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
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