The Mount Washington Cog Railway takes you on a spectacular journey to the highest peak in the northeastern United States. Sit back, relax and enjoy spectacular views of the White Mountains as you scale some of the steepest railroad tracks in North America.
Begin your journey at the Marshfield Base Station in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire. After you purchase your ticket, explore the station to inspect the exhibits in the Cog Railway Museum and look for souvenirs in the gift shop. If you're hungry, have a snack in the station's restaurant.
The trip to the summit of Mount Washington takes about an hour each way. Along the ride, listen to the train's brakemen regaling you with stories and pointing out interesting sights.
At the top, disembark and explore the summit for one hour. Enjoy a panoramic view stretching to Canada and the Atlantic Ocean on very clear days. Learn about the area and its history at the Mount Washington Observatory and Museum. Meet back at the summit station for your trip down the mountain.
Boarding begins 15 minutes prior to departure time. Seating is first-come, first-served, so get in line early if you want to sit in a specific spot.
Purchase your ticket beforehand online or at the base station’s ticket counter. Discounted tickets are available for children, senior citizens and military personnel. The ticket includes admission to the Mount Washington Observatory and Museum.
Rain, snow or shine, trains typically run on the half hour between late April and October, with weekend trains during November, weather permitting. Catch the last train departing at mid to late afternoon, depending on the season.
Many of the trains are now powered by biodiesel. If you want a trip through time, reserve a spot aboard the coal-fired steam engine train. The steamer has a limited schedule and usually runs early in the morning.
Make sure you bring a camera and clothing layers for your train ride. The summit's beautiful views are often accompanied by weather conditions that vary drastically from those at the base.
