Mount Washington Cog Railway
Ride the world's first mountain-climbing cog railway, a historic steam and biodiesel train to the summit of Mount Washington.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, milder temps
Mount Washington Cog Railway
Best Time
Clearer skies, milder temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride the world's first mountain-climbing cog railway, a historic steam and biodiesel train to the summit of Mount Washington.
"A fascinating journey into the ingenuity of the past, well worth the money spent on the ticket."
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Tickets for the Mount Washington Cog Railway sell out fast! Book online well in advance to secure your spot.
🧥 Layer Up for the Summit
The summit is much colder and windier than the base. Bring a warm jacket, even in summer!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Cog Railway Ascent
Marshfield Base Station
Ride the world's first mountain-climbing cog railway, a marvel of engineering climbing steep grades.
Summit Views (Weather Permitting)
Mount Washington Summit
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the White Mountains and beyond, if the notoriously fickle weather cooperates.
Onboard Narration
Cog Railway Car
Learn about the railway's history and the mountain's unique environment from knowledgeable guides.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Dress in Layers for Summit Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Tickets for the Mount Washington Cog Railway sell out fast! Book online well in advance to secure your spot.
🧥 Layer Up for the Summit
The summit is much colder and windier than the base. Bring a warm jacket, even in summer!
⏰ Arrive Early for Museum
Explore the museum at the train station before your ride for added historical context.
📸 Summit Sign Photo Op
Don't forget to snap a photo at the iconic Mt. Washington Summit sign!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Tickets for the Mount Washington Cog Railway sell out fast! Book online well in advance to secure your spot.
🧥 Layer Up for the Summit
The summit is much colder and windier than the base. Bring a warm jacket, even in summer!
⏰ Arrive Early for Museum
Explore the museum at the train station before your ride for added historical context.
📸 Summit Sign Photo Op
Don't forget to snap a photo at the iconic Mt. Washington Summit sign!
💧 Check Summit Weather
Weather changes rapidly. Check summit conditions before you go to manage expectations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Mount Washington Cog Railway as a unique and memorable experience, highlighting the historic engineering and the breathtaking (though weather-dependent) summit views. While some find the onboard audio challenging to hear, the overall journey is considered well-organized and worth the ticket price for its historical significance and scenic beauty.
"Our group enjoyed the journey up Mt Washington on the cog. We had 2 different “docents” who shared info with us on the way up and back. The first one was quite hard to hear (Pink cat) and the speaker system was not great. The second spoke louder and I caught most of the comments.
Unfortunately, we went up on a cloudy day and didn’t see much once we were 1/2 way up. I believe they said this is the case about 40% of the time.
The summit had nice facilities and we enjoyed a comfortable, climate controlled lunch on some of the many tables.
The railcars and seats were moderately comfortable and windows could open and close. On the way down, the clouds broke and we had some lovely vires of the colorful filiale and valley below.
I would love to come back again on a clear day, but we felt it was still an enjoyable ride. The timing was great I our opinion. About 45 minutes up. About 45 minutes at the summit. About 45 minutes down."
Stephen Balza
"Well worth the money spent on the ticket for this experience. A fascinating journey into the ingenuity of the past. The 2 small museums at the bottom and summit are great but the real star is the Cog itself. A fun family trip just make sure that you dress on layers. The temp on the summit will be much colder than at the beginning of the ride."
Jenne Holmes
"We had a wonderful time taking the Cog Train to the summit. Our breakman was very entertaining and knowledgeable about the railway and the mountain range. It was about 30° cooler on the mountain than at the base with sustained winds of 67 and gusts up to 85. It was an amazing experience and glad we did it."
Gary G
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mount Washington Cog Railway is located at the Marshfield Base Station in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire. You can drive directly to the station, and there is parking available. Many visitors also find hotels near the Cog Railway for convenient access.
Yes, there is parking available at the Marshfield Base Station for visitors. It's recommended to arrive a bit early, especially during peak season, to ensure a spot.
Public transportation options directly to the Cog Railway are limited. Most visitors arrive by car. Consider ride-sharing services or checking local shuttle options if you are not driving.
The drive to the Cog Railway base station is scenic, winding through the White Mountains. If you're driving to the summit via the Mount Washington Auto Road (a separate attraction), be prepared for steep, narrow, and winding roads. +1
Yes, there are several hotels and lodging options near the Mount Washington Cog Railway, particularly in the Bretton Woods area. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for the Mount Washington Cog Railway vary depending on the season and type of train. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing and to purchase tickets in advance, as they often sell out.
The most reliable way to purchase tickets is directly through the official Mount Washington Cog Railway website. You can also sometimes purchase them at the Marshfield Base Station, but booking in advance is highly recommended.
