TL;DR
Switzerland's Schilthorn Piz Gloria has launched the world's steepest cable car, achieving a remarkable 159.4% gradient. This groundbreaking addition transforms the journey between Stechelberg and Mürren into a swift four-minute ride, marking a major milestone in the resort's comprehensive SCHILTHORNBAHN 20XX upgrade project.
Record-Breaking Cable Car Elevates Murren Ski Resort Access
The Swiss Alps have reached new heights in mountain transportation innovation. On December 13th, Schilthorn Piz Gloria ski resort unveiled its groundbreaking cable car system, setting a world record with its extraordinary 159.4% gradient.
The new system, which opened to the public on December 14th, connects Stechelberg to Mürren in just four minutes. Climbing 775 meters (2,543 feet) over a distance of 1,194 meters (3,917 feet), this engineering marvel showcases Swiss precision at its finest.
Each cabin accommodates 85 passengers or 6.8 tons of cargo, with an innovative loading robot managing freight operations below while passengers board above. The system's capacity reaches 800 people per hour, featuring a unique 11-meter (36-foot) suspension arm designed specifically for the steep gradient.
Full coverage of the worlds steepest aerial tram
The cable car operates using the cutting-edge AURO system (Autonomous Ropeway Operation). This advanced technology eliminates the need for on-site staff through sophisticated camera and sensor monitoring systems.
Alongside this achievement, Schilthorn introduced Switzerland's first Funifor system between Mürren and Birg. This innovative dual-track system offers enhanced reliability, as each track operates independently. The second Funifor track will join operations in November 2025, with each cabin designed to transport 100 passengers.
These developments are part of the broader SCHILTHORNBAHN 20XX initiative. The summit, home to the iconic Piz Gloria rotating restaurant - famous for its appearance in James Bond's "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" - will reopen on March 15, 2025, with its first new tram track. A second summit track follows in Spring 2026.
Upon completion, the full system will slash journey times from base to summit from 32 to 18 minutes, eliminating the need for multiple transfers. This transformation marks a new era for both skiers and riders accessing this legendary Swiss destination.
About the author
Michael Fulton
Melbourne-based skier and snowboarder with 50+ resorts across 5 continents. Specialises in Australian resorts and international resort comparisons.
