Mount Washington Auto Road
Drive America's oldest man-made attraction, a 7.6-mile road with extreme weather and breathtaking views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Mount Washington Auto Road
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Drive America's oldest man-made attraction, a 7.6-mile road with extreme weather and breathtaking views.
"The drive is a little SCARY, but the views are worth it and the experience is unforgettable."
🚗 Check Your Brakes!
Use low gear for descent to prevent brake overheating.
☁️ Weather Can Change Fast
Check summit forecast; fog can obscure views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Summit Views
Mount Washington Summit
Panoramic vistas stretching for miles, offering a glimpse of the rugged beauty of the White Mountains.
Extreme Weather Phenomenon
Mount Washington Summit
Witness firsthand the raw power of nature with potential for extreme winds and rapidly changing conditions.
Historic Auto Road Drive
Mount Washington Auto Road
An exhilarating 7.6-mile drive with steep grades and dramatic drop-offs, testing your driving skills.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Drive
+1Weather and Summit Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Check Your Brakes!
Use low gear for descent to prevent brake overheating.
☁️ Weather Can Change Fast
Check summit forecast; fog can obscure views.
💰 Pricey but Worth It
Consider the cost for car and passengers; plan accordingly.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Numerous scenic pull-offs for stunning photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Check Your Brakes!
Use low gear for descent to prevent brake overheating.
☁️ Weather Can Change Fast
Check summit forecast; fog can obscure views.
💰 Pricey but Worth It
Consider the cost for car and passengers; plan accordingly.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Numerous scenic pull-offs for stunning photos.
🐕 Dog-Friendly Ascent
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the auto road.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking summit views and the exhilarating, albeit challenging, drive up the historic Mount Washington Auto Road. While the cost is frequently cited as high, many feel the unique experience and spectacular scenery make it worthwhile. The unpredictable weather adds to the mountain's legendary status, offering a memorable adventure for those prepared.
"Was $70 for 2 people (9/2025) and the car, so it is pricey but worth it. Can stay up top for as as u want until 6pm, can take the train up or down also. Tons of scenic photo spots, and the drive is a little SCARY. the road just drops away to half mile drop. Can park up top n hike tons of trails, they have AMAZING GIFT SHOPS all over the park. Amazing."
Jonathan Behling
"It is a beautiful place to see. The biggest complaint is the cost. The vehicle and driver were $36 (UTV) I understand that. The added passenger was also $36. Completely absurd. We should have brought our other UTV and my wife could have driven also for the same price. At the gate house you could tell they didn't want us there. Not friendly, lecturing us to stay off of the grass and no off roading. We were 4 married couples on 4 separate Utvs in our 50's and 60's. We were very put off by the cost and treatment."
OneBadBuick
"It is definitely worth the price to go to the top- you could spend plenty of time wandering around up there and enjoying the museum. Food options seem limited and overpriced but that’s to be expected. Drive itself is a bit scary- you are going up a very steep grade on the edge of a large drop off. Not sure I’d recommend if you have issues with heights. The railroad might be more suitable for those not interested in doing the intense drive"
Shannon Kelleher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mount Washington Auto Road is located in Gorham, New Hampshire. The address is 1 Mount Washington Auto Road, Gorham, NH 03581. Many GPS systems recognize 'Mount Washington Auto Road' or 'Mt. Washington Auto Road'.
Yes, you can drive your own car up the Mount Washington Auto Road. Ensure your vehicle is in good mechanical condition, especially the brakes.
The Auto Road typically opens in late May or early June and closes in mid-October, weather permitting. Always check their official website for current operating status.
You can take the Mount Washington Cog Railway, a historic steam train that ascends the mountain, or opt for guided tours offered by the Auto Road.
The drive up the 7.6-mile road typically takes about 30-45 minutes, not including stops for photos or at the summit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost is typically around $36 for the driver and vehicle, plus an additional $36 per passenger. Prices can vary, so check the official website for the most current rates.
While not always required, purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to guarantee your spot and avoid potential queues.
Discounts are not commonly advertised, but season passes are available for frequent visitors. Check the official website for any special offers.
Hours vary seasonally. Generally, the road is open from 8 AM to 6 PM during the main season, with the last ticket sold at 5:30 PM. Always verify current hours online.
Visitors can stay at the summit until 6 PM. Ensure you plan your descent accordingly to exit before closing.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
At the summit, you can visit the Mount Washington State Park, explore the museum, enjoy the views, and send a postcard from the post office.
The drive is considered challenging and can be scary for those with a fear of heights due to steep grades and sheer drop-offs.
Mount Washington is known for extreme weather, including high winds (over 200 mph recorded), fog, rain, and snow, even in summer.
Yes, there are restrooms and a cafe/gift shop at the summit, though food options can be limited and overpriced.
Yes, there are numerous hiking trails accessible from the summit, including parts of the Presidential Traverse.
📸 📸 Photography
Pull-offs along the road offer stunning views of the changing landscape. The summit provides panoramic vistas, but be mindful of weather conditions.
Fog can create dramatic and moody shots, highlighting the rugged terrain. Embrace the atmospheric conditions for unique photography.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds. However, weather is the biggest factor, so be prepared to shoot in any conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The summit provides educational opportunities at the museum and visitor center, and the chance to experience extreme weather firsthand can be fascinating for kids. 🚗 Car Enthusiasts & Road Trippers
+1 Many share their experiences driving various types of vehicles, from everyday cars to high-performance sports cars, up the mountain. The drive offers incredible photo opportunities, capturing your vehicle against the stunning backdrop of the White Mountains. Just be sure your car is in excellent mechanical condition, especially the brakes, and be prepared for the toll cost. ⛰️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
Be prepared for the mountain's unique flora and fauna, adapted to its harsh conditions. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Driving the Mount Washington Auto Road
+1 The road is narrow in places, and you'll encounter oncoming traffic and steep drop-offs, so it's not for the faint of heart or inexperienced drivers. +1 It's advisable to check your vehicle's condition before embarking on this drive, ensuring your brakes, tires, and fluids are in good shape. Tips for a successful drive:
* Gear Down: Use a low gear (like first or second) for the entire ascent and descent. This helps control your speed and reduces strain on your brakes.
* Brake Checks: If you feel your brakes getting hot, pull over at a designated turnout to let them cool down.
* Watch for Oncoming Traffic: Be prepared to pull over or hug the mountain side when meeting other vehicles.
* Weather Awareness: The summit weather can be drastically different from the base. Be prepared for wind, fog, and cooler temperatures.
+1Many visitors find the drive exhilarating and a true accomplishment. The changing scenery as you ascend, from lush forests to alpine tundra, is a reward in itself.
+1The Infamous Mount Washington Weather
Visitors can experience all four seasons in a single day, with temperatures dropping significantly as you gain elevation. Even on a sunny day at the base, the summit can be shrouded in dense fog, heavy rain, or even snow. This volatile climate creates a unique and dramatic environment, offering a stark contrast to the surrounding New England landscape. What to expect:
* Wind: Expect powerful winds, which can make walking difficult and significantly lower the perceived temperature.
* Fog: Dense fog is common and can reduce visibility to near zero, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
* Temperature: Pack layers, as temperatures can be 20-30 degrees Fahrenheit colder at the summit than at the base.
* Rapid Changes: Weather can shift from clear to stormy in a matter of minutes.
It's crucial to check the summit forecast before your visit and be prepared for any conditions. This extreme weather is a significant part of the Mount Washington experience and adds to its legendary status.
+1Summit Attractions and Amenities
For sustenance, there's a cafe and gift shop at the summit.
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