Furka-Berg Railway
The Furka-Berg Railway (DFB) is a narrow-gauge cog railway that runs for about 18 km between Realp (Uri) and Oberwald (Valais). It traverses the Furka summit tunnel at an altitude of 2,163 m above sea level. The route takes you through untouched alpine regions, past wild gorges and steep slopes. The historic steam and diesel locomotives tackle steep gradients of up to 118 ‰. The operation is supported by over 600 volunteers and associations with more than 6,000 members and is open seasonally from June to September.
Activities near Furka-Berg Railway
- Ticket large tour of Sasso San Gottardo
Ticket large tour of Sasso San Gottardo
Airoloper person
from CHF 25
- Galenstock high-altitude tour for experienced climbers via the southeast ridge from Sidelen Hut SAC
Galenstock high-altitude tour for experienced climbers via the southeast ridge from Sidelen Hut SAC
Realpper person
from CHF 830
- Archery at the Uaul Cavorgia Archery Park for Groups
Archery at the Uaul Cavorgia Archery Park for Groups
Disentis/Mustérper person
from CHF 32
- Guided kayaking tour on Trübsee in Engelberg
Guided kayaking tour on Trübsee in Engelberg
Engelbergfrom CHF 55
Furka-Berg Railway on the map
Bookable experiences, places and events at a glance
Good to know about Furka-Berg Railway
Travel guide
4 Highlights of the Furka Cogwheel Railway
- The nostalgic journey takes place on authentically restored cogwheel steam locomotives and historic passenger cars.
- The ride passes through an untouched mountainous landscape of the Swiss Alps, featuring Alpine roses and marmots during the summer.
- Notable engineering feats along the route include the Steffenbach Bridge, which folds in during winter, the Furka summit tunnel, and the steep cogwheel sections.
- You can combine the steam train ride with other modes of transport like the Treno Gottardo and the postbus for a varied travel experience.
Route of the Furka Mountain Steam Railway
The Furka Mountain Steam Railway connects Realp (Uri) and Oberwald (Valais) over the Furka Pass along its approximately 18 km narrow gauge track. The train departs from Realp station (1,538 m above sea level) and follows the Reuss River uphill.
Key Sections of the Route
- Steep cogwheel sections with strong gradients of up to 11.8% lead to the stop at Tiefenbach (1,846 m above sea level) and further to the highest point of the route (2,160 m above sea level).
- Furka Summit Tunnel (1,874 meters long): This tunnel crosses the mountains at an elevation of 2,163 m above sea level and connects the cantons of Uri and Valais. Inside the tunnel, the train runs without cogwheel traction, but with a descent of 3.5%.
- Descent into the Rhone Valley: Using cogwheel sections, the train reaches Gletsch (1,757 m above sea level). This was formerly a stop for the Glacier Express. The journey ends in Oberwald (1,366 m above sea level) with a connection to the Matterhorn-Gotthard-Bahn.
Technical Features
The route combines adhesion (max. 35‰) and cogwheel sections, overcoming tight bends and winding through alpine gorges. The journey takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes by steam train.
Assistance During the Journey on the Furka Mountain Steam Railway
During your ride on the Furka Mountain Steam Railway, you'll be looked after by a team of volunteers. They ensure everything runs smoothly and are available to answer your questions.
The operation relies on over 600 volunteers and their associations, with a total of 6,000 members. The railway operates from late June to mid/end September, running from Thursday to Sunday.
The journey lasts about two hours, with several stops to enjoy the scenery or indulge in culinary treats. A highlight is the 25-minute stop at Furka station, where you can find freshly grilled sausages and chat with the train crew. In cooler weather, a heated tent is available. There are also toilets and an info point with brochures.
4 Highlights of the Furka Cogwheel Railway
- The nostalgic journey takes place on authentically restored cogwheel steam locomotives and historic passenger cars.
- The ride passes through an untouched mountainous landscape of the Swiss Alps, featuring Alpine roses and marmots during the summer.
- Notable engineering feats along the route include the Steffenbach Bridge, which folds in during winter, the Furka summit tunnel, and the steep cogwheel sections.
- You can combine the steam train ride with other modes of transport like the Treno Gottardo and the postbus for a varied travel experience.
Route of the Furka Mountain Steam Railway
The Furka Mountain Steam Railway connects Realp (Uri) and Oberwald (Valais) over the Furka Pass along its approximately 18 km narrow gauge track. The train departs from Realp station (1,538 m above sea level) and follows the Reuss River uphill.
Key Sections of the Route
- Steep cogwheel sections with strong gradients of up to 11.8% lead to the stop at Tiefenbach (1,846 m above sea level) and further to the highest point of the route (2,160 m above sea level).
- Furka Summit Tunnel (1,874 meters long): This tunnel crosses the mountains at an elevation of 2,163 m above sea level and connects the cantons of Uri and Valais. Inside the tunnel, the train runs without cogwheel traction, but with a descent of 3.5%.
- Descent into the Rhone Valley: Using cogwheel sections, the train reaches Gletsch (1,757 m above sea level). This was formerly a stop for the Glacier Express. The journey ends in Oberwald (1,366 m above sea level) with a connection to the Matterhorn-Gotthard-Bahn.
Technical Features
The route combines adhesion (max. 35‰) and cogwheel sections, overcoming tight bends and winding through alpine gorges. The journey takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes by steam train.
Assistance During the Journey on the Furka Mountain Steam Railway
During your ride on the Furka Mountain Steam Railway, you'll be looked after by a team of volunteers. They ensure everything runs smoothly and are available to answer your questions.
The operation relies on over 600 volunteers and their associations, with a total of 6,000 members. The railway operates from late June to mid/end September, running from Thursday to Sunday.
The journey lasts about two hours, with several stops to enjoy the scenery or indulge in culinary treats. A highlight is the 25-minute stop at Furka station, where you can find freshly grilled sausages and chat with the train crew. In cooler weather, a heated tent is available. There are also toilets and an info point with brochures.