This 6,288 peak, the highest in the northeastern United States, claims the dubious distinction of having the worst weather on earth. It is not a large mountain by world standards, however, its unique location causes it to sometimes experience weather extremes such as those found in polar regions, or by other mountains 3 or 4 times as high. On April 12, 1934, the ground wind speed atop Mt. Washington was recorded at 231 mph (372 kph), an all time world record that still stands.
There is an auto road to the top of Mt. Washington where you will find an observatory, gift shop, snacks, and restrooms. Built in 1861, this "Road to the Sky" was an unprecedented enginering achievement and became America's first man-made attraction. I took my son, Jeromy, up Mount Washington in mid June, just after he had graduated from High School. The views of the Presidential Range, White Mountains National Forest, and beyond were spectacular. As we started up the mountain it was clear and the temperature was around 70F. Just before we reached the summit a stiff wind blew a cloud cover across the sky and snow began to fall. Or actually the snow blew by horizontally in a blustery cold wind. When weather permits, the auto road is open from early May 'till late October.
Mt. Washington is also a popular hike, but not one to be taken lightly. Many have perished on its slopes because they were not prepared for the sudden dramatic changes in weather that can happen here. A cog railway also ascends the mountain, but I have saved that for a future trip.
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