×

Switzerland🇨🇭 | landmarksSustenpassglacier views, switchback roads, high-altitude tunnels | things to do and best time to go

Explore Rocca di PioraExplore Trummelbach Falls

Backpacking in Sustenpass
👌 Worth visitingunique site ranked #10
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated September 4, 2026

Everyone shows you Sustenpass as a perfect empty road with one motorbike and a sunset. That’s fantasy. In reality, this high mountain pass between Uri and Bern in central Switzerland is a paved, busy, jaw-dropping shortcut through serious alpine terrain. For backpackers, it’s a trade-off: the wow-factor is real – glaciers, tight switchbacks, and views that feel almost too big – but you’ll share it with cars, tour buses, and loud motorbikes, especially on sunny weekends. It’s not cheap to reach, and there’s little cultural depth compared to old villages nearby, but the photo potential is outrageous and the vibe, when the traffic dips, is pure high-alpine adrenaline.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Switzerland Travel Guide.


Get your Switzerland guide
118 ranked highlights, routes & tips, works offline (430 pages)
Loading the map 🌍
CLICK TO FILTER
cities
towns
villages
landmarks
national parks
hikes
beaches
attractions
festivals
regions
SHOW COUNTRY’S BESTSHOW ALL
💡 Find me the best route

✨ Why go?
Ranked #10 unique site in SwitzerlandWhat makes this unique site worth visiting

Sustenpass is not just another pretty spot; it’s a backpacker’s dream wrapped in raw beauty. Yes, it attracts crowds, especially in summer, but that’s because it’s worth it. The effort-to-reward ratio is off the charts. You’ll tackle winding roads and steep climbs, but when you hit that summit, the panoramic views of the Swiss Alps will knock your socks off.

It’s not just about the scenery; it’s a gateway to authentic experiences. You can hike, bike, or simply soak in the local culture in nearby villages like Gadmen. Plus, it fits perfectly into a broader route through the Bernese Oberland, making it a natural stop rather than a detour.

And let’s talk costs: it’s low-budget friendly. No entry fees, just the price of your journey. This is where the real magic happens, away from the Instagram hype.
Want to include Sustenpass in your Switzerland route?
Create a personalized Switzerland itinerary that includes Sustenpass and the places that fit your trip — based on your travel style, budget, and available time. Get your route in seconds.

Generate my trip

💡 HighlightsTop highlights of Sustenpass

  • The Sustenpass road itself — A dramatic high-alpine drive carved into rock with tunnels, steep switchbacks and stone retaining walls; the road is the reason the whole place feels cinematic and it’s a feat of mountain engineering linking Uri and Bern.
  • Steingletscher (the Stein Glacier) and the ice grotto — A glacier right above the pass where you can get close to blue ice and, seasonally, walk into a man-carved ice tunnel; an immediate reminder of raw alpine geology and how the landscape is changing.
  • Summit viewpoints (Sustenhöhe) — Wide panoramas from the pass crest, with jagged Urner Alps (including views toward Dammastock) perfect for sunrise/sunset shots or a lazy picnic with a serious view.
  • High-alpine lakes and mirrors — Small tarns and reservoirs near the pass (think Voralpsee and
… read more 👉
  • The Sustenpass road itself — A dramatic high-alpine drive carved into rock with tunnels, steep switchbacks and stone retaining walls; the road is the reason the whole place feels cinematic and it’s a feat of mountain engineering linking Uri and Bern.
  • Steingletscher (the Stein Glacier) and the ice grotto — A glacier right above the pass where you can get close to blue ice and, seasonally, walk into a man-carved ice tunnel; an immediate reminder of raw alpine geology and how the landscape is changing.
  • Summit viewpoints (Sustenhöhe) — Wide panoramas from the pass crest, with jagged Urner Alps (including views toward Dammastock) perfect for sunrise/sunset shots or a lazy picnic with a serious view.
  • High-alpine lakes and mirrors — Small tarns and reservoirs near the pass (think Voralpsee and similar pools) that give stunning mountain reflections on still days and make for quick, easy photo walks.
  • Hiking network and classic day routes — Everything from short glacier-view strolls to longer, rocky ridge hikes and multi-day treks that link huts and valleys; the trails let you turn the postcard views into a proper leg-burning adventure.
  • Alpine flora and wildlife — In summer the slopes light up with wildflowers and you’ll likely spot marmots, choughs and maybe ibex; great for anyone who likes quiet nature watching without huge crowds.
  • Cycling, motorbiking and seasonal character — A hugely popular climb for cyclists and bikers in summer (tough but worth it); the pass closes in winter, which transforms the place into a snowy, much quieter landscape for ski touring or snowshoeing nearby.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