Yes, it is strongly advised to buy your Mount Washington Cog Railway tickets in advance, especially during the popular summer and fall seasons. Tickets often sell out days or weeks ahead of time.
The train ride up Mount Washington typically takes about 45 minutes each way. You'll also have time at the summit, usually around 45 minutes, before the descent.
Discounts for the Mount Washington Cog Railway are not always readily available. Keep an eye on their official website for any special promotions or group rates that might be offered.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Mount Washington is famous for its extreme and unpredictable weather. Expect it to be significantly colder and much windier at the summit than at the base, with temperatures dropping considerably and winds often reaching high speeds.
It's crucial to dress in layers. Bring a warm jacket, hat, and gloves, even if it's warm at the base. The summit can feel like winter.
At the summit, you can visit the Mount Washington Observatory, explore the gift shop, and enjoy the panoramic views (weather permitting). There are also facilities for restrooms and a place to eat.
While technically possible, it's generally not recommended to hike down after taking the Cog Railway up unless you are an experienced hiker prepared for the terrain and conditions. The Cog Railway is designed for a round-trip experience.
The Cog Railway aims to be accessible. It's best to contact them directly to discuss specific accessibility needs and arrangements for boarding and seating.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are food options available at the Marshfield Base Station, including snacks and light meals. At the summit, you can find a cafeteria-style dining area with basic food and drinks.
While not explicitly prohibited, it's generally best to consume your own food and drinks before or after your ride, or at designated areas. The focus is on the train experience itself.
The summit offers a cafeteria with a selection of food and beverages. It's a convenient place to refuel and warm up after experiencing the summit's elements.
Yes, the Bretton Woods area, where the base station is located, has several restaurants and dining establishments offering various cuisines.
Prices at the summit can be higher due to the remote location and logistical challenges of transporting goods. It's advisable to check menus and prices beforehand if you have specific budget concerns.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire journey offers stunning photo opportunities, from the historic trains themselves to the dramatic mountain landscapes. Don't miss shots of the train on the steep inclines and the panoramic views from the summit.
The extreme weather, especially wind and potential precipitation, can make photography challenging. Protect your equipment, and be prepared for conditions that might limit your time outdoors.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto for capturing details of the train. A sturdy tripod can be useful, but be mindful of wind.
The entire route provides scenic vistas. The guides often point out interesting features, and the changing perspectives as you ascend offer unique photographic moments.
Yes, the summit sign is a popular spot for photos. Be prepared for potential crowds and wind when trying to get your shot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to dress everyone in layers, as summit temperatures can be a shock. The summit facilities offer a place to warm up, and the gift shop has souvenirs. The onboard narration can also be engaging for older children who are interested in history and science.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for challenging weather conditions that can impact your gear and shooting time. A versatile lens and protection for your camera are essential. The changing light and atmospheric conditions can create dramatic and memorable shots, especially during sunrise or sunset if your schedule allows.
⛰️ Outdoor Adventurers
For those seeking a more strenuous experience, consider hiking to the summit via one of the many trails. However, always be prepared for the mountain's severe weather, even if you're not taking the train. The Cog Railway can be a great way to experience the summit without the physical exertion of a full hike.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of the Cog Railway
Visitors can choose between historic steam locomotives or more modern biodiesel-powered engines. Both offer a unique experience, with the steam engines providing a nostalgic journey and the biodiesel engines offering a smoother, quieter ride. The journey itself is an adventure, with the train chugging slowly up the mountain, offering ever-expanding views.
The railway was the brainchild of Sylvester Marsh, who was inspired by the difficulty of climbing Mount Washington on foot. His innovative design overcame the limitations of conventional railways on steep inclines, making the summit accessible to a wider range of visitors. The railway is a National Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark, celebrating its enduring legacy.
Navigating Mount Washington's Infamous Weather
This unpredictable weather is why dressing in layers is absolutely essential. Even on a warm summer day at the base station, the summit can feel like a winter environment. A warm, windproof jacket, hat, and gloves are highly recommended. Many visitors are surprised by the drastic temperature drop and the intensity of the wind.
While the weather can be challenging, it also contributes to the mountain's mystique and the dramatic beauty of the landscape. The Mount Washington Observatory at the summit actively monitors and studies these extreme conditions, adding an educational element to the visitor experience.
The Cog Railway Experience: What to Expect
During the ascent, guides, often referred to as "docents" or "breakmen," provide commentary on the railway's history, the surrounding landscape, and the mountain's unique weather phenomena. Their insights add significant value to the experience, making it both educational and entertaining.
Upon reaching the summit, visitors can visit the Mount Washington Observatory, browse the gift shop, and enjoy the panoramic views. Facilities like restrooms and a cafeteria are available, providing comfort and sustenance. The descent offers a different perspective of the mountain, often revealing new vistas as the clouds shift.
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