Mount Washington State Park Tours and Activities

Mount Washington State Park featuring mountains, autumn leaves and forests


Whether you explore it by car, train or foot, this park located at the summit of Mount Washington promises beautiful scenery and breathtaking views.

Mount Washington State Park blankets the highest peak in northeastern United States. Surrounded by the vast 750,000-acre (300,000-hectare) White Mountain National Forest, the park is in the midst of some of New England’s most beautiful wilderness. On a clear day, from Mount Washington’s summit you can see as far as 130 miles (210 kilometers) to Canada and the Atlantic Ocean.

Choose from several ways to explore Mount Washington State Park. For a relaxing journey, ride the historic Mount Washington Cog Railway. Enjoy the views as you ascend one of North America’s steepest railroads. Alternatively, drive up the 8-mile (13-kilometer) Mount Washington Auto Road. Conquering this road is considered a badge of honor. Purchase a bumper sticker proclaiming “This car climbed Mt. Washington” to commemorate your achievement.

If you’re feeling adventurous, hike up the mountain, bringing water and allowing plenty of time before night or bad weather falls. At least 15 trails wind up the mountain, including the Appalachian Trail. The most popular route is Tuckerman’s Ravine, visited in winter too for backcountry skiing.

The Sherman Adams Summit Building houses a gift shop, where you can purchase souvenirs or practical supplies. Visit the café and restrooms here.

Mount Washington is known as “Home of the World’s Worst Weather,” so it makes sense that a weather observation center is located on-site. Learn all about the area, its history and its famous weather at the Mount Washington Observatory and Museum.

Visit the historic Tip-Top House next door. This small stone structure was built in the mid-1800s and served as a hotel and newspaper press for years.

Summit buildings are open daily during the visiting season. However, due to the unpredictable weather at the summit, unexpected closings may occur. Get in touch with the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation to confirm openings.

The park is closed from November to April, coinciding with the Auto Road and Cog Railroad’s closures. During this period, all summit buildings are closed. Use the trails remaining open for hikers and skiers, but be aware that no shelters are available if the weather is poor.

Popular places to visit


Top Mount Washington State Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

The Glen House Hotel
The Glen House Hotel
3.5 out of 5
979 NH Rt 16, Gorham, NH
The Glen House Hotel
Omni Mount Washington Resort
Omni Mount Washington Resort
4 out of 5
310 Mt Washington Hotel Rd, Bretton Woods, NH
Omni Mount Washington Resort
998 Pinhkham · Cozy Wooded Cabin/private hot tub/fireplace/river
998 Pinhkham · Cozy Wooded Cabin/private hot tub/fireplace/river
jackson
998 Pinhkham · Cozy Wooded Cabin/private hot tub/fireplace/river
F3 Well appointed Townhome a short walk to the Mount Washington Hotel! 1 minute to ski area.
F3 Well appointed Townhome a short walk to the Mount Washington Hotel! 1 minute to ski area.
Bretton Woods
F3 Well appointed Townhome a short walk to the Mount Washington Hotel! 1 minute to ski area.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.