From Andermatt, Oberalppass climbs steadily up to the border between Uri and Graubünden, on a route that runs alongside a good stretch of the famous Glacier Express railway.
A steady climb from Andermatt
It’s about 10 km for 610 m of elevation gain, averaging 6%, with no extreme sections. The summit tops out at 2,044 m, amid alpine pastures and mountain lakes, with open views over the Saint-Gotthard massif.
A pass at the crossroads of great Uri climbs
Andermatt serves as the starting point for several major neighboring passes, including the Furka and the Gotthard, making Oberalppass a natural stop for cyclists stringing together multiple climbs in the region.
How to approach the ride
The steady gradient allows a sustained pace throughout, with no brutal ramps to manage, making it an approachable climb for anyone getting started with the great Swiss passes.
When to climb it
June to September, as the road stays closed or snow-covered for much of the year given the altitude, with snow possible even at the start and end of the season.
Good to know
The pass links easily with a descent toward Sedrun and Disentis on the Graubünden side, or with a return to Andermatt to continue on to the Furka or Gotthard.
