The Presidentials

Today I took the Invasion Mobile on one of the most notorious drives in the country, up to the peak of Mount Washington here in the White Mountains. It’s an 8 mile drive up a winding mountainside road with no guard rails or shoulder. It costs $20 to make the drive to the top, but it’s very worthwhile. They even give you a CD to keep that guides your way up the mountain and tells you the history of the road. The peak of Mount Washington is known for some of the most severe weather in the world, holding the record for the strongest winds ever recorded on earth, 281 miles per hour. Thankfully, today was just about 30 mph (though I was sure to keep my hat in the car this time, unlike in Wyoming). The temperature drop was significant from the base to the peak, which was probably close to a 5,000 foot climb. Incredible views up there. If you’re ever around New Hampshire don’t let the drive to the top of Mount Washington pass by. If nothing else it is definitely worth the bumper sticker.

My other adventures around the White Mountains today included my first ever ride down an alpine slide, and from what I heard it’s the largest alpine slide in the country. A lot of fun! If you haven’t done this make sure you do. This one is located at Attitash Ski Hill. It’s been a long time since I’ve been up a chairlift at a ski hill without a snowboard strapped to my feet. To be honest it felt kind of strange, I was just wishing that there was a foot of fresh snow. Also made it to Glen Ellis Falls, I have to say it’s probably the best waterfall I’ve been to on this trip, though I haven’t been to many. The big question is if I’m going to make it to Niagara Falls or not.

Tonight is my last night in New Hampshire, another state completed. I’m sitting here overlooking the mountains, listening to birds, watching the clouds slowly drift by as the sun dips behind the mountains. I’m anxious to get to Burlington, Vermont tomorrow. Ever since I bought my first snowboard (a Burton Twin 149) when I was 14 I’ve been wanting to make the trip to the Burton Snowboards headquarters. Also looking forward to stopping in at Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, Magic Hat Brewery, and checking out Lake Champlain. Should be another remarkable stop.