Obwalden · Alpnach
Pilatus Cogwheel Railway
World’s steepest cogwheel railway
Bildnachweis: © Pilatus Bahnen AG
Summary
With a gradient of 48%, the cogwheel railway from Alpnachstad to Pilatus-Kulm is the steepest in the world. Commissioned in 1889, the railway runs through flowering alpine meadows and striking rock formations; it was presented at the World Exhibition in Paris during its first year of operation. A sophisticated technical system featuring two horizontally rotating cogwheels enables the train to climb such steep inclines. In 1937, the railway switched from steam to electric propulsion.
Key Facts
- World’s steepest cogwheel railway.
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