Race the Cog
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Race alongside the Mount Washington Cog Railway
Race the Cog is a mountain running event held at the Mount Washington Cog Railway in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire. Participants navigate a course that follows the path alongside the historic railway tracks, competing against the train as it climbs toward the summit of Mount Washington.
The event offers two distinct course options:
- Summit Climb (2.75 miles): A point-to-point race finishing at the summit, with a train ticket provided for the return trip to the base.
- Devil's Shingle Round-tripper (5.5 miles): A round-trip race where participants reach the summit checkpoint before running back down to the start line.
The route begins on dirt and gravel surfaces, gradually increasing in difficulty. Runners encounter Jacobs Ladder, a section with a 37% grade, before reaching the large boulder fields of the Presidential Range. This area is characterized by highly technical terrain. The course reaches a maximum elevation of 6,266 feet with approximately 3,500 feet of total elevation gain.
Weather conditions on Mount Washington are subject to extreme changes and intense winds. Temperatures may reach the 70s at the base while snowing at the summit. Although there is no mandatory gear, the organizers recommend carrying one liter of fluids, a windbreaker or rain shell, and an emergency space blanket. Registration is open to all runners with no prior qualification requirements. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
