How to Get to Mt Rigi Trails via Vitznau

To plan your trip, review Lucerne travel info.

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Lucerne travel info.

Once in Vitznau, look for the red cogwheel train. The station is right next to the boat pier. This train was the first of its kind in Europe. It climbs steeply up the side of the mountain.

The train stops at several stations along the way. Most hikers stay on until the very top. This final stop is called Rigi Kulm. The views from the summit are truly world-class.

Using the Weggis Cable Car for Hiking Access

You can also travel to Weggis to start your day. Take a boat or a local bus from Lucerne. The bus journey is often faster than the boat. Weggis is a charming village on the lake shore.

From Weggis, walk to the aerial cableway station. This large cabin carries you up to Rigi Kaltbad. The ride offers a bird's-eye view of the water. It is a thrilling way to reach the Mt Rigi panorama walk area.

Rigi Kaltbad is a central hub for many trails. You will find shops and a famous mineral bath here. Many easy paths start from this sunny terrace. It is a great choice for a relaxed afternoon.

Reaching the Trails from Arth-Goldau Station

Take a direct train from Lucerne to Arth-Goldau first. The journey takes about 30 minutes on a fast train. This station connects you to the blue cogwheel railway. It is a very efficient way to reach the peak.

The blue train travels up the eastern slope. This side of the mountain is often quieter. You will pass through lush green forests and meadows. Keep your camera ready for the grazing Swiss cows.

This route is ideal if you want a loop hike. You can go up from Arth-Goldau and down to Vitznau. This allows you to see both sides of the mountain. It makes for a very diverse day of travel.

Transport Costs and Travel Passes for 2026

Traveling to Mt Rigi can be expensive for some. A standard return ticket costs roughly 72 Swiss Francs. This price covers the boat and the mountain trains. Always check for current prices at the station.

The Swiss Travel Pass is a great investment here. It provides free travel on all Rigi transport. You do not need to buy extra tickets. Simply show your pass to the conductor on board.

Half-Fare cards also offer a significant discount on tickets. Children under six years old usually travel for free. Families should look into the Junior Travelcard for savings. This makes the trip much more affordable for everyone.

Best Starting Points for Your Hiking Adventure

Choosing where to get off the train is important. Rigi Kulm is the highest point on the mountain. Start here if you prefer walking downhill toward the lake. The path to Staffel is wide and easy.

Rigi Kaltbad is the best spot for level paths. Many Mt Rigi hiking trails are accessible from here. You can walk to the First station in 20 minutes. The terrain is mostly flat and very scenic.

Staffelhoehe is another great station for quiet forest walks. It sits between the main summit and the lower terraces. Look for the yellow trail signs at every stop. They show the time needed for each destination.