Mt. Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb (MWARBH)
Every summer on the third Saturday in August, up to 600 cyclists line up at the start line to begin the 7.6 mile, one-way, all uphill ride to the 6, 288 ft. summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the northeast. With an average grade of 12%, extended sections of 18% and reaching a leg-burning 22% at the top, this is one tough hillclimb. Yet, many return year after year to complete what Velo News calls "the ride of a lifetime!" In 2023, the Mt. Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hilllclimb (MWARBH) celebrated its 50th Anniversary. Bill Allis, winner of the very first MWARBH joined us for the festivities. He was joined by fellow cyclist Bill Humphreys who also participated in the 1973 very first MWARBH.
Tin Mountain took the reins of the hillclimb in 1991 and it quickly became Tin Mountain's largest fund-raising event. Proceeds from the event help Tin Mountain further its mission with more environmental education programs, summer camp offerings, conservation research projects and additional community nature programs. Every year, Tin Mountain reaches thousands of students (grades K-12) with natural and environmental science classes. Hundreds of children enjoy summer camp in one of 5 locations. Conservation research interns restore trout habitats in first-order streams, count and track avian populations and study both macroinvertebrates and vegetation science.
After pedaling to the summit, riders get a ride back down to the base of the auto road where they enjoy lunch and an awards ceremony. Learn more about how to participate in this iconic event at mwarbh.org.
Thanks to Joe Viger Photography for providing the photography for this photo gallery.
-
"ride of a lifetime"
Everyone starts at the same time but you'll often find yourself alone with the views. You too can experience this climb. Visit mwarbh.org
-
The beginning of the climb
Riders at the beginning of the 7.6 mile, one-way, all uphill ride to the summit. Learn more at mwarbh.org
-
The hard way
For some, riding a bicycle isn't enough of a challenge! Learn more about special categories of bikes at mwarbh.org.
-
The wall leading to the finish line.
The wall (22% grade) leading to the finish line at the summit of Mt. Washington. Learn how you can participate in this iconic event at mwarbh.og.
