What started out as a fairly pleasant morning atop New Hampshire’s Mount Washington, a beautiful but relatively small peak, turned into a weather phenomenon that would go down in history. Mount Washington experienced the windiest day it has ever seen … though to call it windy would be an understatement. On April 12, 1934, the Mount Washington Observatory anemometer recorded an astonishing wind speed of 231 mph. Or the equivalent of a F4 tornado!
Not only did this small observatory make history, it continues to maintain its reputation of having some of the “worst weather in the world,” according to meteorologists.
Who would have thought that this little peak in New Hampshire, a place that appears so beautiful and serene to distant onlookers, would be home to the worst weather in the world?
Going Up Mt Washington
The autumns day drive up to the mountains base, however, is beautiful, with trees showing off their reds, oranges, and yellows as if they were contestants in a beauty pageant.
Mount Washington is part of the Presidential Mountain range in the White Mountains. It is a favorite for avid hikers. But today, we opt to take the Mount Washington Cog Railway instead of hoofing the 6,000′ ascent hike,
The Climb
The Cog Railway, a charming, rickety train that looked like it was designed by a steampunk enthusiast. The conductor, a jolly fellow with a beard that rivaled Santa’s, assured us that the train was perfectly safe, despite its antique appearance.
As the train chugged up the mountain, the views grew more spectacular. We passed hikers who looked at us with a mix of envy and disdain. “Suckers!” I thought, as I sipped my hot cocoa and watched them huff and puff their way up the trail. I think to myself, one day I’ll do that hike….one day.
Arrival at the Observatory
Stepping off the train at the summit, I am immediately struck by the view. The sky is a brilliant blue, the kind you only see in postcards or after extensive Photoshop editing. The air is crisp and clean, with just a whiff of pine.
The observatory itself looks like a futuristic fortress, perched atop the mountain like a sentinel watching over the world below. I half-expect to see Dumbledore standing at the entrance, staff in hand, welcoming weary muggles. Instead, I am greeted by a sign pronouncing the worst weather in the world along with a list of those who had died on the mountain. A somber reminder that Mother Nature don’t play.
We find a series of exhibits showcasing the harsh conditions that Mount Washington is known for. There were photos of ice-encrusted buildings, windblown scientists, and snowdrifts that could swallow a car.
The Observation Deck
After a cruise through the little gift shop, we step out onto the observation deck, and are greeted by a view that can only be described as breathtaking. Rolling hills stretched out as far as the eye could see, painted in autumnal hues. The wind, while present, was more of a warm gentle caress than the usual face-slapping force. I feel like I am standing on top of the world.
Tippy Top
While exploring the summit, I stumble upon the Tip Top House, a rustic stone building that dates back to 1853, making it one of the oldest structures on the mountain. Originally a hotel, the Tip Top House has weathered countless storms and still stands strong, a testament to the resilience required to endure Mount Washington’s notorious weather.
Stepping inside felt like a journey back in time, with the stone walls whispering tales of adventurers who sought refuge within its rocky embrace. The Tip Top House once housed an entire herd of sheep during a particularly brutal blizzard. As I look around, I couldn’t help but admire the blend of history and practicality, making the Tip Top House a charming highlight of the visit. But a herd of sheep, really??
The Descent
We board “The Cog” for the ride back down, and I marvel that the chairs flip to the opposite direction of the ascent. This is to ensure that though the train is at a steep angle, we sit comfortably level.
As we near the base, the conductor makes a final announcement. “Ladies and gentlemen, I hope you enjoyed this rare treat of perfect weather on Mount Washington. Don’t forget to buy a souvenir T-shirt that says, ‘I Survived Mount Washington’s Weather – On a Good Day!’”
Back at the base, I take a moment to reflect on the day. Visiting the weather observatory on Mount Washington during such impeccable conditions felt like winning the lottery. It was a reminder that even in a place known for its ferocity, there are moments of calm and beauty.
When not on the road, he helps others fulfill their yearning to travel as a Membership Specialist for Thousand Trails.
