There are tons of high peaks in New Hampshire, but hiking to the summit isn’t for everyone. In fact, hiking, in general, isn’t for everyone. Instead, we love the idea of driving comfortably to the top of some of the highest summits in the Granite State. The best way to do it? On the Mount Washington Auto Road. You’ve certainly heard of it — and maybe even done it — but did you know you can do it in the winter, too? Ditch your own car and take the Snow Coach!
The Mt. Washington Auto Road might be one of the most well-known attractions in New Hampshire.
Rob G / TripAdvisor
It offers scenic views that go for miles, as well as hair-raising turns that can make even the most experienced driver grip the wheel just a little bit tighter.
joleson / Flickr
Mt. Washington itself is one of the harshest environments in the world — with hurricane force winds that hit the summit three times every week, on average.
Greg M / TripAdvisor
It doesn’t take much time after summer ends for conditions to become formidable. And that certainly doesn’t put the prospect of a self-guided drive up a treacherous road high on many people’s must-do list.
mtwashington / Flickr
That’s why we love the SnowCoach, which is driven on 4 tracks rather than wheels.
White Mountains TV / YouTube
The SnowCoach is a van with room for about 12 people, though you can expect a maximum of about 7-9 people to make things most comfortable.
mtwashingtonautoroad.com/
These vans look like they’re meant to rove Mars, but they’re the best way to explore the Auto Road after it officially closes to road traffic in mid-October.
pand155 / TripAdvisor
And, the SnowCoaches are the only way to see the mountain in all its winter splendor.
mtwashington / Flickr
Each journey goes as far as the treeline on Mt. Washington, which is approximately 4,200 up from the base.
mtwashington / Flickr
Because the road isn’t fully plowed, you can feel and see the snow crunching beneath you as you journey up the mountain.
White Mountains TV / YouTube
On a clear day, you’ll be able to see for miles during this 1.5-hour trip!
mtwashington / Flickr
To see the SnowCoach in action, take a look at this video:
Rob G / TripAdvisor
joleson / Flickr
Greg M / TripAdvisor
mtwashington / Flickr
White Mountains TV / YouTube
mtwashingtonautoroad.com/
pand155 / TripAdvisor
The Mount Washington Auto Road is located at NH Route 16 in Pinkham Notch, New Hampshire, about 12 miles north of Jackson, and 8 miles south of Gorham.
The SnowCoach operates daily but is always weather permitting. If conditions are dangerous, the trip doesn’t happen. Tickets are $55 for adults/seniors and $30 for kids. If you’d like to take a sunrise trip, tickets are $99 for adults/seniors and $50 for kids. They offer deals on certain days and advance reservations are always recommended. Though, if you’d like to take your chances, walk-in ticket sales start at 8:30 a.m. For more information and the online calendar and reservation system, click here.
The next time you’re up at the summit, make sure you visit this interesting historic home. It’s right at the top and full of history.
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