Mount Washington Auto Road
United States, north-america
12 km
1,917 m
hard
May-October (road closed in winter to private vehicles)
# Mount Washington Auto Road: A Classic New England Adventure
Ready for one of America's most iconic drives? The Mount Washington Auto Road is a wild 12-kilometer ride up New Hampshire's Presidential Range to the 1,917-meter summit—and trust me, it's an unforgettable experience.
This gem has been drawing adventurers since 1861, when it first opened as a carriage road. That makes it one of the oldest tourist attractions in the US, and for good reason. The road doesn't mess around: you're looking at an average grade of 12% with some sections hitting a brutal 22%. By the time you reach the top, you'll have climbed over 1,400 meters of pure elevation gain.
Here's where it gets wild: Mount Washington holds the world record for the highest wind speed ever directly measured on Earth—a bonkers 372 km/h recorded way back in April 1934. Even on supposedly "nice" summer days, you'll feel why this mountain demands respect.
The real drama kicks in above the 1,200-meter mark, where you break through the treeline into the alpine zone. Conditions up here can flip in minutes—literally. But when the weather cooperates? The summit views are absolutely spectacular, stretching across four states, Quebec, and all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. This drive is equal parts adrenaline rush and scenic masterpiece.
Where is it?
Mount Washington Auto Road is located in New Hampshire, United States (north-america). Coordinates: 44.2706, -71.3033
Driving Tips
# Mount Washington Drive Tips
Before you head up, definitely check the weather and road status first – this road actually closes when winds get too gnarly, so you'll want to know ahead of time if you can make the trip.
When you're coming down, use a low gear to help slow you down naturally. Seriously, don't just ride your brakes the whole way – that'll overheat them and isn't fun for anyone.
Here's a nice bonus: your toll gets you an audio tour to listen to while you drive, plus you'll snag one of those cool "This Car Climbed Mt. Washington" bumper stickers for your car. Pretty neat souvenir.
If those steep grades are making you nervous, no shame in it – they offer a guided van tour option where you can just sit back and let someone else handle the driving. Sometimes that's the way to go!
Road Surface
Paved lower section, gravel upper section, steep grades
Road Details
- Country
- United States
- Continent
- north-america
- Region
- New Hampshire
- Length
- 12 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,917 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Surface
- Paved lower section, gravel upper section, steep grades
- Best Season
- May-October (road closed in winter to private vehicles)
- Coordinates
- 44.2706, -71.3033
Related Roads in north-america
extremeWhere Is Patriarch Grove?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, California dreamers, listen up! Want to see the oldest trees on earth? Then point your GPS towards Patriarch Grove, nestled way up high in the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. We're talking a lung-busting 11,335 feet! This place is in east-central Cali, practically hugging the Nevada border, and boasts some seriously unique scenery. Oh, and did I mention it's home to the Patriarch Tree, the *world's* biggest bristlecone pine? Heads up, though: this spot is REMOTE. Think no cell service, no gas stations, nada. Pack accordingly! The road in is only about a mile long (starting at Schulman Grove), but it's a rough one. Seriously, ditch the Prius and bring something with high clearance – this is an unpaved, rocky track that'll have your tires screaming for mercy if you’re not careful. Slow and steady wins the race (around 15 mph is suggested!). Also, keep in mind this road is seasonal. Usually, you can get through from mid-May to late November, but winter brings some serious snow (up to 13 feet!), shutting things down. Always check conditions before you head out. Trust me, the ancient trees and stunning views are worth the bumpy ride, just be prepared for a true off-the-grid adventure!
moderateWhere is Connors Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through central Nevada, smack-dab in White Pine County, on the legendary "Loneliest Highway in America" (aka US-50/US-6/US-93). You're about to hit Connors Pass, a sweet spot that tops out at 7,729 feet! This fully paved beauty stretches for almost 27 miles between Ely and Majors Place, winding through the stunning Schell Creek Range. The views? Epic! Think endless vistas and that wide-open Nevada sky. Now, it's not all smooth sailing. Expect some pretty steep climbs – we're talking up to 8% grades in sections – and a fair share of curves to keep things interesting. Just south of the main pass, keep an eye out for a rugged gravel road that shoots up to a communication facility. It's a short but seriously steep climb, averaging 6.55% with a max gradient of 10%, and not for the faint of heart, but those brave enough will be rewarded with even more incredible views! Connors Pass is the highest point on US 93 and US 50 in Nevada. Get ready for a memorable drive!
moderateDriving the haunted Crawford Road in Virginia
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, thrill-seekers, buckle up because we're heading to Crawford Road in York County, Virginia, just east of Richmond! This isn't your average scenic drive; it's a 3.6-mile (5.79km) stretch of pavement packed with eerie legends and ghostly tales. Think winding, dark, and seriously shaded – the kind of road where you're the only car for miles. And speaking of miles, forget streetlights; it's pure, unadulterated countryside. Crawford Road, or Road 637 as it's also known, runs from Goosley Road to Yorktown Road. The real star of the show is the infamous "Crybaby Bridge," where the legend of a bride who met a tragic end lives on. Stories say she ran from her wedding and… well, things didn't end well. Now, drivers claim to spot her in their rearview mirrors, forever reliving her final moments. Some even whisper about connections to the KKK. But here's the kicker: legend has it that if you're brave (or foolish) enough to kill your engine and lights under the bridge, you'll be greeted by voices and… let's just say some seriously unhappy spirits. Angry dead slaves will be hanging from the bridge and trees, and you will be paranormally attacked somehow. Word to the wise: Crawford Road is remote! Break down, and you're on your own for a while. Maybe skip this one after dark unless you're *really* looking for a scare.
moderateWhy Are There No Roads in Greenland?
🌍 Greenland
Okay, Greenland might be the coolest place you'll never drive across! Seriously, this massive island between the Arctic and Atlantic is all mountains, fjords, and glaciers, so forget road trips between towns – they just don't exist. So, why no roads? Well, imagine trying to build a highway across a landscape that's mostly rock and ice. Greenland's got a tiny population of around 56,000, spread out in little villages along the coast. Plus, throw in an ice cap that covers 80% of the island and permafrost that makes the ground super unstable. It's a builder's nightmare! But get this: there *is* one paved road. Just one! This hidden gem is in southwest Greenland, winding 4.5 km (2.8 mi) from Ivittuut, an old mining town near Cape Desolation, up to Kangilinnguit, which used to be a naval base. It's a short stretch, but expect it to be snowed in and closed during the winter.