This Historic Train Climbs the Tallest Mountain in New England-and It Has Prime Fall Foliage Views

"It is the world's first mountain-climbing railroad, and it was invented by New Hampshire native Sylvester Marsh, who thought there should be an easier way than hiking for people to visit the summit. The thought came to him during a hike up Mount Washington in 1857, when bad weather closed in on him and a friend, and the pair barely made it to the two hotels-the Summit House and Tip Top House -on top of the 6,288-foot peak."

"'The Cog' takes you to the summit of Mount Washington through a constantly changing landscape. You begin at the base surrounded by the brilliant colors right up close, As the train climbs, you'll notice the temperature drop and the forest change-from dense trees to the open alpine zone, where you're above the tree line with wide views in every direction. In every season, this view is my favorite, but in fall it is amazing."

Mount Washington Cog Railway originated from Sylvester Marsh's 1857 idea to provide an easier way to reach the 6,288-foot summit. The railway climbs about three miles from the base station to the summit using custom-built biodiesel locomotives. The route passes through shifting environments, with dense forests at lower elevations and an open alpine zone above the tree line. Riders experience noticeable temperature drops and expansive panoramic views from the summit. Historical connections to steam-era operations remain important to local researchers documenting thousands who worked on the railroad. Fall foliage creates vivid close-up colors and sweeping summit vistas.

Read at Travel + Leisure