Andy begins the hike to Pilatus, past farms overlooking Alpnacher See.

The trail to Pilatus often follows the funicular tracks.

Andy on the trail to Pilatus.

The trail to Pilatus gives beautiful views nearly from the start.

Andy on the trail to Pilatus, where the trail passes through a beautiful section of forest.

After a many km of climbing through the forest, we switchback up through high alpine meadows beside the funicular railway.

After a many km of climbing through the forest, we enter high alpine meadows with grand views.

Mountain bikers descend Pilatus while sailboats ply Lake Luzern and a paraglider is visible as a red speck below and right of Rigi's summit.

Andy approaches the Anmielden rail stop as we get our first views of the peaks of Pilatus.

Grand views of Alpnacher See and Lake Luzern with the Alps beyond.

Views of the peaks from Anmielden rail stop.

Grand views of the Alps to the south.

The highest peaks of Pilatus, hotels and all; the funicular is visible just left of center.

A tiny, brilliant blue flower.

Andy descends through the alpine meadows below the peaks of Pilatus.

Andy descends through the alpine meadows with views of the Alps beyond.

The neighborhood cows watch curiously as we pass.

Andy pauses our return to Alpnachstad to greet a grazing cow.