Things to do near Sustenpass

Best of Bernese Oberlands from Luzern

Best of Bernese Oberlands from Luzern

5.0(121) 9h
From €805
per personViator
Paragliding Tandemflight Lucerne - Engelberg

Paragliding Tandemflight Lucerne - Engelberg

5.0(70) 2h
From €213
per personViator
Lake Luzern pick and mix Tour - Burgenstock, Rigi Seebodenalp and Luzern

Lake Luzern pick and mix Tour - Burgenstock, Rigi Seebodenalp and Luzern

5.0(59)
From €945
per personViator
Private Ski Instructor from Lucerne including Transport

Private Ski Instructor from Lucerne including Transport

5.0(40) 8h
From €725
per personViator
Birdlike Hang Gliding Lucerne

Birdlike Hang Gliding Lucerne

5.0(40) 3h
From €283
per personViator
Lucerne: City Highlights Tour with Local Guide & Photography

Lucerne: City Highlights Tour with Local Guide & Photography

5.0(41) 2h
From €52
per personViator
Lucerne Small-Group Walking Tour: History, Culture & Hidden Gems

Lucerne Small-Group Walking Tour: History, Culture & Hidden Gems

5.0(38) 2h 15m
From €65
per personViator
Heart of the Alps Private Hiking Tour from Lucerne

Heart of the Alps Private Hiking Tour from Lucerne

5.0(34) 9h
From €458
per personViator
Peak to Peak Private Hiking Tour from Lucerne

Peak to Peak Private Hiking Tour from Lucerne

5.0(21) 9h
From €560
per personViator
Trip from Lucerne to Interlaken, Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen

Trip from Lucerne to Interlaken, Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen

5.0(24)
From €305
per personViator

Ratings based on Tripadvisor reviews. When you book through this link, you support our work at no extra cost to you.

example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Switzerland
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Switzerland
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Switzerland
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Switzerland
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Switzerland
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Switzerland
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Switzerland
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Switzerland
Stop researching. Start exploring.
Discover all 118 highlights,ranked
and organized into practical routes.

Get instant access

🌤️ When to go?Seasonal considerations and timing


  • Weather: Sustenpass is a high alpine pass, so expect unpredictable mountain weather. Summer (June to September) offers the most stable conditions, but sudden rain and chilly winds are common. Winters are brutal, with heavy snow making the pass impassable for backpackers.

  • Temperature: Summer highs hover around 15-20°C (59-68°F), but nights can dip close to freezing. Spring and autumn are colder and less predictable, often dropping below 0°C (32°F) at night.

  • Daylight Hours: Peak summer grants up to 16 hours of daylight, perfect for long treks. Shoulder seasons see daylight shrink to 8-10 hours, limiting hiking time and increasing risk if you’re slow.

  • Crowds: July and August bring the most tourists, especially on weekends. If you want solitude, aim for late June or early September when
… read more 👉

  • Weather: Sustenpass is a high alpine pass, so expect unpredictable mountain weather. Summer (June to September) offers the most stable conditions, but sudden rain and chilly winds are common. Winters are brutal, with heavy snow making the pass impassable for backpackers.

  • Temperature: Summer highs hover around 15-20°C (59-68°F), but nights can dip close to freezing. Spring and autumn are colder and less predictable, often dropping below 0°C (32°F) at night.

  • Daylight Hours: Peak summer grants up to 16 hours of daylight, perfect for long treks. Shoulder seasons see daylight shrink to 8-10 hours, limiting hiking time and increasing risk if you’re slow.

  • Crowds: July and August bring the most tourists, especially on weekends. If you want solitude, aim for late June or early September when the crowds thin but the weather remains decent.

  • Seasonal Activities: Summer is prime for hiking, climbing, and wildflower spotting. Winter is strictly for hardcore ski mountaineers; the pass is closed to casual backpackers.

  • Price Fluctuations: Accommodation and transport peak in summer, especially August. Booking early can save you a chunk. Off-season sees fewer services and some closures, so costs drop but so does convenience.


