AMC Outdoors, January/February 2005

By Madeleine Eno & Kate Grip Denon

Looming icy and white above the outlet shoppers of North Conway, 6,288-foot Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast, barely measures up to the littlest mountains west of the Mississippi. But that doesn’t stop it from being the stuff of legend. The mountain that boasts the world’s “worst weather” was first climbed over 350 years ago, by settler Darby Field. The story goes that Field’s Native American guide balked at going to the very top. And when Will Abbott, executive director of the Mount Washington Observatory, first spent a winter week on the summit, he discovered a new respect for that man’s hesitancy. “They considered it hallowed ground that humans shouldn’t tread on,” says Abbot. “And anyone who’s set foot on the summit in winter can appreciate that.”

Whether you get there by wielding an ice axe or riding a SnowCat, the expanse of winter summit is otherworldly. The weather roars, the rime ice blown by the strong winds until “every object on the mountain becomes a sculpture.” It’s a harsh environment, says Abbott, “but so much harsher than most could imagine.” So what are we doing sending you there? Because while it’s powerful, this mountain is also home to some of the region’s most wonderful skiing, hiking, and ice climbing. And because there are plenty of ways to experience it, regardless of your expertise. We’ve put together 10 trips to get you going this winter. So, whether it’s your first time to the mountain or you’re ready to experience life on the top, here are some ways to get there safely.

Winter on Washington, main  |  Beginner Trips  |  Intermediate Trips  |  Expert Trips