Mount Washington Auto Road
Northeast's highest peak via America's oldest mountain toll road
The 7.6-mile Mount Washington Auto Road has been humbling drivers since 1861, climbing 4,618 vertical feet to the Northeast’s highest peak at 6,288 feet. This isn’t your typical mountain drive — the 12% grades, tight switchbacks, and complete exposure above treeline separate the confident from the cocky. The Alpine Garden section around Mile 6 offers stunning views across the Presidential Range before the final push to the summit weather station.
Moderate difficulty requires nothing more than good brakes, a reliable cooling system, and steady nerves. Any vehicle can make the climb, but the $39 toll and mandatory brake inspection at the halfway point remind you this road means business. Open roughly May through October depending on weather, with fog and 60+ mph winds common even in summer. The reward? Standing atop the most dangerous small mountain in America with views across three states on clear days.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Paved |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 7.6 mi / 12.2 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6288 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle with good brakes |
| Nearest town | Gorham, New Hampshire |
| Land manager | Mount Washington Auto Road Company |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Official sources | mountwashingtonautoroad.com |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need a lifted truck or 4WD to drive the Mount Washington Auto Road?
No — any passenger car can drive it, but your brakes must be in solid condition. The road is fully paved and the challenge is brake fade on the descent, not traction or clearance.
When does the Auto Road open and close each year?
Typically opens in mid-May and closes in late October, weather permitting. The summit sees extreme and rapidly changing conditions — the road can close on short notice any time of season due to high winds, fog, or ice.
Is there a fee to drive the Auto Road, and do I need a permit?
Yes, it's a private toll road. Current pricing runs around $35–$40 for a car and driver, plus a few dollars per additional passenger. No advance permit needed — pay at the gate.
What's the hardest part of this drive and what should I actually be worried about?
The descent is where most people get into trouble — overheated brakes from continuous pressure can lead to brake fade or failure. Use low gear going down, brake in intervals, and take the brake check stations seriously. The exposure on the upper sections with no guardrails also catches nervous drivers off guard.
Is there anywhere to get gas or food near the start, and what's cell service like on the road?
Gorham is your last reliable stop for gas before the Auto Road — fill up there. Cell service is spotty to nonexistent for most of the climb, though the summit has a visitor center with food, restrooms, and a weather observatory gift shop.
Trail track
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