The Cog and van rides don't give you much time at the top. U-drive, the driver does not experience the beauty and if you don't have good brakes, a white knuckle drive down!
I prefer to hike. I take the hike from Joe Dodge Lodge to Tuckerman's and to the top. Fairly easy day hike. Go when the alpine garden is in full bloom, breathtaking!
http://www.northeasthikes.com/tucker...mt-washington/