Majestic Mount Washington: The Crown of New England

Experience the Thrill and Beauty of Mount Washington: New England's Highest Peak with Stunning Views, Historic Railway, and Exciting Outdoor Adventures.

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Mount Washington

Mount Washington, standing tall at 6,288 feet, is the highest peak in the Northeastern United States. Located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, it is famous for its extreme weather and stunning views. The mountain offers a range of activities and experiences for every kind of traveler, from thrill-seekers to nature lovers. One of the most popular ways to reach the summit is by taking the Mount Washington Cog Railway. This historic train journey, which began in 1869, provides a unique and scenic ride to the top. For those looking for a more challenging adventure, various hiking trails, including the famous Tuckerman Ravine Trail, lead to the peak. These trails offer breathtaking vistas and a chance to see the diverse flora and fauna of the region. At the summit, visitors can explore the Mount Washington Observatory and learn about the mountain's weather patterns, which are some of the most severe in the world. The observatory also provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, stretching as far as Canada on a clear day. Don't miss the Sherman Adams Visitor Center, where you can find exhibits, a cafeteria, and a gift shop. For the more adventurous, winter brings opportunities for skiing and snowboarding in the nearby resorts. The mountain's slopes are perfect for both beginners and experienced winter sports enthusiasts. Whatever the season, Mount Washington promises an unforgettable experience with its rich history, natural beauty, and thrilling activities.

Local tips in Mount Washington

Check the weather forecast before planning your visit; conditions can change rapidly.
Wear layers and bring warm clothing, even in summer, as temperatures can be much cooler at the summit.
Purchase tickets for the Cog Railway in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
If hiking, start early in the day to allow plenty of time to reach the summit and return before dark.
Visit the Mount Washington Observatory for educational exhibits and the best panoramic views.

File:2016-09-03 14 09 50 View north across the summit of Mount Washington in

File:Mount Washington Cog Railway Chocorua.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Mount Washington chained building.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Halfway-house-tuckermans-ravine.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:Top of the Rockies - Signage on the Top of the Rockies - NARA - 7722450.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

River Wilderness Landscape image - Free stock photo - Public Domain photo - CC0 Images

File:Here and there in New England and Canada (1899) (14759756152).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Mount Washington?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Mt. Washington State Park

Experience breathtaking views and exhilarating adventures at Mt. Washington State Park, New Hampshire's highest peak and a nature lover's paradise.

Tip Top House

Explore the historic Tip Top House on Mount Washington, where breathtaking views and rich history meet in the heart of New Hampshire's White Mountains.

Unmissable attractions to see

Franconia Notch State Park

Explore the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures at Franconia Notch State Park in New Hampshire's breathtaking White Mountains.

The Mount Washington Cog Railway

Embark on a historic journey aboard the Mount Washington Cog Railway and witness the stunning beauty of New Hampshire's White Mountains.

Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa

Discover unparalleled luxury and adventure at the Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa in Bretton Woods, NH, where history meets modern elegance.

Mt. Washington State Park

Explore the breathtaking vistas and diverse trails of Mt. Washington State Park, New Hampshire's stunning natural wonder and outdoor paradise.

Story Land

Experience the enchantment of Story Land, a magical amusement park in New Hampshire, perfect for family adventures and children's laughter.

Mt. Washington Auto Road

Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Mt. Washington Auto Road, a scenic drive to New England's highest peak.

Lower Falls

Explore Lower Falls: A breathtaking destination for hiking, scenic views, and outdoor adventure in New Hampshire's White Mountains.

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

Explore the beauty of nature at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, a unique blend of museum, zoo, and nature preserve in picturesque New Hampshire.

Rocky Gorge Scenic Area

Experience the natural splendor of Rocky Gorge Scenic Area, a stunning destination along Kancamagus Highway perfect for outdoor adventures and breathtaking views.

AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center

Discover the AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center, your ultimate hub for hiking, relaxation, and breathtaking views in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

Moose Brook State Park

Experience the tranquility and beauty of Moose Brook State Park in New Hampshire, your gateway to outdoor adventures and stunning mountain views.

Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center

Explore the Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center for year-round outdoor adventures in the heart of New Hampshire's breathtaking landscapes.

Glen Ellis Falls

Explore the stunning Glen Ellis Falls in Jackson, NH—a breathtaking waterfall nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

Sugar Hill Scenic Vista

Discover the breathtaking views at Sugar Hill Scenic Vista, a must-visit in Conway, New Hampshire, for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Jewell Trail

Explore the breathtaking Jewell Trail in New Hampshire, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Essential places to dine

Stickney's Restaurant

Indulge in gourmet steak and local flavors at Stickney's Restaurant in Bretton Woods—where exquisite dining meets stunning mountain views.

1902 Main Dining Room

Experience fine dining at the historic 1902 Main Dining Room with breathtaking mountain views and exquisite cuisine in Bretton Woods.

