5 Great Things to Do in the Mt. Washington Valley

The Mt. Washington Valley is in New Hampshire's White Mountains. It’s a place you can visit any time of year. The main attraction is Mount Washington, the tallest mountain in the Northeast.

The mountain is 6,288 feet tall and even makes its own weather. The area is packed with things to do. You can find tall mountains to hike, great ski resorts, and tax-free shopping all close by.

People often ask if Mount Washington is worth visiting. The answer is a definite yes. Here are five of the best ways to enjoy the mix of nature and history in the area.

Ways to Reach the Summit

You can get to the top of the mountain in three main ways. You can drive, take a train, or hike. Each option is very different and good for different people.

1. Drive the Mount Washington Auto Road

The Mount Washington Auto Road is America's oldest man-made attraction, open since 1861. This 7.6-mile road climbs over 4,600 feet to the summit. The drive takes you through different forests until you emerge above the treeline into a rocky landscape.

The views change around every corner. When you finish, you get a "This Car Climbed Mt. Washington" bumper sticker. The drive is steep and has no guardrails, so getting the sticker feels like a real accomplishment.

What to Know Before You Drive

Cost and Hours

As of 2025, the toll is $36 for the driver and $15 for each child passenger. Kids under 4 are free. The road is only open in certain seasons and closes for bad weather.

It's usually open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with longer hours in the summer. The closing time is the last chance to start driving up the road. You have to leave the summit 45 minutes after the road closes.

Drive Time & Experience

It takes about 30 minutes to drive up and a little longer to drive down. The road is steep, narrow, and has no guardrails. If you are afraid of heights, you might not want to drive yourself.

• Driving Tips: When driving down, you must use your lowest gear (L or 1) to control your speed. Don't ride the brakes. Use the pull-offs to let your brakes cool and to take photos.

Vehicle Restrictions

There are strict safety rules for vehicles. RVs, trailers, and some motorcycles are not allowed. Your car also can't be too big or carry too much weight.

• Prohibited: RVs, trailers, mopeds, and bicycles are not allowed.
• Transmission: Some automatic transmissions, especially in older Honda and Acura cars, are not allowed. They might not be able to stay in a low gear on the way down.

Best Time to Go

For the best chance of clear views, go early in the morning on a weekday. July, August, or September are good months to visit.

Guided Tours

If you don't want to drive, you can take a 2-hour guided van tour. This option removes all the stress of driving. The tour includes the ride up, an hour at the top, and the ride down with a guide who shares facts about the mountain.

2. Ride the Historic Cog Railway

The Mount Washington Cog Railway is the world's first mountain-climbing train. It has been taking people up the mountain since 1869. They use both old-fashioned steam engines and newer biodiesel trains.

The ride is very steep, especially on a section called Jacob's Ladder. This is a great choice if you want to relax and enjoy the ride. Just remember you will be on a fixed schedule.

Planning Your Train Trip

Cost and Reservations

Ticket prices change based on the season. If you book online ahead of time, tickets start around $67. It is much cheaper than buying them when you get there.

• Reservations: You really need to book your tickets in advance. Trains often sell out weeks or months ahead, especially in the fall.
• Policies: Make sure you arrive at least 45 minutes early. They have strict rules if you miss your train.

Trip Duration

The whole round trip takes about 3 hours. The ride up takes about 45 minutes. You get exactly one hour at the top before the 45-minute ride down.

The Experience

The train ride is more than just a ride. The crew tells you about the train's history and the area as you go up. You will pass through three different climate zones and get great views.

3. Hike a Trail in the Presidential Range

Hiking Mount Washington is the most challenging way to get to the top. It is also the most rewarding. But you have to take this seriously, because the mountain is very dangerous.

It is known for having the "world's worst weather." The weather can change very quickly. A nice day at the bottom can turn into a dangerous storm at the top with ice and strong winds.

Hiking Trails for All Levels

For Beginners

So, can a beginner climb Mount Washington? The short answer is no. You should not try to hike to the top unless you have a lot of mountain hiking experience and the right gear.

But beginners can still enjoy great hikes in the area. These trails offer amazing views without the danger of the summit.

• Tuckerman Ravine Trail (to the base): A 4.8-mile round trip to see the base of the ravine. You get to see the huge "bowl" without climbing the hardest part.
• Mount Willard: An easy 3.2-mile round trip hike. It ends with a perfect view of Crawford Notch.

For Experienced Hikers

If you are prepared, hiking to the top takes 6 to 10 hours. You will climb over 4,000 vertical feet.

• Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail: A steep 9-mile loop that starts at the Cog Railway base. It passes beautiful waterfalls and gets you above the treeline quickly.
• Tuckerman Ravine Trail: The most common route to the top. It is a very steep and difficult 8.4-mile round trip climb.

Essential Hiking Safety

Hiking Mount Washington is a test of your judgment, not just your strength. You have to be smart and respect the mountain's power.

• Weather: This is the most important thing to check. Before you start, you must check the "Higher Summits Forecast" from the Mount Washington Observatory.
• Gear: The "10 Essentials" are required, even on a sunny day. This includes the right clothing, navigation tools, and safety items.
  • Layers: Wear a base layer that wicks sweat (no cotton), a warm mid-layer like fleece, and a waterproof shell.
  • Protection: Bring a warm hat, gloves, and wool socks.
  • Footwear: Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good grip.
  • Navigation: Bring a map, compass, or GPS, and know how to use them.
  • Safety: Pack a headlamp, a first-aid kit, and extra food and water.
• Turn Back: The most important safety tool is being willing to turn back. Pushing to the summit in bad weather can be a fatal mistake. A successful hike is one you return from safely.

