Mount Washington Auto Road
United States, north-america
12 km
1,917 m
hard
May-October (road closed in winter to private vehicles)
# Mount Washington Auto Road: A Classic New England Adventure
Ready for one of America's most iconic drives? The Mount Washington Auto Road is a wild 12-kilometer ride up New Hampshire's Presidential Range to the 1,917-meter summit—and trust me, it's an unforgettable experience.
This gem has been drawing adventurers since 1861, when it first opened as a carriage road. That makes it one of the oldest tourist attractions in the US, and for good reason. The road doesn't mess around: you're looking at an average grade of 12% with some sections hitting a brutal 22%. By the time you reach the top, you'll have climbed over 1,400 meters of pure elevation gain.
Here's where it gets wild: Mount Washington holds the world record for the highest wind speed ever directly measured on Earth—a bonkers 372 km/h recorded way back in April 1934. Even on supposedly "nice" summer days, you'll feel why this mountain demands respect.
The real drama kicks in above the 1,200-meter mark, where you break through the treeline into the alpine zone. Conditions up here can flip in minutes—literally. But when the weather cooperates? The summit views are absolutely spectacular, stretching across four states, Quebec, and all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. This drive is equal parts adrenaline rush and scenic masterpiece.
Where is it?
Mount Washington Auto Road is located in New Hampshire, United States (north-america). Coordinates: 44.2706, -71.3033
Driving Tips
# Mount Washington Drive Tips
Before you head up, definitely check the weather and road status first – this road actually closes when winds get too gnarly, so you'll want to know ahead of time if you can make the trip.
When you're coming down, use a low gear to help slow you down naturally. Seriously, don't just ride your brakes the whole way – that'll overheat them and isn't fun for anyone.
Here's a nice bonus: your toll gets you an audio tour to listen to while you drive, plus you'll snag one of those cool "This Car Climbed Mt. Washington" bumper stickers for your car. Pretty neat souvenir.
If those steep grades are making you nervous, no shame in it – they offer a guided van tour option where you can just sit back and let someone else handle the driving. Sometimes that's the way to go!
Road Surface
Paved lower section, gravel upper section, steep grades
Road Details
- Country
- United States
- Continent
- north-america
- Region
- New Hampshire
- Length
- 12 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,917 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Surface
- Paved lower section, gravel upper section, steep grades
- Best Season
- May-October (road closed in winter to private vehicles)
- Coordinates
- 44.2706, -71.3033
Related Roads in north-america
moderateIs Lolo Motorway in ID unpaved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventurers, listen up! If you're craving a seriously epic off-road experience, you HAVE to check out the Lolo Motorway in central Idaho. Forest Road 500, as it's officially known, is a 93-mile, mostly unpaved, single-lane dirt track that winds its way through the heart of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest. Word to the wise: this isn't a Sunday drive! We're talking rough terrain, super narrow sections, and a whole lot of remoteness. Think stunning views meet serious self-sufficiency. You'll definitely need a high-clearance vehicle (leave the RV and trailers at home!), and be prepared for zero cell service in spots. There are no services out there – no gas, no stores, nada. It's just you, your trusty vehicle, and the breathtaking scenery. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, this road follows the path of the Nez Perce and other tribes, and even Lewis and Clark! Plan for at least 6-8 hours of driving time, but honestly, you'll want to linger and soak it all in. The Lolo Motorway tops out at over 7,000 feet near Indian Postoffice in the Bitterroot Mountains, so keep an eye on the weather. This high-altitude route is usually snow-free from July to September, but conditions can change fast. Basically, if you're looking for a wild, unforgettable road trip through history and nature, the Lolo Motorway is calling your name!
