I would caution against climbing Mt Washington in "rented" or low cost footware. That mountain has claimed lives from unprepared and inexperienced hikers and is a large pill to be swallowed for the casual hiker. The least you can expect from your experience there is blisters and other foot related ailments. If you must summit that beast, do it by driving up the auto road or taking the Cog Railway.
Better options would be:
1.) Mt Monadnock: a 4-5 hour round trip with great views that most can handle even with sneakers.
2.) Mt Major: a much shorter hike (less than an hour up) and great for beginners.
3.) Mt Cardigan: a very nice and more remote mountain. Great views and nice hiking trails.
A lot of bad decisions have been made related to Mt Washington. I would plan carefully and make sure you leave information with friends/relatives about when you are leaving, when you should be back (and that you will call them when you are) and the route you will be taking.
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