Mount Washington Cog Railway Tours and Activities

Mount Washington Cog Railway showing railway items
Mount Washington Cog Railway showing railway items as well as a large group of people
Mount Washington Cog Railway showing railway items
Mount Washington Cog Railway which includes tranquil scenes and railway items
Mount Washington Cog Railway which includes railway items

Hop aboard the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway and traverse up Mount Washington to New England’s highest peak.

The Mount Washington Cog Railway takes you on a spectacular journey to the highest peak in the northeastern United States. Sit back, relax and enjoy spectacular views of the White Mountains as you scale some of the steepest railroad tracks in North America.

Begin your journey at the Marshfield Base Station in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire. After you purchase your ticket, explore the station to inspect the exhibits in the Cog Railway Museum and look for souvenirs in the gift shop. If you're hungry, have a snack in the station's restaurant.

The trip to the summit of Mount Washington takes about an hour each way. Along the ride, listen to the train's brakemen regaling you with stories and pointing out interesting sights.

At the top, disembark and explore the summit for one hour. Enjoy a panoramic view stretching to Canada and the Atlantic Ocean on very clear days. Learn about the area and its history at the Mount Washington Observatory and Museum. Meet back at the summit station for your trip down the mountain.

Boarding begins 15 minutes prior to departure time. Seating is first-come, first-served, so get in line early if you want to sit in a specific spot.

Purchase your ticket beforehand online or at the base station’s ticket counter. Discounted tickets are available for children, senior citizens and military personnel. The ticket includes admission to the Mount Washington Observatory and Museum.

Rain, snow or shine, trains typically run on the half hour between late April and October, with weekend trains during November, weather permitting. Catch the last train departing at mid to late afternoon, depending on the season.

Many of the trains are now powered by biodiesel. If you want a trip through time, reserve a spot aboard the coal-fired steam engine train. The steamer has a limited schedule and usually runs early in the morning.

Make sure you bring a camera and clothing layers for your train ride. The summit's beautiful views are often accompanied by weather conditions that vary drastically from those at the base.

Plan a trip to see Mount Washington Cog Railway

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Outbound Stowe

Outbound Stowe

3.5 out of 5
per person
Oct 7 - Oct 10
found 11 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Buffalo (BUF) to Burlington (BTV)
9/10 Wonderful! (149 reviews)
We were not impressed with the room location or perhaps it’s just the lack of insulation between rooms, but you could hear everything. The restaurant was in our building and constant noise. Neighbors had children with constant noise.

Reviewed on Jul. 25, 2025

Smugglers' Notch Resort Private Suites

Smugglers' Notch Resort Private Suites

3.5 out of 5
per person
Oct 7 - Oct 10
found 11 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Buffalo (BUF) to Burlington (BTV)
7.8/10 Good! (17 reviews)
AWOL Stowe

AWOL Stowe

3.5 out of 5
per person
Oct 7 - Oct 10
found 11 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Buffalo (BUF) to Burlington (BTV)
9/10 Wonderful! (152 reviews)
Beds are lumpy and extremely and painfully soft. Room keys deactivate when in the pocket with a cell phone or AirPods. Air in room dusty and the grounds are gravel and flood in the rain. They did not have extra pillows. The staff were excellent and friendly and awesome. Beautiful breakfast. Big issues with the bed, the softness also caused the feet area to be higher than the sunken area peoples heads and bodies are. Very strange

Reviewed on Jul. 19, 2025

Popular places to visit

Mount Washington State Park which includes forests, mountains and autumn leaves

Mount Washington State Park

Whether you explore it by car, train or foot, this park located at the summit of Mount Washington promises beautiful scenery and breathtaking views.

Mount Washington State Park
Tuckerman Ravine

Tuckerman Ravine

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Tuckerman Ravine during your travels in Sargent's Purchase. Discover the area's waterfalls and mountain views.

Tuckerman Ravine
Wildcat Mountain Ski Area

Wildcat Mountain Ski Area

Hit the slopes in Gorham with a visit to Wildcat Mountain Ski Area. Amble around this romantic area's lush forest, or seek out the hiking trails.

Wildcat Mountain Ski Area
Mt. Washington Auto Road

Mt. Washington Auto Road

Learn about the local history of Green's Grant when you take a trip to Mt. Washington Auto Road. Amble around this romantic area's lush forest, or seek out the hiking trails.

Mt. Washington Auto Road

Mount Washington

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Mount Washington during your travels in Sargent's Purchase. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the area's waterfalls.

Mount Washington

Hermit Lake

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Hermit Lake during your travels in Sargent's Purchase. Discover the area's waterfalls and mountain views.

Hermit Lake

Best Lodging Options Near Mount Washington Cog Railway

Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa

Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa

4 out of 5
310 Mt Washington Hotel Rd, Bretton Woods, NH
Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa
Townhomes at Bretton Woods

Townhomes at Bretton Woods

3.5 out of 5
310 Mt. Washington Hotel Drive, Bretton Woods, NH
Townhomes at Bretton Woods
Omni Bretton Arms Inn at Mount Washington

Omni Bretton Arms Inn at Mount Washington

4 out of 5
173 Mount Washington Road, Bretton Woods, NH
Omni Bretton Arms Inn at Mount Washington
Chill Out up North for the 4th! We have A/C!!

