One of the most notable features in New Hampshire is stately Mount Washington. Standing at 6,288 feet, it’s the tallest peak in the Northeast and it’s also one of the most beautiful. While you can summit this beautiful mountain by hiking or even by driving, there’s one truly unique way to see it that’s truly lovely.
The Cog Railway departs from far down below the base of Mount Washington in Bretton Woods, heading off on a three-hour journey to the top and then back down to the bottom.
string_bass_dave / Flickr
The route covers about three miles on the western flank of the mountain, which provides one of the best ways to marvel at New Hampshire’s Presidential Range.
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This might look like a small little-engine-that-could, but in reality the Cog Railway’s track is the second steepest in the world!
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The rails average a grade of about 25%, with the steepest grade coming in at 37%.
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But, while steep, this train is perfectly fine for kids and adults of all ages.
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The railway is also the oldest of its kind in the world, making its first ascent of the summit back in 1869.
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Riders have the option of choosing to take their trip on traditional coal steam engines or bio-diesel engines.
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Once visitors have arrived at the summit of the Mount Washington, it’s time to depart and explore! While there, it’s fun to visit the museum to get a good sense of the history of both the mountain and the railway.
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And, of course, you can’t miss the sweeping views from here. If the weather conditions are right, you just might be able to see the Atlantic Ocean.
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After the hour, you’ll head back down to the base of the mountain. With the steep grades and even more views, this might be the most adventurous part of the journey!
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The Mount Washington Cog Railway is located at 3168 Base Station Rd., Bretton Woods, New Hampshire. Trains depart every hour on the half hour. Tickets are $41 for children 4 to 12, $78 for adults 13 to 64, $72 for seniors and $51 if you’re a hiker just looking for a one way ride to take yourself down on your own two legs. For more information, visit the official website here.
string_bass_dave / Flickr
irenetong / Flickr
ianbruce / Flickr
remedy451 / Flickr
bert_m_b / Flickr
Nick / Flickr
archer10 / Flickr
mouser-nerdbot / Flickr
atcshep / Flickr
If we’ve piqued the train-lover part of you, you might want to consider heading off on this glorious road trip. It will take you to some of the best train-themed attractions in New Hampshire and it even includes the Cog Railway.
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