Outside of Alaska, there are just four places in the U.S. with an average year-round temperature that is below freezing. One of those places happens to be absolutely gorgeous.

The peak of Mount Washington in New Hampshire is the coldest place in continental America in terms of average temperature. Here’s what it looks like in the wintertime.

Mount Washington in New Hampshire is a stunning peak with a frosty claim to fame.

Flickr/Paul Gagnon

It has an average annual temperature of 27.4 degrees Fahrenheit.

Flickr/Brendan T. Lynch

It’s so cold at the summit that structures and equipment are encrusted with glittering ice.

Flickr/Mt. Washington Auto Road

The peak is often covered with ice and snow, creating a surreal landscape that looks like something from a dream.

Flickr/James Walsh

The mountain is a popular hiking and skiing destination, but it’s also notorious for its avalanches. About 100 are recorded each year.

Flickr/tanyariga

The coldest recorded temperature on the mountain was -50 degrees Fahrenheit, observed in 1885. However, on January 16, 2004, the summit reached -43.6 degrees. With wind chill factored in, that brought conditions at the peak to -102.59 degrees.

Flickr/Mt. Washington Auto Road

The world record for fastest windspeed not involved with a tropical hurricane was recorded at the summit: a dizzying 231 miles per hour.

Flickr/Brendan T. Lynch

In fact, hurricane-force winds roar around the summit on 110 days per year on average.

Flickr/tanyariga

The Mount Washington Cog Railway ferries passengers to the top on the second-steepest track in the world.

Flickr/Ian Bruce

It may be chilly, but Mount Washington is a stunning frozen wonderland.

Flickr/Joey Higgins

What do you think is the most beautiful wintry spot in America? For more frosty fun, check out the best national park to visit in the winter.

Flickr/Paul Gagnon

Flickr/Brendan T. Lynch

Flickr/Mt. Washington Auto Road

Flickr/James Walsh

Flickr/tanyariga

Flickr/Ian Bruce

Flickr/Joey Higgins

 

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.