Mount Washington Cog Railway, Rack railway in Coös County, New Hampshire, United States
The Mount Washington Cog Railway runs along the western slope of Mount Washington, connecting the base station at 2,700 feet with the summit at 6,288 feet. The route passes through forested sections and open terrain with views of the surrounding mountains.
Sylvester Marsh began construction in May 1866 and opened the line in August 1868. Full completion followed in July 1869 after the final sections to the summit were finished.
The name recalls Sylvester Marsh, who developed the rack system still visible along the track today. Visitors can watch the rails and the toothed racks between the tracks as the trains slowly climb the mountain.
Trains using biodiesel engines take around 36 minutes to the summit, while steam locomotives need about 65 minutes for the ascent and 40 minutes for the descent. Weather on the mountain can change quickly, so visitors should bring warm clothing.
The custom-built locomotives run at a gradient often steeper than other mountain railways worldwide. The rack system engages directly in the center of the rails, clearly visible from outside during the ride.
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