Things You'll Need:
- Good hiking boots
- Light to heavy coat
- Sunscreen
- Water
- Camera.
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Step 1
Spend the afternoon exploring the moss-covered boulders before reaching the signpost marking the mountain's height. Most visitors upon arrival have their photograph taken at this simple marker. Easily accessible trails and paths allow for ample exploration.
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Step 2
Look for the metal plate in the ground near the summit's signpost that marks the official U.S. Geological survey's measure of the elevation at the summit. While the signpost is symbolic, this seal is official.
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Step 3
Jump from rock to rock among the many jumbles scattered around the summit. The rocks, of various size, allow any visitor to exercise his or her skill. One particular mass surrounds the building known as the Tip Top House. A visitor may climb up and peek through the window. There are many trails through the jumbles as well, and any adventure is relatively safe. The state park does not forbid such play.
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Step 4
Visit the Tip Top House. This outpost, built of summit rock, was a place where visitors dined and bedded for the night, for a price of course. The house is simply constructed: four rooms that include a small lobby, which serves as a sign-in area, a general dining room, and an attached kitchen. The bunk area sleeps eight. The house is a well-kept artifact from the turn-of-the-last century and is highly recommended.
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Step 5
Follow the path out to the world-famous weather station, known for recording some of the most severe weather conditions in the United States. Obviously the site is fenced and protected from visitors, but the tower and other assorted data recording instruments are clearly visible.
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Step 6
Follow the cairns (stacked rock) in either direction from the summit along the Appalachian Trail. If you are a novice hiker, keep the summit and buildings in plain sight. A twenty-minute walk represents a mile, so simply walk out for thirty minutes and return. This exercise avoids much of the summit crowd and offers great views of the range.
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Step 7
Visit the snack shop and gift shop located at the summit. The gift shop offers trinkets unique to Mount Washington. Also, be sure to view the western range from the rooftop terrace above the shops and accessible by steps along the side of the building.
