Ride The Rock Pile (Mt. Washington 2026)

The 2026 Early Bird Ride up Mount Washington Auto Road promises an exhilarating challenge for cyclists, both traditional and electric alike. This steep ascent of 7.6 miles with an average grade of 12%, including sections that reach a grueling 18% and the final stretch at a staggering 22%, awaits those who dare to take on this formidable route.
Weather conditions can be unpredictable in Mount Washington, known for its extreme climate even during July when temperatures range from 44.5°F to 55.3°F with gusting winds and occasional rain adding to the physical demands of the climb. Participants must prepare themselves both physically and mentally for these challenges.
This Early Bird Ride is an unsupported event, meaning there will be no technical support along the route or at the summit. Riders are required to start between 5 am and 6 am to ensure safety and manage traffic flow on this narrow road. The ride demands a high level of preparation; bring adequate hydration, food, first aid supplies, tools, and extra tubes for your bike.
All participants must wear helmets and have lights visible from both the front and back of their bikes for enhanced visibility. This is especially crucial given the steep grades and potential weather conditions that can reduce visibility significantly. High-visibility clothing is also recommended to ensure safety during the climb.
The ride concludes at the summit, where riders will need support vehicles to safely descend. These must be registered in advance and adhere strictly to vehicle weight restrictions; no more than 900 lbs of interior weight (including driver, passengers, bikes, gear) are allowed coming down to prevent potential transmission issues on steep grades.
The event is limited to 150 participants including those riding Class 1 e-bikes that meet the specific USA Cycling guidelines. These include a freely operable pedaling system and no throttle, with motors engaged only through pedaling up to 20 mph (32 kmh). Riders will need to provide proof of compliance if requested.
Registration for this unique experience is open from April 1 at 9 am until July 12 at 5 pm. The cost is $150 per rider, with early registration strongly encouraged given the limited spots available. Cancellations before July 1 are eligible for a refund minus a $25 administration fee; no-shows will not receive refunds.
For those unable to secure an initial spot, waitlisted participants may be moved into the event in the order they registered. It is imperative that all participants understand and adhere to these policies to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment of this remarkable challenge on Mount Washington's Auto Road.