FATMAP by Strava

Cog Railway

A mellow ski, plus easy access to great alpine skiing.

Ski Touring Easy

Distance
4.4 km
Ascent
0 m
Descent
1.1 km
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
817 m
High Point
1.9 km
Gradient
26˚
Cog Railway Map

The Cog Railway is a train to the summit of Mount Washington and the only one of it's kind in the east. While it may be a fun tourist attraction in the summer, it lies dormant in the winter. It does however, attract many backcountry skiers. The Cog is about as wide as a resort ski trail and offers mellow turns, with lots of vert. The trail below treeline can be easily skinned with no kickturns. Once above treeline, there is an elevated section of track called "Jacob's Ladder". This gets wind scoured and may require ski crampons, or even boot crampons to ascend. Once on the ridge, you can continue to the summit of Washington (weather and snowpack permitting) Or ski back the way you came. The Cog in itself makes a great ski, but if you have avy gear, you can ski Burt Ravine or Ammonoosuc Ravine. The Cog also provides good access to Great Gulf.

Difficulty

Easy

Wide gentle slopes at around 20 degrees or less.

Medium Exposure (E2)

2 out of 4

As well as the slope itself, there are some obstacles (such as rock outcrops) which could aggravate injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between December and April

Features

  • Alpine
  • Single Descent

Equipment required

  • Skins
  • Crampons