Mount Washington Cog Railway

Mount Washington's Cog Railway was a marvel of engineering when it opened in 1869, and it remains so today. Part moving museum, part slow-motion roller-coaster ride, the Cog Railway steams to the mountain's summit at a determined, "I think I can" pace of about 4 mph. But you'll still get some adrenaline thrills, especially when the train crosses Jacob's Ladder, a rickety-seeming trestle 25-feet high that angles upward at a grade of more than 37%. Passengers enjoy the expanding view on this 3-hour round-trip (which includes important stops to add water to the steam engine, check the track switches, and allow other trains to ascend or descend). A 20-minute stop at the summit allows you to browse around. Be aware that this ride is noisy, breezy, and sulfurous. Don't wear white. If you dress warmly in a jacket and sweater, and expect to get covered with a light patina of cinder and soot, you'll be okay. There's now also a shorter, 1-hour ride, operating twice daily all winter, through the lovely, snow-covered vistas.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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