Mt. Washington SnowCoach Blazes the Way for a Cleaner Future

The newest Mt. Washington SnowCoach at Great Glen Trails and the Mt. Washington Auto Road in Pinkham Notch has been converted to propane, making it more energy efficient and environmentally friendly. With the installation of a more aggressive track system, the uniquely-designed nine-passenger winter tour vehicle that climbs to treeline on Mt. Washington is even more capable in extreme terrain conditions than before.

The latest of three Mt. Washington SnowCoaches has recently been converted to propane as part of the Auto Road’s commitment to energy efficiency and environmentally conscious practices. Propane, or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), is a safe, clean-burning, high-energy alternative fuel. When used in place of petroleum-based fuels, it reduces tailpipe emissions. The clean-burning characteristics of propane also allow the engine to have increased service life.

“The propane conversion is just another step toward becoming more environmentally conscious at Great Glen and the Auto Road," said Howie Wemyss, general manager of the Mt. Washington Auto Road and Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center. “Two other coaches used for guided tours in the summer have already been converted and more are planned for 2015.”

“We are really excited about these upgrades to the SnowCoach program," said Nate Harvey, Great Glen Trails manager. “Our tour schedule will be more consistent for guests, passengers will get a softer, more comfortable ride, and our mechanics may actually enjoy a day or two off once in a while.” Dominator tracks are practically maintenance free, and allow more consistent operation in challenging weather and terrain conditions.

Guided winter tours aboard the Mt. Washington SnowCoaches are approximately 1.25 hours long and depart daily from December through March from the Great Glen Trails base lodge at the base of Mt. Washington on a first come, first served basis. Operating hours are approximately 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 pm (8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. early in the season), depending on weather and snow conditions. The cost for the winter sightseeing experience is $49 for adults and $30 for children ages 5-12. Advance reservations are not available due to unpredictable weather and snow conditions.

The Mt. Washington SnowCoaches climb to about 4,200 feet, otherwise known as treeline, which is about two-thirds the way to the 6,288 foot summit. Upon arrival to the turnaround point, passengers are allowed to exit the SnowCoach to experience the weather and snow conditions which Mt. Washington is so famous for. Guests can take up to 15 minutes outside the coach for photos and videos before climbing back aboard for the return trip.

The SnowCoach is available as a stand-alone tour or as part of the Trails Total Ticket, which offers complete access to everything available at Great Glen Trails for one discounted price. The Trails Total Ticket includes a trail pass for XC skiing and snowshoeing; cross country ski and snowshoe rentals; all-day access to the tubing hill and a tour on the SnowCoach.

Through December 25 (online-only), the Mt. Washington SnowCoach is offering a special 2-for-1 deal on select days, and a buy one ticket get the second ticket half off promotion valid every day the SnowCoach operates. Visit www.snowcoachnh.com/wow for more promotion details.

Additional info can be found by visiting www.snowcoachnh.com or by calling (603) 466-3988.