Cragway switchbacks
exposed turns with big Presidential Range views
Cragway switchbacks is one of the places Roamward flags on the Mount Washington Auto Road because it gives the drive its texture: exposed turns with big Presidential Range views. Use it as a planned pull-over instead of letting the route become a blur between towns.
How it fits the drive
The Mt Washington Auto Road runs Pinkham Notch → Mount Washington summit, NH. Drive to the roof of the Northeast.
Nearby route stops
- The treeline — where the forest gives way to alpine tundra partway up (Mt Washington Auto Road)
- Mount Washington Summit — the 6,288-ft top, with the observatory and the cog railway (Mt Washington Auto Road)
Conditions, access, parking, fees, weather, and seasonal closures can change quickly on scenic routes. Check the managing agency or local visitor information before committing to a side stop.
Build a trip around Mt Washington Auto Road stops like this.
Roamward turns spots like this into a real road trip on your phone — the scenic drive, the stops, and the detours, planned around the vibe you’re after. Get early access: