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the final push to the finish at the annual MWARBH
Climbing 'the wall" on the way to the finish line at the MWARBH

Events

Mt. Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb

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"
    "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
    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
    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 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.

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