Chill Out up North for the 4th! We have A/C!!

Carroll
Chill Out up North for the 4th! We have A/C!!
Room, 4 Bunks, Shared Bathroom

Room, 4 Bunks, Shared Bathroom

Bretton Woods
Room, 4 Bunks, Shared Bathroom
Room, Queen, 2 Bunks with Private Bathroom

Room, Queen, 2 Bunks with Private Bathroom

Bretton Woods
Room, Queen, 2 Bunks with Private Bathroom
Luxury home, walk to Mt Wash Hotel! Pool/gym passes, stunning views, AC!

Luxury home, walk to Mt Wash Hotel! Pool/gym passes, stunning views, AC!

Bretton Woods
Luxury home, walk to Mt Wash Hotel! Pool/gym passes, stunning views, AC!
Room, Queen, 2 Bunks with Private Bathroom ADA

Room, Queen, 2 Bunks with Private Bathroom ADA

Bretton Woods
Room, Queen, 2 Bunks with Private Bathroom ADA
Room, Queen, Shared Bathrooms

Room, Queen, Shared Bathrooms

Bretton Woods
Room, Queen, Shared Bathrooms
See all 412 properties in Mount Washington Cog Railway
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Mount Washington Cog Railway

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mount Washington Cog Railway, where you can enjoy hiking, skiing, and wildlife watching. Explore various attractions, embark on hour-long trips, and experience thrilling mountain adventures. Don't miss the chance to hike scenic trails and take a tour of the weather station, immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes of Thompson and Meserve's Purchase, New Hampshire.

Shopping

While visiting Mount Washington Cog Railway, you can check out Berlin Farmers Market, located 25.7km away, offering a vibrant local shopping experience. If you're up for a drive, Settlers' Green Outlet Village and Northway Plaza Shopping Center are both 33.8km away, featuring a variety of shops for gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Experience luxury at the Omni Mount Washington Resort, where you can indulge in spa treatments and unwind in the serene surroundings. For outdoor enthusiasts, Tuckerman Ravine offers beautiful hiking trails that promote wellness and relaxation while immersing you in nature's beauty.

Adventure

Experience thrilling adventures at the Bretton Woods Ski Area, a ski field located 8.0km from the Cog Railway, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. Explore the Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center, 9.7km away, for exciting water sports and outdoor activities. Enjoy skiing at the Learning Center Ski Lift, also 8.0km distant.

Nightlife

The nightlife near Mount Washington Cog Railway offers a mix of entertainment and adventure. The Weathervane Theatre presents captivating performances, while the Nor'Easter Mountain Coaster and Attitash Alpine Slide provide thrilling rides, perfect for those seeking excitement after dark.

Find the best attractions near Mount Washington Cog Railway

For a memorable vacation at Mount Washington Cog Railway in Thompson and Meserve's Purchase, New Hampshire, explore a variety of attractions such as theme parks, waterfalls, and national state parks. This destination is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, offering thrilling adventures and scenic experiences. Don't miss the opportunity to learn more about the Mount Washington Cog Railway and indulge in its breathtaking beauty and unique charm.

  • Mount Washington State Park: This stunning park, located 3.2km from the Cog Railway, offers breathtaking views and a variety of outdoor adventures. You can explore scenic trails, enjoy picnicking, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
  • Mount Washington: Just 3.2km away, this iconic peak is known for its dramatic weather and picturesque scenery. Hiking enthusiasts will find numerous trails, while the summit provides exhilarating vistas that are simply unforgettable.
  • Mt. Washington Auto Road: Located 9.7km from the Cog Railway, this scenic drive offers a unique city vibe combined with stunning mountain views. It’s perfect for those who prefer to take in the landscape from the comfort of their vehicle.

Best time to go to Mount Washington Cog Railway

The best time to visit Mount Washington Cog Railway can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Mount Washington Cog Railway falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Mount Washington Cog Railway falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January16.3°F (-8.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February18.5°F (-7.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
March26.8°F (-2.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April38.8°F (3.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
May52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
June60.6°F (15.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July66.7°F (19.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
August64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October45.9°F (7.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
November33.1°F (0.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
December23.5°F (-4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mount Washington Cog Railway

To save money on your visit to Mount Washington Cog Railway, consider travelling during the off-peak months of March to May when accommodation prices are lower. Tuesdays typically offer the best rates for stays, while Saturdays are more expensive. Utilize Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly hotels, including eco-certified options. Look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Don't miss nearby free attractions like Mount Washington and Jackson Falls to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Mount Washington Cog Railway are March to May, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February, August and October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Mount Washington Cog Railway is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Mount Washington Cog Railway is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget and choose your ideal location, among other preferences. You can easily sort your results from lowest to highest price, ensuring that you find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will display sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You may find it beneficial to save some money by combining your hotel reservation for the Mount Washington Cog Railway with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.