The Grille at Mount Washington Resort Golf Club & Nordic Center

Experience fine dining amidst breathtaking mountain views at The Grille at Mount Washington Resort Golf Club & Nordic Center.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Mount Washington Cog Railway

Unleash your adventurous spirit on the historic Mount Washington Cog Railway with breathtaking views and a thrilling ascent to the summit.

Mt. Washington State Park

Explore Mt. Washington State Park: A natural wonder in New Hampshire, perfect for hiking, scenic drives, and wildlife watching.

Mt. Washington Auto Road

Discover breathtaking views and adventure at Mt. Washington Auto Road, the highest peak in the Northeast, where history meets scenic beauty.

Zeb's General Store

Explore Zeb's General Store in North Conway, a treasure trove of unique gifts, local candies, and unforgettable souvenirs that embody New England charm.

Littleton Coin Company

Discover the rich history of coins and collectibles at Littleton Coin Company in New Hampshire, a must-visit for enthusiasts and curious minds alike.

Tanger Outlets Tilton

Uncover great deals and a variety of brands at Tanger Outlets Tilton, your one-stop shopping destination in New Hampshire.

Settlers Green Outlet Village

Discover unbeatable deals and a charming atmosphere at Settlers Green Outlet Village, the premier outlet mall in North Conway, New Hampshire.

The Old Country Store and Museum

Explore the Old Country Store and Museum in Moultonborough, NH - a unique gift shop, gourmet grocery store, and history museum all in one.

The Christmas Loft

Experience the magic of the holiday season at The Christmas Loft in North Conway, NH, your ultimate destination for Christmas decorations and unique gifts.

Mill Falls Marketplace

Experience the charm of Mill Falls Marketplace, where unique shops, delicious dining, and stunning views of Lake Winnipesaukee come together in Meredith, NH.

Kancamagus Collectables

Explore Kancamagus Collectables, a unique gift shop in North Woodstock, NH, featuring local crafts, souvenirs, and a quirky miniature car museum.

Headlines Boutique

Explore Headlines Boutique in North Conway for unique gifts, clothing, jewelry, and more, capturing the essence of New Hampshire's charm.

Middle Earth

Explore Middle Earth, a charming gift shop in Berlin, NH, offering a whimsical selection of fantasy-inspired treasures and unique collectibles.

International Mountain Equipment

Discover the ultimate outdoor sports store in North Conway, NH, offering everything you need for skiing, hiking, and unforgettable adventures.

New Hampshire Country Store

Discover the charming New Hampshire Country Store, your one-stop shop for local treasures, antiques, and delightful gifts in Chocorua, NH.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Muddy Moose Restaurant & Pub

Discover the heart of North Conway at Muddy Moose Restaurant & Pub, where delicious American cuisine meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Red Fox Bar and Grille

Experience the best of American cuisine at Red Fox Bar and Grille, a family-friendly restaurant in the heart of Jackson, NH.

Barley & Salt, Tap House and Kitchen

Experience the best of American cuisine and craft beer at Barley & Salt, the premier brewpub in North Conway, NH.

Red Parka Steakhouse & Pub

Discover the perfect blend of hearty American cuisine and warm hospitality at Red Parka Steakhouse & Pub in Glen, NH, ideal for families and adventurers.

Tuckerman's Restaurant & Tavern

Experience the flavors of America at Tuckerman's Restaurant & Tavern, a family-friendly bar & grill in the heart of New Hampshire.

White Mountain Cider Co

Experience the best of American cuisine and artisanal cider in the heart of New Hampshire's White Mountains at White Mountain Cider Co.

Almost There Restaurant

Discover the cozy charm and diverse menu of Almost There Restaurant, a delightful American diner in Albany, New Hampshire, perfect for families and food lovers.

The Shannon Door Pub & Restaurant

Experience the heart of Ireland at The Shannon Door Pub & Restaurant, where authentic cuisine meets warm hospitality in beautiful Jackson, NH.

The Glen House

Discover the culinary charm of The Glen House in Gorham, NH, where exquisite dining meets stunning mountain views for an unforgettable experience.

Fabyan's Station

Experience the charm of Fabyan's Station – a family-friendly restaurant in Bretton Woods offering delicious cuisine and stunning mountain views.

Wildcat Inn & Tavern

Discover New England's culinary delights at Wildcat Inn & Tavern, where warm hospitality meets delicious American cuisine in Jackson, NH.

Big Day Brewing

Experience the art of craft brewing at Big Day Brewing in Gorham, NH, where every sip tells a story and every bite is a delight.

CJ's Sports Bar and CJ’s Slopeside Restaurant

Experience great food, a lively atmosphere, and sports excitement at CJ's Sports Bar and CJ’s Slopeside Restaurant in Lincoln, NH.

Stickney's Restaurant

Experience exquisite dining at Stickney's Restaurant, where steakhouse flavors meet pub classics in the heart of Bretton Woods, NH.

