Mount Washington Auto Road
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USA’s legendary drive to the clouds

Welcome to one of the most iconic mountain drives in North America! The Mount Washington Auto Road in New Hampshire offers breathtaking alpine scenery, thrilling switchbacks, and the chance to stand on the highest peak in the northeastern USA at 1,917 meters (6,288 feet). Whether you're a road trip lover, mountain enthusiast, or photography fan – this route is a must!

🚗 What to Expect

The Auto Road is a 12.2 km (7.6 mile) narrow mountain road that twists and climbs from the forested base all the way to the summit of Mount Washington. It’s steep, dramatic, and absolutely unforgettable. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with 360° panoramic views, often stretching into five states and Canada on clear days.

You can:

  • Drive your own car (if you're up for the challenge!)
  • Take a guided van tour (perfect for relaxing and learning from local guides)
  • Join special events like “Sunrise Drives” or biking challenges
  • Visit the Mount Washington Observatory at the summit
  • Hike one way and get a shuttle back for the ultimate adventure mix!


📍 Location

The base of the Auto Road starts in Gorham, New Hampshire, just off Route 16. It’s about 2.5 hours north of Boston and easily accessible by car. Open seasonally (usually late May to October), always check weather conditions before heading up – Mount Washington is known for its wild weather! ❄️🌬️☀️

📸 Top Highlights

  • Summit Views: On a clear day, the views are absolutely epic. Bring your camera!
  • Scenic Stops: Pull-offs along the route let you stop and take in the mountain air.
  • Alpine Landscape: Spot rare plants, dramatic rock formations, and maybe even a marmot!
  • Historic Significance: Opened in 1861, it’s America’s oldest man-made tourist attraction.


🧭 Tips for Your Trip

  • Go early to avoid traffic and secure the best lighting for photos.
  • Pack layers, even in summer – it can be 20°C colder at the summit!
  • Check your brakes – this drive is steep! Use low gear when descending.
  • Consider joining the “This Car Climbed Mount Washington” club with a sticker from the gift shop 🚙🎉


📅 Best Time to Visit

Late June to early October is the ideal window. In September, the fall foliage creates a vibrant mosaic of color 🍁🍂. For photographers, sunrise or sunset drives are absolutely magical.


🧳 Why Plan with Lambus?

With Lambus, you can:

  • 🗺️ Map out your scenic stops
  • 📍 Save important info like entrance fees, weather links & opening times
  • 🧾 Keep track of your receipts & tickets
  • 👫 Share the plan with your travel buddies
  • 📷 Organize your summit photos in one place


This adventure might only be 12 km long – but it's one you'll never forget. Plan your Mount Washington Auto Road journey today with Lambus and elevate your trip to the clouds! ☁️⛰️✨

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