Mount Washington Cog Railway

About

The Mount Washington Cog Railway has been carrying passengers to the 6,288-foot summit of Mount Washington since 1869, making it the world's first mountain-climbing cog railway. This remarkable feat of engineering climbs roughly 3,750 feet over about three miles of track, with grades as steep as 37.4 percent. It's one of New Hampshire's most iconic attractions and a must-visit destination in the White Mountains.

The roughly three-hour round trip includes time at the summit, where visitors can take in panoramic views stretching across four states and into Canada on clear days. The railway operates both historic steam locomotives and modern biodiesel engines. Steam trains offer a nostalgic experience complete with coal smoke and cinder, while biodiesel coaches provide a smoother, enclosed ride with large windows.

At the summit, the Mount Washington State Park Visitor Center offers exhibits about the mountain's famously extreme weather, a small museum, and a snack bar. Mount Washington once held the world record for the fastest wind speed ever recorded on Earth's surface, at 231 miles per hour. The summit experience gives visitors a real sense of the mountain's wild and dramatic character.

The Base Station at the bottom features a gift shop, restaurant, and exhibits about the railway's history. The surrounding White Mountain National Forest offers additional hiking, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing. The railway typically operates from late April through November, with fall foliage season being especially popular. Advance reservations are strongly recommended during peak times.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for an unforgettable mountain experience without the strenuous hike, the Cog Railway delivers something truly special.

Accessibility

The Base Station building and the Mount Washington State Park Visitor Center at the summit are both fully accessible. These facilities provide level entry and accessible restrooms for visitors with mobility needs.

The passenger coaches are historic in design, featuring three steps up to the boarding deck, narrow aisles, and narrow doorways. This means boarding requires the ability to climb steps, and wheelchairs cannot be used onboard the train. Staff may offer light assistance to passengers who can walk but need some support, such as those using canes.

If space is available, the railway will transport folding wheelchairs or walkers on the train for use at the summit. The railway can also provide a wheelchair for visitor use at the summit. However, due to space and weight limitations, motorized wheelchairs cannot be transported on the train. Steam engine trains do not have wheelchair seating of any kind.

Visitors with mobility considerations should be aware that the summit area itself includes uneven terrain and exposed conditions. Weather at the top can change rapidly and temperatures are significantly colder than at the base. Planning ahead and dressing in layers is important for comfort and safety.

For the most current accessibility information, including any recent improvements or accommodations for visitors with sensory or cognitive disabilities, contact the Mount Washington Cog Railway directly before planning your visit. Their staff can help coordinate any assistance needed for boarding and the summit experience.

More accessible places in New Hampshire

• Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park (Cornish)
• Jackson (Mount Washington Valley) (Jackson)
• Currier Museum of Art (Manchester)
• McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center (Concord)
• SEE Science Center (Manchester)
• Strawbery Banke Museum (Portsmouth)