4. Explore the Charms of North Conway

North Conway is the main town in the area and a great place to stay. It is a fun destination on its own. It is perfect for a rest day or when the weather on the mountain is bad.

The town is great for both adventurers and tourists who want to relax. This makes it a good spot for groups of people with different interests.

How to Spend a Perfect Day in North Conway

Shopping

North Conway has two main shopping areas. Settlers Green is a large outdoor outlet mall with tax-free shopping. North Conway Village has a classic Main Street feel with lots of local shops.

Dining

You can find everything from small cafes to local breweries. A stop at a brewery is a popular choice. Tuckerman Brewing Company and Moat Mountain Smokehouse are two local favorites.

Conway Scenic Railroad

This is a different train from the Cog Railway. The Conway Scenic Railroad offers relaxing rides through the valley, not up the mountain.

• Valley Train: This is a popular 55-minute round trip. It leaves from a historic station and offers peaceful views of the countryside.
• Mountaineer: This is a longer, 4-hour trip. It takes you through the beautiful and rugged Crawford Notch.

Local Attractions

• Diana's Baths: This is a beautiful series of small waterfalls and pools. An easy half-mile trail takes you there. The parking lot fills up very early, so plan to arrive in the morning.
• Echo Lake State Park: This is a great spot for a swim or picnic. The lake is at the bottom of tall granite cliffs. It is a beautiful view.

5. Enjoy Year-Round Seasonal Adventures

The Mt. Washington Valley is a great place to visit any time of year. There is not really an off-season because the activities just change. It is a top spot for hiking in the summer, seeing leaves in the fall, and skiing in the winter.

Things to Do in Winter

Skiing and Snowboarding

The valley has been called one of the "World's 25 Best Ski Towns." It is home to several major resorts.

• Attitash Mountain Resort: A large resort with two mountain peaks and a lot of different trails.
• Cranmore Mountain Resort: This is the "in-town" mountain, great for families with skiing, tubing, and an adventure park.
• Wildcat Mountain: A rugged mountain known for its steep trails and amazing views of Mount Washington.

Other Winter Fun

You can also go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. The Mt. Washington SnowCoach can take you partway up the Auto Road in a special van with tracks. You can also find classic sleigh rides.

Things to Do in Summer and Fall

Water Activities (Summer)

A popular summer activity is floating down the Saco River. It is a relaxing trip for families in a tube or kayak. Local rental shops can give you everything you need, including a ride back to your car.

Fall Foliage (Autumn)

In the fall, people come from all over to see the colorful leaves. The Kancamagus Highway is a 34.5-mile scenic drive through the national forest. There are no gas stations or stores, just nature.

• Peak Season: The leaves are usually at their best during the first two weeks of October.
• Key Stops: The "Kanc" is famous for its pull-offs.
  • Lower Falls: A beautiful set of waterfalls that are easy to get to.
  • Rocky Gorge: A scenic gorge with a footbridge crossing the river.
  • Sabbaday Falls: A short hike to a stunning three-level waterfall.
  • Scenic Vistas: Look for overlooks like Hancock Overlook for wide views of the mountains.

What to Do at the Mount Washington Summit

Since three of the top activities end at the summit, it is good to know what is there. The top is not a quiet peak. It is a 60-acre state park that can feel like a busy town.

Tired hikers meet up with families who drove or took the train. The buildings and services are there for everyone to have a good time. This is true even on foggy days when you cannot see the view.

Facilities and Attractions at the Top

Sherman Adams Visitor Center

This is the main building at the summit. It has restrooms, a cafeteria, and gift shops. There is also a small post office where you can mail a postcard.

Mount Washington Observatory & Museum

This is a working research station that studies the mountain's extreme weather. You can visit the interactive "Extreme Mount Washington" museum. It lets you experience what winter is like at the top.

Tip-Top House

This is the oldest building on the summit, built in 1853. It used to be a hotel and is now a historic site.

• 2025 UPDATE: The Tip-Top House is currently closed to the public for repairs.

The Views

On a clear day, the view from the top is amazing. You can see for over 100 miles into five states and even Canada. But the summit is covered in fog and clouds more than half the time.

FAQ: Planning Your Mt. Washington Valley Trip

• What is the best month to visit Mount Washington?

  It depends on what you want to do.

  • Winter (Dec–Mar): Best for serious skiers. Expect extreme cold and limited access to the summit.
  • Spring (Apr–May): This is "mud season" and generally not recommended for hiking.
  • Summer (June–Aug): Peak season for hiking and swimming. Expect large crowds and book things in advance.
  • Fall (Sept–Oct): Great for hiking and seeing the fall foliage. Winter weather can return to the high peaks by mid-October.
• What is the best way to see Mount Washington?

  This is a choice of experience.

  • Driving (Auto Road): Best if you want flexibility and control over your schedule.
  • Riding (Cog Railway): Best for a relaxing, historic journey with no stress.
  • Hiking (Trails): Best for a physical challenge and a sense of accomplishment.
• Are there activities for adults besides hiking?

  Yes, the valley is a great destination for adults. You can enjoy tax-free outlet shopping, visit local breweries, and take scenic drives. There are also many great local restaurants to try.

• What are some good things to do this weekend?

  Here's a good way to plan a last-minute trip.

  • 1. Check the Weather: Your whole plan depends on the Mount Washington forecast. If it is clear, go to the summit. If it is rainy, plan a "valley day" in North Conway or on a scenic drive.
  • 2. Check Local Calendars: Look at websites like VisitMWV.com. You might find a local festival, farmer's market, or live music event.