Tucked away on the less-traveled flank of New Hampshire’s highest peak, the Ammonoosuc Ravine and West Side of Mount Washington offer a refreshing take on classic White Mountain adventure. Here, climbers and mountaineers alike can escape the bustling east side to find open bowls, wind-scoured ridges, and alpine routes that favor patience and experience. The vibe is different on this side—raw, quieter, and deeply rooted in big mountain tradition.

What draws explorers to the West Side isn’t always the sheer number of routes but the variety of terrain waiting after a short but spirited approach. The Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail acts as your gateway, cutting efficiently through dense forest to reveal broad, sweeping slopes that rise to meet the sky. Snowfields and open terrain dominate the view above treeline, offering both challenge and inspiration, especially when the ever-present northwest winds sculpt firm, reliable mountaineering conditions. This exposure means routes here take longer to come into shape each winter, but when they do, the snow is solid underfoot and the air bracingly crisp—a perfect formula for those who value solid, dependable alpine conditions without the crowds.

For those eyeing a ski descent or simply looking for a classic ascent, Monroe Brook and Burt Ravine provide inviting lines that wind down between granite outcrops, transforming the landscape into a playground for careful step-kicking or tight turns. The west aspect means sunlight can linger on clear afternoons, but don’t be fooled—those same prevailing winds that load snow onto the east often leave the west-side slopes scoured and firm. Travel here is both a test and a reward, particularly after fresh storms, with timing crucial for safety and enjoyment.

Among the area’s classic outings, Monroe Brook Slide stands out. Awarded three stars in local lore, this route blends moderate climbing with magnificent alpine ambiance, letting climbers trace frozen flows and glistening rock far from the main summit crowds. The views sweep out across the Pemigewasset Wilderness, rewarding effort with grand perspectives that stretch for miles. Routes here aren’t littered with fixed gear—your alpine savvy matters far more. For many, it’s this sense of self-reliance and discovery that marks the West Side as a destination for those who want the mountain on its own terms.

Access is straightforward but has its quirks. Most will park at the Cog Railway station, where a land use permit is required for trailhead parking close to the tracks. From here, a relatively quick hike leads to the start of the day’s endeavors. Elevated at 3,634 feet, you’re in high mountain territory sooner than you might expect, so prepare for sudden weather changes and shifting snowpack conditions.

What can you expect as you ascend? Open bowls transform into technical navigations over windboard, ice, or occasional powder stashes. The terrain invites efficient movement, and the rise from trailhead to ridge is as aesthetically pleasing as it is demanding. For mountaineers, the balance of solitude and adventure found here can rival any spot in the Northeast—while for skiers, spring brings its own window of opportunity as the snow turns forgiving and corn cycles reward the early riser.

Planning a visit to the Ammonoosuc Ravine and West Side isn’t about chasing grades or ticking a list; it’s about embracing the wild character of Mount Washington in its most natural state. Whether your goal is a classic like Monroe Brook Slide or simply the experience of forging your own line above the trees, come prepared, move smart, and let the landscape guide your next move. With the right mindset, the west side transforms from a quieter alternative into a proving ground for true mountain adventure.