easyThe Peak to Peak Highway Route: From Estes Park to I-70
🇺🇸 Usa
Established in 1918, the is Colorado's oldest scenic byway. Spanning 55 miles (89 km) through the heart of the Front Range, this route offers matchless views of the Continental Divide. It is an essential mountain corridor that connects Rocky Mountain National Park with historic gold-mining districts, blending alpine nature with the rugged ghost towns of the Old West. Peak to Peak Scenic Byway: Travel Facts ~80 minutes (one way) / 3 hours (round trip) CO Highway 7, 72, and 119 Estes Park, Nederland, Black Hawk The Peak to Peak Highway Route: From Estes Park to I-70 (CO Highway 7), where it connects with the legendary . As you head south, the road passes under the shadows of Lily Mountain and Twin Sisters. After , the route transitions to CO Highway 72, leading to , before finishing on CO Highway 119 through the canyon towards the I-70 junction. Best Stops along the Peak to Peak Highway The Peak to Peak Highway is a gateway to numerous mountain lakes and historic sites. Here are the must-see spots along the way: A beautiful roadside lake offering panoramic views of Longs Peak (14,259 ft). Note: Timed entry permits are required during peak summer months. Known as the "Chapel on the Rocks," this stone church is a historic landmark located just outside Allenspark. Brainard Lake Recreation Area: A short detour from Ward, this area provides access to the Indian Peaks Wilderness and high-altitude hiking trails. Historic Mining Towns: offers a great stop for lunch and a visit to the local Mining Museum, while is famous for its preserved 19th-century architecture and lively casinos. Practical Tips for Driving the Peak to Peak Highway While the Peak to Peak Highway is well-maintained and open year-round, it offers a different experience depending on the season: The most popular time to visit is late September. The "Golden Ascent" occurs when the aspen forests turn vibrant yellow, creating one of the most photographed road trips in the USA. The road crosses the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests. Be alert for moose and bighorn sheep, especially at dawn and dusk. Off-Road Exploration: Gravel roads branching off the main highway lead to ghost towns like . If you plan to explore these side routes, a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Ensure your brakes and cooling systems are in good shape, as the route includes several long descents through mountain canyons. As Colorado's first designated scenic highway, the Peak to Peak remains a classic American drive. It offers a perfect balance of accessible pavement and the wild, untamed history of the Rocky Mountains, making it a favorite for motorists and photographers alike. Driving an easy dirt road to Muddy Pass in Eagle County How to drive the Three Forks Road of Arizona? Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our to discover the most spectacular roads of the world Drive Us to Your Road! With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.
hardWhere is Big Pine Death Valley Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Get ready for a wild ride on the Big Pine Death Valley Road, deep in the heart of Death Valley National Park, California! This isn't your average Sunday drive—it's an adventure! Located in Inyo County, the road stretches for about 70 miles, connecting to Highway 168 near Zurich. It's a combo of Eureka Valley Road, Loretta Mine Road, and Waucoba Road, taking you through some seriously stunning desert landscapes. Heads up: this road can get snowy in winter, so pack those chains. And anytime of year, flash floods can cause washouts, so be prepared. Most of the road is unpaved, so expect a bumpy ride. The last stretch heading to Highway 168 is smooth pavement, but the rest is maintained gravel—think dust, washboard, and some rough patches thrown in for good measure. High-clearance vehicles are definitely recommended, especially after those infamous desert floods. This is one of Death Valley's more challenging backcountry routes. You'll climb to a whopping 7,657 feet above sea level. Remember, you're out in the boonies here, so come prepared! No services, possible large washouts in Eureka Valley and no camping is allowed. It's a desert out there, so make sure your car is ready. The scenery? Absolutely mind-blowing.
hardHow long is the access road to Kachina Peak?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trippers, let's talk Kachina Peak! You'll find this sky-high destination nestled in Taos County, New Mexico. Word on the street is it's one of the highest roads in the whole state. Heads up: This isn't your average scenic byway. It's actually a chairlift access road, so a little pre-planning is a must. Starting at the base, you'll climb about along a route. The elevation gain is a thigh-burner. Expect some pretty views, but remember this road gets seriously wild, and becomes totally impassable in winter. So plan your trip accordingly, and get ready for some unforgettable mountain vibes!