Furka Pass by motorbike.
By Edoardo · published October 29, 2026
In short
The Furka Pass (2,429 m) links Gletsch, in the canton of Valais, with Realp, in the canton of Uri. The road is seasonal and closes in winter; since 1982 the Furka Base Tunnel has carried the railway beneath the pass.
Updated October 2026What it is like to ride.
From Gletsch the road climbs towards the Hotel Belvédère, next to the Rhône Glacier, then reaches the pass and drops down to Realp. Gletsch is also where the Grimsel starts: with the Grimsel and the Susten, the Furka makes a classic loop through Valais, Bern and Uri.
What to see.
Near the western summit stands the Hotel Belvédère and, a short walk away, the Rhône Glacier ice grotto: the glacier moves 30–40 metres a year, so the ice tunnel is recarved every year. One bend is signed «James Bond Strasse», with a small viewpoint car park: Goldfinger was filmed here.
Useful links.
Links to official external sites, checked in October 2026.
On our routes.
It is not on one of our routes: you will find it, with the passes around it, in the Alpine passes atlas.
Frequently asked questions.
- How high is the Furka Pass?
- The Furka Pass lies at 2,429 metres and links Gletsch (Valais) and Realp (Uri).
- Is the Furka Pass open in winter?
- No: it is closed in winter. Recent dates and the official sites for today's status are on the page Passes open and closed.
- Which routes cross the Furka Pass?
- It is not on one of our routes yet.
- Can you drive the Furka Pass by car?
- Yes: the road is paved and open to traffic. In summer, set off early in the morning to avoid traffic and cyclists.
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