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.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
30 minutes
Fitness Level
Accessible for most visitors as tours take place inside the summit facility with no hiking required.
Wildlife
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.
Mount Washington Observatory
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 is a scientific organization based in Conway, New Hampshire, that operates the weather station at the summit of Mount Washington, at 6,288 feet. It provides public access to extreme weather science through guided Weather Station Tours and specialized training programs.
The Observatory's Weather Station Tours run six days a week and offer visitors the chance to meet dedicated scientists, explore cutting-edge instruments, and learn about forecasting practices used in one of the most challenging environments in the northeastern United States.
In addition to public tours, the Observatory partners with Memorial Hospital and SOLO Wilderness Medical School to deliver the Mount Washington Observatory Overnight Medical Training Program for Youth Educators. This immersive overnight program at the summit weather station equips staff from youth-serving organizations with Wilderness First Aid certifications and hands-on experience tailored for outdoor youth activities.
The Observatory emphasizes safety, scientific rigor, and practical training. Visitors to the summit encounter real operational instruments and professional staff who collect weather data and share forecasting insights. Program participants gain certified medical skills relevant to wilderness settings and benefit from collaboration with established medical and wilderness training partners.
Located in Conway, New Hampshire, the Observatory connects community education with applied mountain meteorology and outdoor safety training. Its public tours and educator programs are designed to increase understanding of extreme weather, improve preparedness for outdoor programs, and strengthen the skills of those responsible for youth safety in remote environments. Programs and tours accommodate educators, outdoor leaders, and interested public participants regularly.
Summit Altitude
6,288 ft
Site of the summit weather station
Location
Conway, New Hampshire
Base community for the Observatory
Tours Schedule
Six days a week
Guided Weather Station Tours
Reserve a Weather Station Tour or the Overnight Medical Training Program for Youth Educators — meet summit scientists and gain Wilderness First Aid skills.
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.
Insulated Jacket
Summit temperatures can be significantly colder and windier than the base.
spring|summer|fall
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
Training Partners
Memorial Hospital & SOLO
Certified wilderness medical training
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated before and after your tour, especially when traveling at elevation.