Mount Washington Auto Road
Route 16, Pinkham Notch
Gorham, NH 03581
(603) 466-3988
(800) 367-3364

A trip to the top of a mountain by car is unusual, especially when the mountain is the highest on the eastern seaboard. As the Auto Road's website states: From the first horse-drawn wagons to today's modern vehicles, vacationers on the Auto Road have been experiencing the wonders of Mount Washington's' weather, scenery and history for 150 years.

Famous for its challenging terrain, Mount Washington sits among the roughest and most rugged stretches of the Appalachian Trail. Visitors to the summit can visit the observatory and museum which gives insight to what it is like to live and work in the harsh environment. You can view exhibits about the weather and the area's natural history. There is also a recreation of Tip Top House, the original visitors' building on Mount Washington.

The State Park system of NH operates a very reasonably-priced cafeteria where visitors can grab a meal or a snack, while viewing the most fantastic scenery in North America! You can easily see the peaks of the Presidential Range, including Mount Jefferson, Mount Adams and Mount Madison. In clear weather, some claim you can see the glimmer of the Atlantic Ocean.

It might be hazy, hot and humid for you, but it doesn't have to be: An 80-degree day at the bottom can be a 45-degree day at Mount Washington's summit, so bring warm clothing. The Auto Road climbs over 4600 feet in about 7.5 miles.

Watch out for the weather! The 231 MPH wind record set on Mount Washington in 1934 held steady until scientists verified a wind gust of 253 MPH in Australia in 1996.

The admission for a car and driver is $29 (2017), with nominal fees for additional passengers. Children under four are free. Pile in the car and change your point of view. Frequent visitors can inquire about a reduced rate and guided tours are available.