The Mt. Washington SnowCoach is one of the most unique winter touring opportunities in the Northeast. Due to unique nature of the SnowCoach vehicle itself and the extreme weather and terrain conditions at times on Mount Washington, please read the following list of frequently asked questions:
Q: DOES THE MT. WASHINGTON SNOWCOACH OPERATE EVERY DAY IN THE WINTER?
We strive to operate every day in the winter. However, weather can sometimes halt our operations. Please call ahead, (603) 466-3988, or check the current day’s operating status to be sure the SnowCoach is operating on the day of your planned visit.
Q: DOES THE MT. WASHINGTON SNOWCOACH CLIMB ALL THE WAY TO THE SUMMIT OF MOUNT WASHINGTON … AND HOW LONG IS EACH TOUR?
Due mainly to extreme weather conditions and often hurricane force winds the Mt. Washington SnowCoach does not go all the way to the summit.
The Mt. Washington SnowCoach climbs to treeline, or 4,200 feet, which is about 2/3 the way to the summit of Mount Washington. Upon arrival to the “top-of-the-tour”, guests are free to exit the SnowCoach for a short photo and video opportunity and to enjoy the weather.
Tours last approximately 90 minutes.
Q: CAN I MAKE A RESERVATION?
Yes, reservations can be made throughout the day up to one hour before departure.
Q: WHAT IS “TREELINE”?
Treeline is the edge of the habitat at which trees are capable of growing. Beyond treeline, harsh environmental conditions of cold temperatures, high winds and poor soil prevent trees from thriving.
Climbing to treeline provides an opportunity to witness arctic conditions and the potentially extreme weather that Mount Washington is so well known for.
Q: CAN WE GET OUT OF THE SNOWCOACH AT THE TURN-AROUND POINT?
YES! Once the SnowCoach arrives at its destination, passengers will have time to get out and take photos and videos of the views or to experience the weather. The SnowCoach is never more than just seconds away. Passengers do not need to leave the warmth and comfort of the SnowCoach and can enjoy the scenery from inside the vehicle as well.
Q: CAN WE SKI OR SNOWSHOE DOWN THE AUTO ROAD?
We can drop you off to snowshoe down the Auto Road at any point along the descent – experienced snowshoers may want the full 4-mile trip downhill, while less experienced folks may be more comfortable asking to be let out closer to the bottom.
Experienced Nordic skiers (free-heel) may also choose to ski down.
(Free heel Nordic skis only. No alpine, AT or snowboard equipment permitted)
Please note that Nordic skiing or snowshoeing down the Auto Road is NOT offered on the last tour of the day. We do not allow skiers or snowshoers to ascend the road above the top of the tour.
Q: WHEN DOES THE SNOWCOACH OPERATE?
SnowCoach tours depart on most days from mid-December through March depending on weather and terrain conditions.
Operating hours are approximately 8:30 am to 3:30 pm (shorter hours 8:30-2:30 early in the season), depending on weather. Please call ahead (603) 466-3988 to be sure we are operating on the day of your visit.
Q: WHERE DOES THE SNOWCOACH LEAVE FROM?
The SnowCoach departs from the Great Glen Trails base lodge across the street from the entrance of the Mt. Washington Auto Road.
Please call ahead (603) 466-3988 for the latest weather conditions and operating schedule.
