The Mount Washington Cog Railway is on the Right Track
Ride the World's First Cog Railway to the Summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire
When New Hampshire businessman Sylvester Marsh nearly died in severe weather while hiking Mount Washington, he vowed to design and build a safer method for people of all ages and abilities to reach the summit. His vision became reality on July 3, 1869, when the world's first cog railway opened, turning a dangerous climb into an unforgettable adventure that continues to thrill visitors more than 150 years later.
Engineering Marvel on Steep Slopes
The Mount Washington Cog Railway conquers grades that would defeat ordinary trains through an ingenious "cog and rack" system that works like a massive bicycle sprocket and chain. Steel cogs beneath the locomotive grip a toothed rail between the tracks, while the trestle-mounted system safely navigates the mountain's rugged terrain and steep inclines.
Today's fleet consists primarily of powerful biodiesel locomotives designed, built, and maintained on-site at the railway's Marshfield Base Station. But the railway honors its steam heritage by operating two coal-fired engines during summer and fall seasons. These remarkable machines feature unusual slanted boilers designed to compensate for the mountain's steep grades - and both engines are still making the journey up the mountain after more than a century of operation.
A Journey Through Time and Weather
The three-hour round trip includes about an hour at the summit, where Mount Washington reveals why it's known as "Home of the World's Worst Weather." On clear days, passengers enjoy views spanning five states, the Atlantic Ocean, and southern Quebec. But many visitors experience the mountain's famous mood swings - perhaps an "undercast" where neighboring peaks emerge through layers of low-hanging clouds, or sudden weather changes that demonstrate why this peak holds the world record for strongest surface wind speed.
Knowledgeable brakemen and women narrate the journey, sharing stories about the railway's history and the mountain's notorious weather patterns. Passengers ride on specially designed bench seats that remain comfortable even on the steepest sections, in coaches that are heated during colder months and handcrafted by the railway's own carpenters.
Summit Adventures and Winter Alternatives
From late May through early October, trains reach the 6,288-foot summit where the Sherman Adams Visitor Center offers a rooftop observation deck and interactive weather exhibits. The historic Tip Top House Museum, built in 1853, provides glimpses into the mountain's hospitality history. Visitors can grab a meal at the cafeteria, browse two gift shops, and even send postcards with the unique Mount Washington postmark from the summit post office.
During winter months from late October through early May, when summit facilities close, trains travel to the newly expanded Waumbek Station at 4,000 feet. This cold-weather destination features elevated observation decks, warming huts, and a cozy firepit where complimentary hot refreshments help visitors stay warm while enjoying panoramic views from the southern Presidential Range to northern Vermont.
Base Station Discoveries
The adventure begins at Marshfield Base Station, situated at 2,700 feet as the highest year-round, full-service facility on the mountain. The free Cog Railway Museum showcases the railway's fascinating history, while a wraparound deck provides excellent views of both the mountain and arriving trains - especially spectacular at sunset.
Around the property, visitors can examine vintage steam equipment and "Peppersass," the railway's original 1866 locomotive whose vertical boiler reminded early workers of a peppersauce bottle. The most unusual piece might be the snow-clearing equipment - essentially a retired jet engine mounted on train wheels that blasts snow off the tracks with impressive force.
Winter visitors find Marshfield Station serves as a gateway to statewide snowmobile trail networks, popular hiking routes, and backcountry skiing and snowshoeing opportunities alongside the railway tracks. The base station operates seven days a week year-round, closing only on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
The Mount Washington Cog Railway proves that the best adventures often combine historical innovation with natural wonder. Whether you're marveling at century-old steam engines, experiencing the mountain's legendary weather, or simply enjoying the views from New England's highest peak, this railway journey delivers memories that last long after you've returned to solid ground.
For schedules, tickets, and current weather conditions, visit https://www.thecog.com.
