The Mt. Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb (MWARBH) 2026 benefits the Tin Mountain Conservation Center – Strambecco has consistently selected it as one of the best cycling events in New England and one of the Best Cycling Hill Climbs in America. The event organizers, Mt. Washington Auto Road partnered with TMCC, and they bill the event as the hardest hill climb in the world. Whether or not that is true, it’s a beast of a climb at 7.6 miles and +4,500 feet of elevation gain. The average course gradient is 12%, with 18% and 22% extended sections at the top. MWARBH is not just a race; it’s a journey of determination, camaraderie, and a chance to ascend the highest peak in the northeastern U.S.

Built by hand over 150 years ago, the road ascends over 4,000 feet in just 7.6 miles. Since 1973, cyclists worldwide have taken on the challenge of conquering this relentless climb, either racing against fellow competitors or battling against the clock. It is one of the few times this private road is open to cyclists, making it as iconic as it is bucket list-worthy – a dream for road cyclists seeking an ultimate test of their abilities.

In the early 1990s, the Tin Mountain Conservation Center and the Mt. Washington Auto Road formed a perfect partnership. While the Auto Road offers visitors an opportunity to experience the majestic beauty above the tree line, the Conservation Center’s mission to promote environmental appreciation and responsible stewardship aligns perfectly with the event’s goals.

The race is a one-way uphill course to the summit of Mt. Washington, reaching 6,288 ft. in elevation. Aid stations, portable toilets, water, commemorative fleece blankets, finisher medals, and first aid await you at the summit. However, pack extra food, water, energy drinks, and warm clothing in your support driver’s car. Emergency Medical Services are stationed at the base and the summit. While there’s no mechanical support on the Auto Road, the challenge of self-sufficiency adds to the sense of accomplishment. Descending by bike is prohibited, so special planning is required to coordinate a ride down.

Although the Mt. Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb (MWARBH) is technically a race, it is open to anyone who feels they can do the climb. Naturally, it takes solid preparation, and a climbing (low) gear ratio is strongly recommended. You also need to keep a careful eye on the weather. Mt. Washington is known for some of the worst weather on earth and has the world record for non-tornadic wind speed at 231 MPH. There is a make-up day for the race if the weather interferes with the primary date. This fully supported event, with a capacity of 635 riders, provides various participation options – race it, ride it, or enjoy the journey. Those who have conquered the climb over ten times earn their place in history and are lovingly known as ‘Rockpilers.’

The month before the event, an MWARBH Early Bird Ride ride is available to 150 cyclists (formerly known as the practice ride), offering a minimalist and untimed experience to ascend Mt. Washington from 5 am to 6 am. This event lacks crowds, elaborate ceremonies, and the need to pin on a race number. Instead, it’s just you, your bike, the mountain, and the serene sunrise. To participate, riders must ensure self-sufficiency and arrange for a support driver and vehicle to meet them at the summit for the descent.