There are plenty of drives you can take in the Granite State that will lead you to incredible views and extra-special destinations. The last few months of social-distancing have allowed us to hop in the car and experience things we normally would not have prioritized. And we’re pretty thankful for that! But this drive might be the granddaddy of them all! While not particularly long, the route is twisty and turn-y, offering incredible views and a few moments of chills.
To take one of the most beautiful drives in New Hampshire, make your way to the base of Mt. Washington in Jackson. Once you get there you can’t miss the sign! The history of the route dates back to the middle of the nineteenth century.
Becky H / TripAdvisor
Plans to build a hotel at the summit of Mount Washington made the construction of the road a necessity. The best part? It was built without modern machinery! All supplies had to be carried in by people or animals, and blasting was done with black powder. It took about 9 years and the road was opened in 1961.
Mt. Washington Auto Road
Today, the road is meant to be a scenic way for visitors to get to the summit. You’ll begin your adventure at the booth where you’ll pay the fee, get your audio guide to play and your souvenir car sticker.
ed newell / Google
Things start relatively easily. You’ll be surrounded by a forest that is bright green in the spring and summer and ablaze with colors in the fall.
Daddy And Caleb / TripAdvisor
Soon enough the climbing begins! If you’re visiting on a clear day the views will go on for miles. But remember that conditions at the top can be much different than at the bottom. So starting on a sunny day doesn’t necessarily mean it won’t be frigid on the way up.
Karen C / TripAdvisor
As the road continues the audio guide will tell you exactly what you’re looking at when you look beyond the road.
Ellie S / TripAdvisor
Soon the twists and turns become more dramatic and those will a fear of heights might start to feel a lump in their throat.
Nick P / TripAdvisor
But keep on going! There are lots of places to pull over and spend some extra time with the views.
White Mountains, New Hampshire / TripAdvisor
Eventually, you’ll be above the tree line and you might feel like you’re parallel with the clouds. In fact, on some days you’ll be in the clouds!
Karen C / TripAdvisor
About 8-miles from where you started you’ll reach the top and it will feel otherworldly. Rocky and chilly (yes, even in the summer!), this is an experience you won’t find anywhere else. Spend some time checking out the museum and the small house meant for hikers at the top.
PumaPaws / TripAdvisor Note that the observatory museum is closed during the 2020 season, but will hopefully re-open next season. When you’re done, simply get back into the car and make your way back to the bottom!
To learn more about driving yourself to the summit of Mount Washington using the Auto Road, check out the website here. You can learn more about Mount Washington here. You don’t need a reservation, but admission to the road is $35 for one car and drive and $10 for each additional person in the car. Right now the observatory museum is not open and rest rooms are portable toilets outside.
Becky H / TripAdvisor
Mt. Washington Auto Road
ed newell / Google
Daddy And Caleb / TripAdvisor
Karen C / TripAdvisor
Ellie S / TripAdvisor
Nick P / TripAdvisor
White Mountains, New Hampshire / TripAdvisor
PumaPaws / TripAdvisor
Note that the observatory museum is closed during the 2020 season, but will hopefully re-open next season. When you’re done, simply get back into the car and make your way back to the bottom!
There are more vehicle adventures you can have in the Granite State! These 7 beautiful byways in New Hampshire are perfect for a scenic drive.
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Address: Mt Washington Auto Rd, Jackson, NH, USA
