Mount Washington
I had hoped to be able to get to the top of Mt. Washington this year, but having Brian
MacTavish (my West Highland White) with me with the ALiner and no air conditioning, I
didn't dare leave him 30 miles back at camp while I was gone. I didn't want to drive
my Subaru with him in it - the other options being the Cog railway and the Mt. Washington
Stage Line, neither of which took dogs. I have been to the top of Mt. Washington
over the years in each of the three ways and it's a trip worth doing by whatever method
chosen.
In August for a one-day event (this year August 19th), cyclists come from around the
world to cycle to the top of Mt. Washington. I decided not to try this fourth way,
so what photos shown are those I have taken at the bottom, or scanned.
If you're into running, you might consider the annual Mt. Washington Road Race (this
year the 40th held on June 17th).
Once you reach the summit, visit the Sherman Adams State Park Building, the Mount
Washington Observatory Museum, the fully restored Tip Top House (oldest building on Mt.
Washington dating back to 1853), and the historic Summit Stage Office, built in 1878, with
souvenir items, hiking supplies and clothing. Those planning to hike to the summit
should be prepared to hike back to the base. An average time of 8 hours is required
to make the round trip hike in good weather. Although the hiker shuttle is available
on most days, there's no guarantee it will be available every day due to weather
conditions. The world's highest winds (231 mph) were recorded here on April 12,
1934. Highest temperature ever recorded on the summit was 72 degrees F, the lowest a
frigid -47 degrees F, without factoring in the wind chill.
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Mount Washington Auto Road
Route 16, Pinkham Notch
Gorham, New Hampshire
(603) 466-3988
http://www.mt-washington.com
Mid-May to late October, weather permitting. Open to private cars
($16 for vehicle and driver, including audio tour on cassette or CD, plus $6 for each
adult passenger, $4 per child ages 5 to 12), from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 19 - September
6, with shorter hours early and late in the season. Trucks larger than standard
pick-up size and mobile campers are not allowed.
Spring, Summer and Fall guided tours in Auto Road vans ($22 for adults,
$20 for Seniors 62+ and $10 for children ages 5 to 12) are available from 8:30 a.m. to 5
p.m. and take approximately 1-1/2 hours round trip, including 30 minutes on the summit.
Tours leaving prior to 9:30 a.m. will include a one-hour stay at the summit.
Winter SnowCoach Tours are now available, as well. Tours depart from
the Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center throughout the winter, weather permitting (call
603-466-2333).
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