Located just 25 minutes north of North Conway on scenic NH Route 16, the Mt. Washington Auto Road’s unique location in Pinkham Notch provides spectacular views up to the Great Gulf Wilderness and the Presidential Mountain Range.
SnowCoach Tours
Join us this winter for a comfortable winter tour to an extreme world at treeline on Mount Washington!
Seasonally Available • Early December – Mid March
Powered by a 4-track, all-wheel-powered drive-train, the 9-passenger Mt. Washington SnowCoach transports guests (weather permitting) up to treeline on Mt. Washington (at approximately 4,200 feet) into a sub-arctic world for a truly unforgettable adventure.
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT ON A SNOWCOACH TOUR?
Mt. Washington SnowCoaches leave the base area of the Auto Road and Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center and climb up about 4.5 miles, or two thirds of the way to the summit.
Upon arrival at the “Top of the Tour”, passengers are invited to exit the SnowCoach for a few minutes for photos and video opportunities before climbing back aboard for the downward journey back to the base (you can also snowshoe down if you choose!).
At times views can be breathtaking overlooking the protected Great Gulf Wilderness and the Presidential mountain range. At other times high winds and snow can be experienced allowing passengers to witness the extreme conditions which Mount Washington is so well known for. At all times the warmth and safety of the SnowCoach are just steps away.
Drive Yourself
From Base to Summit, Find Adventure at Every Turn
Seasonally Available • Late May – Late October
Due to its remarkable location, weather, and history, the Mt. Washington Auto Road is unlike any other driving experience in the Eastern United States. A trip on Mt. Washington Auto Road is a one-of-a-kind experience offering ever-changing weather extremes, panoramic views and the opportunity to pass through four distinct climate zones as you climb to the highest peak in the Northeast.
The constantly-changing weather adds to the allure and mystique of the famous peak, often allowing visitors to experience high winds and dramatic cloud formations. With an average grade of 12%, a single mile of hard-packed gravel road around mid mountain, and above-treeline views beginning around 4,200 feet, this is truly one of the most spectacular drives in the Northeast!
Guided Tours
Seasonally Available • Mid May – Mid October
Guided Tours offer a unique opportunity to learn the true nature and history of Mount Washington and the Auto Road. Driven by one of our accomplished and dedicated tour guides, your “stage driver” will offer stories, anecdotes, legends, history and insight into the ecological wonder of Mount Washington as well as point out interesting features and scenic opportunities from the base to the 6,288-foot summit.
A trip on Mt. Washington Auto Road is a one-of-a-kind experience offering ever-changing weather extremes, panoramic views and the opportunity to pass through four distinct climate zones as you climb to the highest peak in the Northeast.
Keep those cameras handy because once you arrive to the summit, you’ll be surrounded by the 750,000-acre White Mountain National Forest, where views on a clear day may extend as far as 130 miles to Vermont, New York, Massachusetts, Maine, Quebec, and at time even the Atlantic Ocean!
But be prepared, as the Mount Washington summit reaches 6,288 feet into the clouds meaning you’re far more likely to experience some of the exciting weather extremes which Mount Washington is so well known for. Great for short videos to share with friends!
Also on the summit, you’re free to explore the many historic buildings and exciting opportunities available. Enjoy a historic stroll through the 1853 Tip Top House or find unique gifts at the Summit Stage Office. This is the building you’ll find chained down to the ground … the same building where the highest world record wind speed (observed by man) was recorded on April 12, 1934 … 231 miles per hour!
Additionally, the Sherman Adams Visitor Center offers a cafeteria, restrooms and gift shops, while the Mount Washington Observatory offers the interactive “Extreme Mt. Washington Museum”. Admission to this recently completed summit museum is included in your toll or guided tour fee, and offers interactive displays as well as opportunities to experience just what it’s like on top Mount Washington during the extreme winter months!
Be sure to grab photos at the world-famous 6,288 feet summit marker!