Mount Washington & Presidential Range
The highest peak in the Northeast — 6,288 feet of alpine adventure, just 30 miles from Riverside.
Mount Washington stands at 6,288 feet, making it the highest peak in the northeastern United States and the centerpiece of the Presidential Range in New Hampshire's White Mountains. Known for some of the most extreme weather on Earth — including a recorded wind speed of 231 mph — the summit offers an experience unlike anything else east of the Rockies. From Riverside Camping & RV Resort in Lancaster, the mountain is approximately 30 miles south, making it an easy day trip.
Mount Washington Auto Road
The Mount Washington Auto Road is a privately owned, 7.6-mile toll road that climbs from Pinkham Notch to the summit. Open seasonally from late May through mid-October, the road gains over 4,600 feet of elevation and provides staggering views of the Great Gulf Wilderness, the Carter Range, and on clear days, the Atlantic Ocean. You can drive your own vehicle or take a guided stage tour. The Auto Road entrance on Route 16 is about a 45-minute drive from Riverside.
The Cog Railway
The Mount Washington Cog Railway, the world's first mountain-climbing cog railway, has been operating since 1869. Departing from Marshfield Base Station off Route 302, the three-hour round trip covers 3.8 miles of track with grades as steep as 37.4 percent. The base station is roughly 35 miles from Riverside. Advance reservations are strongly recommended during peak summer and foliage seasons.
Hiking the Presidential Range
For experienced hikers, the Presidential Range offers some of the most challenging and rewarding trails in the Appalachian Mountains. The Tuckerman Ravine Trail is the most popular route to the summit, covering 4.1 miles one way with 4,250 feet of elevation gain. The Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail from the western side is another well-traveled option. Above treeline, conditions can change rapidly — high winds, sudden fog, and freezing temperatures occur even in summer. Proper gear and planning are essential.
Why Stay at Riverside
Lancaster's position north of the Presidentials puts you within striking distance of the summit without the congestion of closer towns like North Conway or Lincoln. After a long day on the mountain, return to a full-hookup RV site or a comfortable cabin at Riverside, with the Connecticut River just steps away. The resort's central location also provides quick access to Route 2 and Route 3, both direct corridors to the mountain.