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 |
| 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
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