How to Climb Mt. Washington

Mount Washington is the highest peak in the Northeast United States, and many people claim that it has the "worst weather in the world." Climbing Mount Washington can be very challenging, especially during the winter months. For those who do wish to climb it, there are a variety of trails to choose from. People who want to see the summit but do not feel prepared to climb the mountain have several guided transportation options for getting to the top.

Things You'll Need

  • Parking pass
  • Weather-appropriate clothes
  • Winter mountaineering equipment (e.g., crampons, ice axe)
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Instructions

  1. Climbing the Mountain

    • 1

      Research the many trails on Mount Washington to decide which would be best for you. Tuckerman Ravine Trail is one of the shortest and most popular trails at 4.2 miles. Some trails are longer than Tuckerman but are a slightly easier climb, while others provide a bigger challenge for more experienced hikers.

    • 2

      Get a parking pass. Many of the parking lots for the most popular trails require parking passes. The prices vary, and depend on whether you want a seasonal pass or a daily pass. As of 2001 a daily pass cost $3.

    • 3

      Carefully climb the mountain. Consider what season it is; in winter you will need winter mountaineering equipment, but you can usually find snow-free hiking trails from May until October. Summer often means low visibility on the summit, but the skies are usually more clear during winter. Some people choose to take a different trail down the mountain than they did climbing up to gain more hiking experience and to see different scenic spots of the mountain.