[Lakegeezer]

You used to be able to get cog tickets a bit cheaper if you take the first ride of the day - maybe still? When we went, it was very foggy at the top with 50 MPH winds. It was a blast going on the roof of the observatory and playing with the wind. We stayed at the top for several hours. You don't have to take the next train down, but can wait as long as you want. We hiked down the Tuckerman's Ravine trail a bit and waited for the weather to clear. It didn't - so down we went. Then, Murphy's law applied. About half-way down, the weather cleared and the view was beautiful. Yes, it is expensive, but driving your car puts 10,000 miles of wear on it and hiking puts 10 years of wear on your knees. We've considered getting a rental car to drive up the auto-road, but haven't done that yet. Pick your day carefully - but don't miss the experience if you get the chance.