Pro-tip: Hit Sustenpass in early September—fewer people, solid weather, and the alpine colors start to shift, giving you a raw, authentic mountain experience without the Instagram mobs.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: below average for travelingFEBFebruary: below average for travelingMARMarch: below average for travelingAPRApril: fair for travelingMAYMay: fair for travelingJUNJune: highly recommended for travelingJULJuly: highly recommended for travelingAUGAugust: good for travelingSEPSeptember: excellent for travelingOCTOctober: good for travelingNOVNovember: fair for travelingDECDecember: below average for traveling
switzerland-unique-site-sustenpass
© Google |

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutSwitzerland Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.
example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Switzerland
example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Switzerland
example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Switzerland
example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Switzerland
example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Switzerland
example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Switzerland
example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Switzerland
example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Switzerland
The digital guide (430 pages) contains:
✅ 118 highlights, ranked by travel appeal
✅ Optimized 5, 10 & 15-day travel routes
✅ Cities, national parks, landmarks, beaches
✅ How to get around
✅ Offline-friendly for travel without Wi-Fi
👉 Click to see all 30+ guide features

📅 Plan smarter in minutes, not weeks
✅ Month by month travel advice
✅ Festivals & national holidays
✅ Budget expectations

🗺️ Go to the right places, skip the overrated ones
✅ Honest pros & cons of destinations
✅ Top hikes, parks & viewpoints
✅ Lesser-known places most travelers miss
✅ Clear “worth it vs skip it” guidance

🛏️ Travel smoothly without rookie mistakes
✅ Best areas to stay
✅ Transport systems explained simply
✅ Common scams & safety advice
✅ SIM cards, money & practical tips

🌍 Understand the country, not just visit it
✅ Culture & traditions
✅ 52 Essential phrases & customs
✅ Festivals worth planning around
✅ Traveler-friendly historical context
✅ Insights that make places more meaningful

📱 Built for real travel conditions
✅ Fully downloadable PDF
✅ Works completely offline
✅ Optimized for phone use
✅ Useful in remote areas & buses
✅ Everything in one place
Save weeks of stressful planning
Get instant access to your full guide. 30‑day money-back guarantee.
+ Add another guide for just US$7.80

By proceeding you agree to our terms.
Sent to your inbox immediately after payment • 100% Secure Checkout
Best Backpacking Travel Advisor 2025 tourism awardBest Backpacking
Travel Advisor
2025
What others say about Take Your Backpack Guides:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fantastic, amazing amount of information!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My goodness this is amazing, it's what I've been looking for hats off too you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I think this is absolutely BRILLIANT
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Very complete and informative. It's still missing places, but I gotta to commend you
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is truly amazing, thank you, can't wait to explore it with my kids!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Awesome resource, thank you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is amazing! Can't wait to explore the ones I haven't seen
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I love this! Well done, great idea.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks for taking the time to make this gem!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This might be the best website I've ever seen.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Congratulations, and thank you so much for your work; it's incredibly valuable.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
In all seriousness I think you did a great job pointing out the important spots
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10/10 very good
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As someone who's only just starting to visit regularly this is awesome, thank you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you very much! I'm going to visit my dad, it's going to be very useful!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is really cool! We'll be travelling for the first time and this definitely come in handy.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
You are now our minister of culture, congratulations 👨‍💼
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Just wanted to tell you that this is a pearl! Going to follow your recommendations.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is so cool. I'll definitely be using the resource for my travels soon.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is very impressive! Good work.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is an amazing and informative site. Very well done!

🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas and accommodation options

Staying near Sustenpass can be a mixed bag. The views are jaw-dropping, but the crowds? They can be overwhelming, especially in peak season. If you want to dodge the tourist traps, aim for the small villages like Wassen or Innertkirchen. These spots are quieter and have a genuine Swiss vibe.

Wassen, with its charming chalets, offers a cozy atmosphere. You’ll find friendly locals and a few budget-friendly guesthouses. Innertkirchen is another solid choice, with easy access to hiking trails and a laid-back feel.

Both areas have communal kitchens and social spaces, perfect for meeting fellow … read more 👉
Staying near Sustenpass can be a mixed bag. The views are jaw-dropping, but the crowds? They can be overwhelming, especially in peak season. If you want to dodge the tourist traps, aim for the small villages like Wassen or Innertkirchen. These spots are quieter and have a genuine Swiss vibe.

Wassen, with its charming chalets, offers a cozy atmosphere. You’ll find friendly locals and a few budget-friendly guesthouses. Innertkirchen is another solid choice, with easy access to hiking trails and a laid-back feel.

Both areas have communal kitchens and social spaces, perfect for meeting fellow travelers. You’ll feel the camaraderie as you swap stories over a shared meal.

