Mount Washington Observatory Weather Station Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
30 minutes
Fitness Level
Accessible for most visitors as tours take place inside the summit facility with no hiking required.
Overview
Step inside one of the Northeast’s most challenging environments with a guided tour of the Mount Washington Observatory Weather Station. Meet the team behind extreme weather forecasts at 6,288 feet.
Mount Washington Observatory Weather Station Tours
Free for Observatory Members! | Public and Groups Welcome | 6 days a week!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of Mount Washington's weather station on a guided tour at 6,288 feet! Meet dedicated scientists, explore cutting-edge instruments, and learn about extreme weather forecasting. This unique opportunity runs six days a week, offering a memorable glimpse into life atop one of the most challenging environments.
Cost
- Mount Washington Observatory Members FREE for everyone in your household!
- Non-Members $17 per person (children ages five years and younger are free).
Available Times
- 6 Days a Week (No Wednesdays)
- 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm (If taking the Cog, please book 10:00 am train for 11:00 am tour, 12:00 pm train for 1:00 pm tour, 2:00 pm train for 3:00 pm tour)
Duration
- 30 Minutes
About
Go behind the scenes of our famous mountaintop weather station and get a taste for what it's like to work at 6,288 feet! These guided tours allow you to meet and interact with our scientists, learn how they create forecasts, see the instruments they use to capture Mount Washington's legendary extremes, and more.
Our weather station is located inside the Mt. Washington State Park Sherman Adams Visitor Center, so tours are available whenever the Visitor Center is open (generally mid-May through mid-October). Hours vary by month. Our mountaintop facility is a working weather station, so advanced reservations of at least 45 minutes are required. Visitors are responsible for providing their own transportation to the summit. Those visitors taking the Cog Railway to the summit must ensure they will reach the summit in time to make their reserved tour time (i.e. reserve the 10:00am Cog train to arrive at the summit for the 11:00 am tour, 12:00 pm train to for 1:00 pm tour, 2:00pm train for the 3:00pm tour). More information about the Cog Railway schedule can be found at their website. If you plan on driving up the Mt. Washington Auto Road, please allow at least 60 minutes to travel up the road from the base of the mountain in order to arrive on the summit in time for your tour.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early
Plan your trip to arrive at least 15 minutes before your tour to ensure check-in and account for weather-related delays.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures at the summit can be much colder than at the base; bring layers to stay warm in changing conditions.
Book Transit in Advance
If using the Cog Railway, coordinate train times closely with your tour start to avoid missing your spot.
Check Weather Forecasts
Summit weather can change rapidly; verify current conditions and closures before heading up.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bicknell’s thrush, a rare high-altitude bird
- Mountain goats occasionally spotted near summit ridges
History
The observatory has been collecting continuous weather data since 1932, marking nearly a century of pioneering meteorological science.
Conservation
The observatory emphasizes minimizing environmental impact on the fragile alpine ecosystem and promotes sustainable public access.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Insulated Jacket
Summit temperatures can be significantly colder and windier than the base.
spring|summer|fall specific
Sturdy Footwear
Whether arriving by car or train, solid shoes help with uneven terrain around the summit.
Sun Protection
High altitude sun exposure requires sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
summer|fall specific
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated before and after your tour, especially when traveling at elevation.