Race the Cog
Mount Washington, United States • 20 Jun 2026
Race The Cog : June 20, 2026
Race The Cog is a mountain footrace at the Mount Washington Cog Railway in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire. The event offers two course options: a summit climb that finishes on the summit of Mount Washington and a roundtrip option that returns to the start on foot. Total climbing for the summit route is about 3,500 feet, and the course reaches a maximum elevation near 6,266 feet. The event does not require qualifying standards.
- 2.75 miles
- 5.5 miles
Course and logistics
The course follows the path alongside the Cog Railway tracks from the base station to the summit. The surface begins on dirt and gravel, becomes steep approaching Jacobs Ladder (about a 37% grade), and passes large boulder fields in the Presidential Range. Weather can vary widely between the base and summit, with warm temperatures possible at the start and snow, low temperatures, and strong winds at the summit.
Aid stations are located at Waumbek (about 0.9 miles) and at the summit. Stations stock water, electrolyte drink, sodas, snacks, and fresh fruit. The event is cupless; participants must bring their own hydration vessel. Organizers provide a recommended gear list including fluids, calories, a windbreaker or rain shell, and an emergency blanket. Crews and pacers are not allowed on course. Spectators may purchase Cog Railway tickets to ride and view runners from the train. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.