Cogscape - The Homestretch. The first steam trip of the day makes the leisurely climb up the the segment of the line known as the Homestretch Flats...the final half mile to the summit. Although it is hardly "flat", the grade eases considerably from the 30%+ values that the train has just endured. Up here, we are above tree line, revealing the wide-open expanse of the upper portion of the mountain. A cap of clouds generated by upslope winds has Mt. Washington and the adjacent Mt. Clay in shadow, yet in the distance, the Mt. Washington Valley can be seen in bright sunlight. A couple of noteworthy items in this photo include a large backhoe next to the line. This is being used to install electrical transmission lines to the summit. Just ahead of the train are the remains of an old water tank that is no longer used by the railway. And yes, those white patches over on Mt. Clay are indeed snow.
