Race the Cog
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Event details
Race The Cog takes place on June 20, 2026, at the Mount Washington Cog Railway base in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire. The event offers two course options:
- 2.75 Miles
- 5.5 Miles
The Summit Climb (2.75 miles) has a total elevation gain of 3,500 feet and a maximum elevation near 6,266 feet. The Summit Climb has a 3.5 hour time limit; the roundtrip Devil's Shingle option lists a 6 hour time limit. The Summit Climb entry includes a return Cog train ride from the summit back to the start.
Course and logistics
Both courses follow the path alongside the Cog Railway tracks from the base station to the summit of Mount Washington. The route begins on dirt and gravel, becomes steeper approaching Jacobs Ladder (about a 37% grade), and continues through large boulder fields in the Presidential Range. Weather can vary widely between the base and summit, with possible temperature and wind extremes.
Aid is available at Waumbek (0.9 miles) and the summit (2.75 miles) offering water, sports drink, sodas, snacks, and fresh fruit. The event is cupless; participants must bring their own hydration system. No crew or pacers are allowed. There are no qualification requirements to enter. Spectator train tickets are available through the Cog Railway. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