The Public House Eatery

Experience the charm of Gorham, NH at The Public House Eatery, where cozy ambiance meets delicious food and local brews.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Mount Washington

Discover Mount Washington with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Mount Washington

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yah]
- YesYup
  [yuhp]
- NoNah
  [nuh]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prah-blum]
- Thank youThanks a lot
  [thanks uh laht]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [pahrd-un me]
- How are you?How ya doin'?
  [how yuh doin]
- Fine. And you?Good. How 'bout you?
  [good. how 'bout yuh]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yuh speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI ain't gettin' it
  [I aint get-tin it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenu, please
  [men-yoo, pleez]
- I don't eat meatI'm vegetarian
  [I'm vedge-eh-tair-ee-un]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [chek, pleez]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy]
- I'm just lookingJust lookin'
  [just look-in]
- How much is it?How much?
  [how much]
- That's too expensiveToo pricey
  [too prah-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya do better?
  [can ya do bet-tur]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [even-in]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yess-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [sev-un]
- 8Eight
  [ate]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [where's the]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [what's the address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [can ya show me on the map]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next bus]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket to]

History of Mount Washington

Long before European settlers arrived, the Abenaki people inhabited the area surrounding Mount Washington. They referred to the mountain as 'Agiocochook,' meaning 'Home of the Great Spirit.' The first recorded European to explore the mountain was Darby Field in 1642, who claimed to have ascended its peak, though his account remains debated.
In 1819, Abel Crawford and his son, Ethan Allen Crawford, established the Crawford Path, which is now recognized as the oldest continuously used mountain trail in the United States. Originally a bridle path, it has become a favorite route for hikers seeking to summit Mount Washington.
In 1869, the Mount Washington Cog Railway opened, becoming the world's first mountain-climbing cog railway. Invented by Sylvester Marsh, this engineering marvel allowed visitors to reach the summit with ease and remains a popular attraction, offering breathtaking views and a unique travel experience.
Opened in 1902, the Mount Washington Hotel is a grand resort that has hosted numerous dignitaries and celebrities. It is famously known for being the site of the 1944 Bretton Woods Conference, where the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank were established.
Mount Washington is notorious for its extreme and unpredictable weather. On April 12, 1934, the Mount Washington Observatory recorded a wind speed of 231 miles per hour, which remained the highest wind speed ever observed on Earth for many decades. The mountain's severe weather conditions are a significant draw for researchers and adventurers alike.
Mount Washington is a key landmark on the Appalachian Trail, a 2,190-mile-long hiking trail that stretches from Georgia to Maine. Thru-hikers often cite the climb up Mount Washington as one of the most challenging and rewarding segments of their journey.
The Summit House, originally built in the mid-19th century, has undergone numerous renovations and remains a central feature at the peak. It offers a museum, gift shop, and cafeteria, providing tourists with amenities and insights into the mountain's history and environment.

Mount Washington Essentials

Mount Washington is located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, USA. The nearest major airport is Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, approximately 2 hours away by car. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to reach the White Mountains. Alternatively, Boston Logan International Airport is about 3 hours away. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus or Amtrak train to nearby towns such as North Conway or Gorham and then use local transportation to reach Mount Washington.
While in the Mount Washington area, having a car is the most convenient way to explore, especially for reaching trailheads and remote areas. However, there are other options. The Mount Washington Cog Railway offers a scenic and historic way to reach the summit. During the winter, snowcat tours are available. Local taxis and shuttles can be used for shorter trips, and there are also bike rental services for those who wish to explore the area on two wheels.
The official currency in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted, including in hotels, restaurants, and most shops. ATMs are available in nearby towns like North Conway and Gorham, so you can easily withdraw cash if needed. It's advisable to carry some cash for small establishments and tipping.
Mount Washington and the surrounding area are generally safe for tourists. However, it is essential to take standard precautions, such as not leaving valuables in plain sight in your car and being cautious when hiking, as weather conditions can change rapidly. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities are in North Conway and Berlin, NH. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and outdoor activities. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in nearby towns. Always carry a map, compass, and proper hiking gear when exploring the mountains.
Fashion: Do dress in layers and wear appropriate outdoor gear. The weather at the summit can be much colder and windier than at the base. Religion: There are no specific religious customs to be aware of, but always be respectful in local communities. Public Transport: Public transport options are limited, so do consider renting a car for convenience. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a nod. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like maple syrup products and New England clam chowder. Don't litter; always carry out what you carry in, especially on hiking trails.
To experience Mount Washington like a local, consider visiting during the off-peak seasons of late spring or early fall when the foliage is spectacular and the trails are less crowded. Visit local diners and cafes for a taste of New England cuisine. Don't miss the Mount Washington Observatory Weather Discovery Center in North Conway for educational exhibits about the mountain's extreme weather. Engage in local outdoor activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking to fully immerse yourself in the area's natural beauty.

Majestic Mount Washington: The Crown of New England

Local tips in Mount Washington