HIKING TRAIL

Pilatus Kulm – Esel Summit

● Mount Pilatus
🟢Easy
↔ DISTANCE 0.6 km
◷ DURATION 20 minutes
○ DIFFICULTY 🟢Easy
↗ ELEVATION GAIN 50 m
START Pilatus Kulm
FINISH Esel Summit
View from Esel summit on Mount Pilatus overlooking Lake Lucerne, Switzerland

Panoramic view from Esel summit on Mount Pilatus above Lake Lucerne.

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TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS What to expect
  • Second-highest summit of Mount Pilatus
  • Fantastic 360° panoramic views
  • Short and easily accessible trail
  • Ideal for photography
  • Perfect addition to a visit to Pilatus Kulm
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TRAIL CHARACTER Difficulty & terrain

The Pilatus Kulm to Esel Summit Hike is rated as easy. Although the trail is short, it includes several stone steps and should be walked carefully, especially in wet conditions.

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BEST TIME TO HIKE When to go

The trail is usually open from late spring until autumn, depending on weather and snow conditions.

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PILATUS KULM TO ESEL SUMMIT HIKE Pilatus Kulm to Esel Summit Hike

The Pilatus Kulm to Esel Summit Hike is a short but rewarding walk leading to the second-highest peak of Mount Pilatus. Starting directly from Pilatus Kulm, the trail climbs a series of stone steps to the summit of Esel at 2,118 metres above sea level.

Despite its short distance, this hike offers spectacular panoramic views over Lake Lucerne, Central Switzerland and the surrounding Alpine peaks. On clear days, the scenery stretches across countless mountain ranges, making it one of the best viewpoints on Mount Pilatus.

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SWISS-MOUNTS
Interactive Trail Map
GPX ROUTE
SWISS-MOUNTS
TRAIL LEGEND
Hiking route
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Finish
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TRAIL VIEW

Pilatus Kulm – Esel Summit

A glimpse of the landscape along the trail

SWISS-MOUNTS
Pilatus Kulm – Esel Summit
SWISS ALPS Pilatus Kulm – Esel Summit