Mountain bike tours

San Gottardo Biketrail Nufenenpass - Ulrichen

Flowiger Abschnitt auf dem Nufenentrail vom Nufenenpass nach Ulrichen.

Obergoms

Closed

Starting from the Nufenen Pass, the second highest Alpine pass in Switzerland, this descent impresses with its varied character. At times technically demanding over rocky terrain, then flowing again over alpine meadows, the trail winds its way into Obergoms against a breathtaking backdrop, ending in Oberwald.

Difficulty

Difficult

Length

11.1 km

Duration

1:20 h

Description

The CarPostal takes you comfortably from Airolo to the start of the route on the Nufenen Pass (2,478 metres above sea level). The pass offers a marvellous view of the snow-covered peaks of the Bernese and Valais Alps as well as the first glimpse of the descent ahead. Some sections of the trail clearly recognisable from above as it first makes a detour across Ticino’s cantonal border before continuing on Valais soil. The uppermost section leads through a high alpine landscape: over stony terrain, past dry stone walls and other relics of Roman times. It's worth taking a look into the distance: apart from the wonderful view over the entire valley, the peaks of the Finsteraarhorn, Mönch, Jungfrau and Eiger can be recognised in the background on a clear day. This is followed by flowing sections over soft alpine meadows and forest floor. These are interrupted by short, technically more demanding sections. The crossings of the Nufenen Pass road offer ideal breaks to catch your breath.

Our favorites

Our favorite itineraries are part of a selection of the best routes in the region and are proposed by Valais/Wallis Promotion to best meet the expectations of our guests.

Turn-by-turn directions

The trail runs alongside the Ägene mountain stream and the pass road out of the valley. The vegetation, fauna and flora change during the descent: at the top of the pass it is often windy and fresh, even in midsummer; the landscape is stony and barren. Towards the bottom, it gets warmer and warmer and the landscape becomes more colourful, the ground softer and the trail more flowy. Once in the valley, you follow the Rhone route between Ulrichen and Oberwald. This stage is particularly suitable for experienced mountain bikers, with downhill fun taking centre stage.

Start

Nufenenpass (2'478) (2478m)

Destination

Ulrichen (1'347 m) (1347m)

Author's recommendation

After the descent, it's worth stopping off at one of the restaurants in Ulrichen.

Technical information

Altitude

2494m

1347m

Ascent

+16m

Descent

-1147m

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Best time of the year

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

Tags

  • Enduro
  • Linear route
  • Singletrail/Free ride
  • Multi-stage route
  • Scenic
  • Insider tip
  • Cultural/historical interest
Getting there
Information

Public transport

By CarPostal from Ulrichen.

Operates from the end of June to mid-October (Ulrichen, railway station -> Nufenen Pass summit).

Bike reservation 0848 100 222 until 16.00 hrs the day before obligatory.

Approach

By train (Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn) from Brig in 1h 15min to Ulrichen station.

Equipment

Mountain bike with good suspension and perfect brakes. Cycling gloves, helmet and knee pads at your own discretion. Rucksack with repair material.

Preparing for mountain bike outings

Safety information

The mountains are a place of pleasure to be shared and respected, offering space in which to meet up and share unforgettable moments, whether by bike or on foot. For all outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy them properly, it is essential that mountains are shared in a way that respects both Nature and agriculture. Respectful behaviour enables everyone to enjoy their hobby in the best possible conditions. Find out about the recommendations and rules in place.

Best practice guidelines

When planning, take into account participants’ fitness level and ability. All riding is at one’s own risk.

Additional information

Maps

Swiss National Map 1:25 000, sheet 1250 Ulrichen, ISBN: 978-3-302-01250-6

Source

This activity is brought to you by Goms Tourismus. Valais/Wallis Promotion is not responsible for the content provided.

The Swisspeak Resort in Vercorin in a winter setting

Your accommodation in Valais