Klausen Pass
Glarus
Klausen Pass, at an elevation of 1,948 metres, is a prominent mountain pass in the Swiss Alps that links the canton of Uri with the canton of Glarus. Unlike many alpine passes, the cantonal boundary lies below the summit, placing the peak itself within Uri. The pass is traversed by a 46-kilometre paved road connecting Altdorf and Linthal, winding through picturesque valleys such as the Schächen Valley and Urnerboden. It is closed during winter months due to heavy snowfall but remains a favored route for cyclists, motorcyclists, and hikers during the open season. Notably, the pass features the historic Bruder-Klaus-Kapelle chapel at its summit, rebuilt in 1938, and the Hotel Passhohe located just below the peak. Klausen Pass is also part of the Alpine Pass Route, a renowned long-distance hiking trail across Switzerland. The road’s construction in the late 19th century transformed the pass from a traditional cattle track into a significant alpine thoroughfare, enhancing regional connectivity and tourism.
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Tip: The best time to visit Klausen Pass is during the summer months when the road is open, typically from May to October. Visitors are advised to check local weather and road conditions before traveling, as the pass closes in winter due to snow. For those planning to hike the Alpine Pass Route, note that the hiking trails approach the pass differently from the road. Booking accommodations such as the Hotel Klausenpass in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. PostBus Switzerland offers regular bus services crossing the pass, providing convenient public transport options. Discounts may be available for group hikes or cycling tours, so inquire locally.
Interesting facts
- •The cantonal boundary between Uri and Glarus lies not at the summit but 8 km down the slope towards Linthal.
- •The Bruder-Klaus-Kapelle chapel at the summit was built in 1938, replacing an earlier chapel from 1717 demolished for road construction.
- •Klausen Pass was the site of the historic Klausenrennen hill climb race for cars and motorcycles from 1922 to 1934.
- •The pass road is part of the Alpine Pass Route, a famous long-distance hiking trail across Switzerland.
- •The Hotel Klausenpass, originally built in 1903, was replaced by a modern building in 2021 due to structural issues caused by unstable ground.
History
Originally a cattle track controlled by a customs office in Bürglen by 1196, Klausen Pass has a rich history as a vital alpine crossing.
A local legend from 1315 tells of a unique border determination between Uri and Glarus involving a race between runners starting at cockcrow.
In 1590, a hospital was established at Urnerboden to aid travelers.
The first road segment was built in 1870, with the full road over the pass completed between 1893 and 1899, replacing the earlier chapel with the current Bruder-Klaus-Kapelle in 1938.
The pass also hosted historic hill climb races between 1922 and 1934, with vintage car events continuing periodically since 1993.
Place Guide
Bruder-Klaus-Kapelle1938
A historic chapel located at the summit of Klausen Pass, built in 1938 to replace the original 1717 chapel demolished during road construction. It serves as a spiritual landmark and a symbol of the pass’s heritage.
Hotel Klausenpass2021 (rebuild)
Situated about 1.5 km below the summit, this hotel was originally built in 1903 but rebuilt and reopened in 2021. It features guest rooms, a restaurant, and a kiosk offering local specialties and souvenirs.
