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Mountain train · North Conway, New Hampshire
Mount Washington Cog Railway
The world’s first mountain cog railway, opened in 1869, which climbs 4.8 km up Mount Washington’s west slope, with sections up to 37% grade.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Mount Washington Cog Railway
The Mount Washington Cog Railway began carrying passengers in 1868 and was completed to the summit in 1869, becoming the world’s first mountain cog railway. The system uses a cogwheel that engages a central rack rail, allowing it to climb grades up to 37%. The line is about 4.8 km long.
The train departs from the base station in Bretton Woods and climbs the west slope in roughly an hour, passing a curved wooden bridge called Jacob's Ladder, one of the steepest points. Most trips use biodiesel locomotives; some departures use steam locomotives, which emit dark smoke and take longer.
At the top, the typical stop is about an hour to visit the state park building, the observatory and the Tip-Top House. The round-trip trip takes around three hours.
Outside the summit season, in late fall and winter, the train climbs only as far as Waumbek station, about 1,200 meters, where you can see the snow-covered range.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About three hours for the round-trip to the summit, with a one-hour stop.
Best time
From mid-spring to mid-October to reach the summit, on clear days. In late September and early October, the forest colors at the base are usually at their peak. In fog the summit may have no view.
How to get there
The base station is on Base Station Road in Bretton Woods, about 50 km from North Conway via Crawford Notch and about 50 km from Lincoln. A car is required. Tickets are paid and sold for specific departure times; check the current schedule.
Tip
Buy tickets in advance on summer and foliage weekends. Bring warm clothing: it’s much colder at the summit than at the base station.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mount Washington Cog Railway
How long is the Mount Washington cog railway ride?
About one hour to go up and less to come down, with an hour at the summit: the full trip takes around three hours.
Is the Mount Washington train steam-powered?
Most trips use biodiesel locomotives, but there are departures with steam locomotives at some times. Check when buying tickets.
Does the cog railway operate in winter?
Yes, but in winter it only goes as far as Waumbek station, partway up the mountain, because the summit is closed.