Avoid the overpriced lodgings closer to the pass. Instead, embrace the authentic experience of these villages. The real magic lies in the connections you make and the stunning landscapes that surround you. That’s what makes the journey worthwhile.
Best hostels in Switzerland


Best quality hotels in Switzerland

👛 Costs (as of 4 September 2026)How expensive it really is

Visiting Sustenpass in Switzerland can be a breathtaking experience, but it comes with its own set of costs. Here’s a breakdown to help you plan wisely.
  • Transportation: Expect to pay around €10-€30 for a bus ticket from nearby towns like Meiringen or Andermatt. If you’re driving, factor in fuel costs, which can be about €1.50 per liter. Parking fees at the pass can range from €5-€10 for the day.
  • Accommodation: Options vary widely. A basic hostel can cost around €30-€50 per night, while a mid-range hotel might set you back €100-€200. For a more luxurious stay, expect to pay upwards of €250 per night.
  • Food: Dining can be pricey. A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost €15-€25. If you opt for a more upscale dining experience, budget around €40-€70 per person. Grocery stores are a good
… read more 👉
Visiting Sustenpass in Switzerland can be a breathtaking experience, but it comes with its own set of costs. Here’s a breakdown to help you plan wisely.
  • Transportation: Expect to pay around €10-€30 for a bus ticket from nearby towns like Meiringen or Andermatt. If you’re driving, factor in fuel costs, which can be about €1.50 per liter. Parking fees at the pass can range from €5-€10 for the day.
  • Accommodation: Options vary widely. A basic hostel can cost around €30-€50 per night, while a mid-range hotel might set you back €100-€200. For a more luxurious stay, expect to pay upwards of €250 per night.
  • Food: Dining can be pricey. A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost €15-€25. If you opt for a more upscale dining experience, budget around €40-€70 per person. Grocery stores are a good alternative, with meals costing about €5-€10 if you prepare your own food.
  • Activities: Hiking is free, but if you want to join guided tours or rent equipment, prices can range from €50-€100 depending on the service. Don’t forget to budget for any entry fees to nearby attractions, which can be around €10-€20.
  • Miscellaneous: Always have a little extra for unexpected expenses. A good rule of thumb is to set aside €20-€50 for souvenirs, snacks, or any spontaneous adventures.

Understanding these costs will help you appreciate the real magic of Sustenpass without breaking the bank.


source: myswitzerland.com
⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

FAQTraveler FAQ

Sustenpass is a high mountain pass in the Swiss Alps connecting the cantons of Uri and Bern. It sits at an elevation of 2,224 meters and is known for its stunning alpine scenery and glacier views. The pass is popular for hiking, cycling, and scenic drives during the summer months.
Visiting Sustenpass typically requires half a day to a full day depending on your activities. Driving through the pass takes about 1 to 2 hours, while hiking or exploring the area can extend your visit to 4 to 6 hours. Plan extra time if you want to stop for photos or short hikes.
You can get to Sustenpass by car via the A8 motorway from either the Uri or Bern side, with the pass road open from June to October. Public transport options include regional trains to nearby towns like Wassen or Innertkirchen, followed by local buses or taxis to the pass. Note that the pass is closed in winter due to snow.
⚠️ Things can change over time, so always validate details locally before you go.

Other Swiss landmarks near Sustenpass

Explore more nearby:

  • Gotthard Pass—historic route, alpine tunnels, cobblestone road| 21 km away
  • Rocca di Piora—mountain dairy, alpine pastures, cheese cellars| 29 km away
  • Trummelbach Falls—glacial meltwater, inside-the-mountain cascades, spiral stairs| 44 km away

💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for Switzerland including Sustenpass and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all landmarks

Or checkout all Switzerland has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)
Explore Switzerland
Country photo of Switzerland
© Google Images

We 💚 feedbackWhat to keep in mind

Sustenpass is a breathtaking slice of the Swiss Alps, where the road winds through towering peaks and glacial lakes. But let’s be real: it gets crowded, especially in summer. You’ll share the views with plenty of tourists. Still, the raw beauty and the chance to hike in solitude just a few steps off the main path make it worth the hustle. Embrace the magic, but plan your timing wisely.

✈️ When did I visit Switzerland?
Being so close to my home country, and me loving mountains, I have visited Switzerland many times in my childhood during summer holidays for hiking in the Alps. One of the most beautiful countries in the world, though expensive.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Switzerland, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story
Get full country guide •
Instant download • 118 highlights • Full Offline guide