Mt. Washington Auto Road Opens

The Mt. Washington Auto Road plans to resume daily operations, ahead of schedule, this Saturday, May 11th at 9:00 am. Guests can either drive themselves or enjoy a 2-Hour Guided Tour to the summit of the highest peak in the Northeast (6,288 feet) just in time to celebrate Mother's Day weekend. Traditionally, the Auto Road has only opened weekends before Memorial Day weekend. A strong 'Spring Clearing' effort by the MWAR Road Crew paired with less extreme weather conditions over the winter allow for daily operations to start two weeks early. This year marks the 163rd season for America's oldest man-made attraction.
First opened in 1861, the 7.6-mile Mt. Washington Auto Road winds its way from the Great Glen base area to the summit of Mount Washington at 6,288 feet, gaining 4,650 feet in elevation, and passing through four unique ecological zones. The mountain holds both the distinction of being the highest peak in the Northeast, as well as the home of the world’s worst weather. On clear days, visitors are treated to a spectacular view spanning up to 130 miles, reaching east to the Atlantic Ocean, and west as far as New York.
All guests are encouraged to check the Road Status & Weather website before visiting as weather can play a role in the operation of the Mt. Washington Auto Road. 

If you drive your own vehicle, you can stop as many times as you like using the many turn-outs provided, and spend as much time as you like on the mountain. That said, all traffic must start down the mountain 45 minutes after the official closing time at the base, and continue to the base. Check the New Hampshire State Park website for the opening date of the Sherman Adams building at the summit which is also home to the Mt. Washington Observatory.