Mount Washington Cog Railway
“The Cog” as many fondly call it is the first mountain–climbing cog railway in the world. Located in the Presidential Mountain Range of New Hampshire, it is just six miles from the historic Mount Washington Resort and Bretton Woods village. Just three hours north of Boston, it is close to the main travel routes, but far enough to get away from it all. In operation since 1869, The Cog has a long history of innovation. It was registered as a National Historic Engineering Landmark in 1976.
The newly renovated Marshfield Base Station buzzes with activity, and is as picturesque as the mountain itself. Visitors watch train operations from the decks above while enjoying their lunch. The Cog Railway Museum is open to the public and free for all. Here visitors can learn the story of the “Railway to the Moon” and its great pioneering inventor, Sylvester Marsh. The Cog has maintained its historic roots by allowing passengers to take the three-hour round trip riding in a historic coach powered by a vintage coal-fired steam locomotive.
One can’t help experience a sense of adventure and history as the train begins the spectacular climb up a 3-mile-long track to the 6,288-foot summit of Mount Washington. Along the way, lively commentary is given from the brakemen about the many points of visual interest, the history of the railway and the various climate zones passengers will travel through on their journey to the top. The mountain-top facility houses restrooms, a cafeteria, gift shop and the Mount Washington Observatory’s Museum. There is an hour to enjoy a snack, explore and take in the spectacular panoramic view, spanning the peaks above the clouds.