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Pilatus (mountain) facts for kids

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Pilatus
Luzern - Mount Pilatus - March 2019 (01).jpg
The iconic Pilatus above Lake Lucerne
Highest point
Peak Tomlishorn
Elevation 2,128.5 m (6,983 ft)
Prominence 585 m (1,919 ft)
Isolation 16.7 km (10.4 mi)
Parent peak Brienzer Rothorn
Geography
Pilatus is located in Switzerland
Pilatus
Pilatus
Location in Switzerland
Country Switzerland
Cantons Nidwalden and Obwalden
Parent range Emmental Alps
Climbing
First ascent 14th century
Easiest route Pilatus Railway (world's steepest cogwheel railway)

Mount Pilatus, often just called Pilatus, is a famous mountain in Central Switzerland. It stands tall at 2,129 metres (about 7,000 feet) and looks over the beautiful city of Lucerne. This impressive mountain is located where the Swiss regions of Lucerne, Nidwalden, and Obwalden meet.

One of the most exciting ways to reach the top is by riding the Pilatusbahn. This special train takes you very close to the summit, reaching 2,073 metres high. It's known as the steepest cogwheel railway in the entire world!

Exploring Mount Pilatus

Mount Pilatus is a popular spot for visitors from all over. It offers amazing views and fun activities. The highest point of the mountain is called Tomlishorn. From here, you can see far across the Swiss landscape.

Getting to the Top

Reaching the top of Pilatus is an adventure itself. Besides the famous Pilatusbahn, there are other ways to go up. You can take a modern aerial cable car, sometimes called the "Dragon Ride." This cable car gives you fantastic views as you glide towards the summit. There are also gondolas that offer a gentler ride up the mountain.

Many people enjoy hiking on Pilatus. There are different trails for various skill levels. Some paths lead to stunning viewpoints. Others take you through beautiful nature.

What to Do at the Summit

Once you are at the top, there is plenty to explore. You can visit the hotels and restaurants for a meal or a snack. Imagine eating while looking out at such incredible scenery! There are also viewing platforms where you can take amazing photos.

In winter, the mountain is covered in snow. It becomes a magical place. The views of the snowy peaks and valleys are breathtaking. Even in colder months, the Pilatusbahn and cable cars usually operate.

Legends of Pilatus

Mount Pilatus is not just famous for its height and views. It also has many old legends and stories. One popular tale says that dragons with healing powers used to live on the mountain. This is why one of the cable cars is called the "Dragon Ride"!

Another legend connects the mountain to Pontius Pilate, a Roman governor. Some stories say he was buried in a lake on the mountain. However, these are just old tales. They add to the mystery and charm of Mount Pilatus.

Images for kids

  • Esel-Pilatus Kulm

    View of Lucerne and Lake Lucerne from the summit.

  • Pilatus seen from Stanserhorn funicular

    Pilatus seen from the southeast.

  • Trains du Pilate (Suisse) (4444425461)

    Pilatusbahn on its way to the top.

  • 55-PB-Gondel

    Newest aerial cable car (called Dragon Ride) arriving at top station of Pilatus

  • Pilatus Mountain

    Pilatus mountain seen from Gisikon Root

  • Pilatus Lake Lucerne

    Pilatus and Lake Lucerne

  • PilatusNearLucernFromAbove

    A view of the Hotel and Restaurant, the cog railway top station, and the Esel peak in the back

  • ViewFromPilatus

    A view from the mountain in winter (March 2006)

  • Mtpilatusfromtrain

    A view from the cog-wheel railway

  • Sunrise at lake lucerne

    View from Pilatus towards mount Rigi and Lake Lucerne

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Monte Pilatus para niños

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