Race the Cog
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Race The Cog : Mount Washington Cog Railway, Bretton Woods, NH
Race The Cog is a mountain footrace held June 20, 2026, at the Mount Washington Cog Railway in Bretton Woods, NH. The course follows a path alongside the Cog Railway tracks from the base station to the summit of Mount Washington. The route begins on dirt and gravel and becomes progressively steeper approaching Jacobs Ladder, a section with about a 37% grade. Above Jacobs Ladder runners traverse large boulder fields within the Presidential Range.
Two course options are offered:
- 2.75 miles Summit Climb, finish at the summit alongside the Cog Railway.
- 5.5 miles Devil's Shingle Roundtripper, summit checkpoint then return to the start.
Key stats include approximately 3,500 feet of elevation gain and a maximum elevation near 6,266 feet. Aid stations are located at the start, Waumbek (0.9 miles), and the summit/checkpoint; the roundtrip course has additional return aid stops. Organizers list recommended gear rather than mandatory items: at least 1 liter of fluids, about 200 calories, a windbreaker or rain shell, and a space or emergency blanket. No crew or pacers are allowed on course. Drop bag options differ by event; participants may leave a bag at the start and some are permitted at the summit for the roundtrip. There are no qualification requirements for entry. The mountain weather can vary markedly, with warm conditions at the base and possible snow and strong winds at the summit. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
