Conway, NH Attractions

Mount Washington Cog Railway

 

The Mount Washington Cog Railway takes you up Mount Washington, offering a unique natural experience. Starting from the Base Station, the journey begins with forests and hills, then changes as you ascend.  I took the journey a couple of years back, at the end of August, and the weather station atop Mount Washington was near freezing!  

The rhythmic train sounds are also cool. Outside, the streams flow by and waterfalls add to the scenery.  Higher up, you'll see more panoramic views of the mountain ranges.

 
VIEW WEBSITE HERE
 
mount washington cog railway
Mount Washington Cog Railway

Mount Washington Auto Road

 

Driving up the Mount Washington Auto Road is a thrilling adventure in New Hampshire, USA. Mount Washington stands as the highest peak in the Northeastern United States, reaching about 6300 feet. The road itself is iconic, allowing visitors to ascend the mountain and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views.

At the beginning of your journey, you'll notice the lush surroundings of the White Mountains region. The road is well-kept, weaving through dense forests with tall trees. You might spot wildlife like deer or squirrels along the way.

As you go higher, the landscape changes. Trees become smaller, giving way to rocky outcrops and alpine meadows. The scenery opens up, revealing sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. On clear days, you can see as far as Maine, Vermont, and even Canada.

A highlight of the Mount Washington Auto Road is the excitement of the ascent. With an average gradient of 10%, the road is steep and features sharp turns. The adventure intensifies as you feel the mountain's power.

Reaching the treeline around 4,200 feet is incredible. Vegetation thins, and rocks dominate the landscape. The road narrows, offering pull-offs for admiring the views. The exposed feeling here adds to the thrill, with strong mountain winds.

As the summit nears, the road gets steeper. Fog or mist might appear, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. The temperature drops, and you could encounter snow or ice, depending on the time of year. The final stretch is thrilling, leading to the parking area.

Before starting, note some requirements. The road has a toll, and specific regulations apply. Vehicles must be well-maintained and have good brakes due to the steep grade. Oversized vehicles and motorcycles are not allowed. Check the official Mount Washington Auto Road website for the latest info on requirements.

 
mount washington auto road
Mount Washington Auto Road

Saco River Tubing

 

Tubing on the Saco River is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors and embrace New Hampshire's natural beauty. Saco River Tubing, a well-known outfitter, offers tube rentals and a convenient starting point for your adventure.  The Saco River's gentle current makes it ideal for tubing. The calm waters invite relaxation as you take in the scenic landscape.  I have been to the area but not gone tubing.

As you float along the Saco River, you will notice the clear water beneath you. Smooth stones and pebbles line the riverbed as you drift. The water's temperature varies but generally offers refreshing relief from the heat.  The scenery along the Saco River is captivating, cutting through the beautiful White Mountains region. You'll admire towering trees, colorful wildflowers, and occasional wildlife sightings. 

Encountering gentle rapids and riffles is a thrilling highlight. These sections infuse your tubing adventure with a rush of excitement as your tube moves with the current. It's a mix of relaxation and adrenaline that ensures an adventurous ride.

 

VIEW WEBSITE HERE

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saco river tubing center
Saco River Tubing

 

Santa's Village

 
santas village
Santa's Village