km (27 miles) long, running east-west from Wassen (in the canton of Uri) to Innertkirchen (in the canton of Bern).

Is Susten Pass challenging?

The road is very winding and curvy, with bridges, tunnels and occasionally tight curves. It’s a pretty steep climb, hitting a 10% of maximum gradient through some of the ramps. The eastern and western approaches are approximately the same difficult with the eastern one being a bit longer but flatter. Both the ascent and descent are equally thrilling. The drive offers stunning views of the Stein Glacier on the south side. The pass is part of what’s known as the "Big 3" passes of the central Swiss Alps: the Susten, Grimsel and Furka.

When was the Susten Pass built?

The first road over the pass was a mule-train trading route built in the 17th century. In 1811, the first stretch was opened and the road was built between 1938 and 1945. Opened on 7 September 1946, it was the first pass road to be purpose-built for vehicular traffic. With its 25 bridges and 25 tunnels, it was regarded at the time as one of the most beautiful roads in Europe. A 300-metre long tunnel crosses the pass.

Is the Susten Pass closed?

Set high in the Swiss Alps, at foot of the Gotthard mountain, the pass remains usually closed from the beginning of November until June, and closed daily from 18.00 to 08.00h.