All the cycling data and info you'll need to climb Goscheneralp

Cycling Goscheneralp

Ride 10.1 kilometers gaining 699 meters at 6.9% to elevation 1,796 meters.

This is a little known climb located in the cycling climbing world hub of Andermatt. We enjoyed the beauty and solitude of this route so much we did it twice, once during normal hours and again to see the sunrise from the dam.

The climb begins in Göschenen (2018 population of 448)

Göschenen is a small village located in the Uri canton of Switzerland. It is situated in the heart of the Swiss Alps and is known for its stunning natural beauty and its importance as a transportation hub in the region.

Göscheneralp is situated in a glacial valley in the Swiss Alps. It is surrounded by towering peaks, including the Dammastock, which is the highest mountain entirely within Switzerland. The region's landscape is characterized by rugged mountains, lush alpine meadows, and pristine glacial lakes.

Much of the climb is near and some in sight of Göschener Reuss which runs into and out of Göscheneralpsee Reservoir.

While Göscheneralp is not as heavily visited as some other Swiss destinations, it has gained popularity among nature lovers seeking a quieter and more pristine alpine experience. Accommodations in the area include traditional Swiss chalets, guesthouses, and campgrounds.

We passed a couple herds of goats along our climb.

We pass Kapelle zur schmerzhaften Mutter (a small chapel) and Gasthaus Göscheneralp (4.7 Google rating on 299 reviews) at kilometer 7.3.

The Göschener Valley is the main access point to Göscheneralp. It's a narrow valley with a river flowing through it and is flanked by steep cliffs and forested slopes. The road leading to Göscheneralp offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular route for scenic drives . . . and a few lucky cyclists . . .

The views get more and more spectacular as we near the dam and reservoir.

Göschenen Glacier in the background of the dam at the top of the climb

The highlight of this climb is the Göscheneralp Reservoir (Göscheneralpsee). This artificial lake was created by damming the Göschener Reuss River and serves as a hydroelectric power source. The emerald-green waters of the reservoir contrast beautifully with the rugged mountain scenery, making it a popular spot for photography and picnics.

Göscheneralp is a staging area for many hikes and outdoor adventures in the area.  In addition to the reservoir located at Göscheneralp is  home to the hotel and restaurant Berggasthaus Dammagletscher (4.4 Google rating on 262 reviews).

We made it to the top  just after sunrise on one of our rides.