Mount Washington Observatory
Perched at 6,288 feet on Mount Washington’s summit, this working weather station has recorded some of the planet’s most extreme conditions since 1932. The small white buildings house meteorological equipment and staff quarters, while the observation deck offers commanding views across New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont on clear days. The iconic weather station recorded the highest surface wind speed ever measured by humans in April 1934.
Accessible via the Mount Washington Auto Road (toll road, seasonal) or the Cog Railway. The observatory offers guided tours during summer months, but verify schedule and weather conditions before making the drive. Summit weather can change rapidly — bring warm layers even in summer.
World's windiest place with a view.
Place Details
| Type | Point of Interest |
|---|---|
| Street address | Crawford Path / Gulfside Trail, New Hampshire 03589 Get directions → |
| Elevation (ft) | 6288 ft |
| Nearest town | North Conway, NH |
| Miles from pavement | 8 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Paved |
| Cell service | None |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | $39.00 / night |
| Reservation required | No |
| Best season | May-October |
| Land manager | State Land |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Toilets |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |