Summary
If you think the New England scenery is spectacular at ground level, wait until you see it from up high. New England is renowned for scenic mountain summit drives that provide breathtaking views of autumn’s brilliant foliage or the lush greenery of late spring and summer.
Moreover, you can arrive at the mountaintop fresh in the comfort of your own vehicle. Even if you enjoy hiking, driving to the peak allows you to save energy for exploration once you’ve reached the best viewpoints.
Here are some picks for the five best mountains you can drive to. Keep in mind that access to these mountain roads is seasonal, so it’s wise to call ahead from late fall through early spring.
01 of 05: The Mt. Washington Auto Road
The Mt. Washington Auto Road is the pinnacle of New England mountain drives. New Hampshire’s Mt. Washington is the tallest peak in the region. Hence, it is crucial to check for significant weather changes upon arrival, as it can be radically different from the weather at the base even in June.
Mt. Washington is notorious for having extreme weather conditions and set a world record in 1934 for the strongest wind—231 miles per hour. Interestingly, it was only confirmed in 2010 that a stronger gust had occurred in Australia. Consequently, it’s advisable to carry a jacket, even during the summer months.
The “Road to the Sky” opened in 1861 for horse and carriage traffic and is considered an engineering marvel. It continues to offer travelers a chance to reach the “top of New England” in approximately half an hour. The summit presents spectacular views of the Presidential Range along with a visit to Extreme Mount Washington.
Fees and vehicle limitations apply. If your vehicle seems inadequately equipped for the climb, you may consider guided van tours.
Directions: The Mount Washington Auto Road is accessible from Route 16 north of Pinkham Notch, New Hampshire.
For Information: Call 603-466-3988.
02 of 05: Mount Equinox Skyline Drive
Adventurous drivers will certainly appreciate the Mount Equinox Skyline Drive‘s hairpin turns and dramatic ascent to the 3,848-foot summit of the highest mountain in the Taconic Range. The 5.2-mile upward journey is the longest, privately owned, paved toll road in the United States and is owned by monks. This scenic route and approximately 7,000 surrounding acres of Vermont’s Mount Equinox were bequeathed to the Carthusians by their former owner, Dr. Joseph George Davidson.
Embarking on this breathtaking drive allows you to share in the Carthusians’ quest for serenity. Your tight grip on the wheel will be rewarded with panoramic views stretching as far north as Canada and engaging parts of five different mountain ranges. Fees apply.
Directions: The entrance to the Equinox Skyline Drive is located on Route 7A south of Manchester, Vermont.
For Information: Call 802-362-1114.
03 of 05: Mount Ascutney Summit Drive
If you’re on the eastern side of Vermont, exciting destinations await. Visit Mt. Ascutney State Park to drive to an elevation of 2,800 feet on the Mountain Road, which almost reaches the summit of Mount Ascutney. From the parking area, the actual peak is accessible with a short hike of under a mile. Alternatively, a climb up a fire tower provides expansive views in all directions.
Besides fresh mountain air and 360-degree views, your drive up Mount Ascutney may bring an unexpected delight, as it is a favored launch site for hang gliding on clear days. Fees apply.
Directions: The entrance to Mount Ascutney State Park is located on Route 44A in Windsor, Vermont.
For Information: Call 802-674-2060.
04 of 05: Cadillac Mountain
Standing at 1,530 feet, Cadillac Mountain in Maine’s Acadia National Park may not match the largest peaks in New Hampshire and Vermont; however, it is the highest point on the entire Eastern Seaboard and, notably, one of the first locations in the USA to witness the sunrise each day.
The unique experience of standing atop a seaside mountain and gazing out at islands in Frenchman Bay is truly unparalleled. Furthermore, an entrance pass is necessary to drive your vehicle within Acadia National Park.
Directions: Follow the Park Loop Road within Acadia National Park to the clearly marked access road for Cadillac Mountain.
For Information: Call 207-288-3338.
05 of 05: Mt. Greylock
Massachusetts’ tallest mountain, Mt. Greylock, serves as the centerpiece of the first State Park in Massachusetts, Mount Greylock State Reservation. Although this 3,491-foot western Massachusetts peak may not be as tall as Mt. Washington, it offers its own unique attractions. Notably, the road over the mountain is freely accessible to the public from late May through November 1, while a small fee applies for parking at the summit.
The eight-mile road to the summit showcases a striking beacon-like structure at the top. The 92-foot Veterans War Memorial Tower was initially intended to serve as a lighthouse on the Charles River in Boston. By climbing the tower, you’ll be rewarded with views spanning five states.
Additionally, another pleasant surprise awaits atop Mt. Greylock. Bascom Lodge, built in 1937 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, accommodates overnight guests. Inside, you’ll find a full-service restaurant and restrooms, and if you accept the rustic accommodations with shared facilities, inquiries can be made at 413-743-1591 regarding co-ed bunkrooms for the night. A few private and family rooms are also available at reasonable rates.
Directions: From Route 7 North in Lanesborough, Massachusetts, turn right on North Main Street, then right on Rockwell Road to reach the summit of Mount Greylock. To exit, drive down Notch Road toward North Adams, turning sharp right near the Mt. Williams Reservoir to continue on Notch Road, subsequently turning right on Route 2 East, the Mohawk Trail. The drive over the mountain may also be reversed.
For Information: Call 413-499-4262. The Mount Greylock State Reservation Visitors Center is located at 30 Rockwell Road in Lanesborough, MA.
