Race the Cog
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Race The Cog - Mount Washington
Race The Cog is a mountain trail event at the Mount Washington Cog Railway base in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire. The event offers two course options:
- 2.75 Miles Summit Climb (one-way to summit)
- 5.5 Miles Devil's Shingle Roundtripper (out-and-back)
The course follows a path alongside the Cog Railway tracks from the base station to the summit of Mount Washington. The surface begins as dirt and gravel, then becomes steeper approaching Jacobs Ladder, which reaches about a 37% grade. Above Jacobs Ladder the route crosses large boulder fields in the Presidential Range before finishing on the summit alongside the Cog.
Weather on the mountain can change quickly. Temperatures may be in the 70s at the base and snowing at the summit, with potentially intense winds. Aid stations are located near Waumbek (about 0.9 miles) and at the summit checkpoint. Drop bag arrangements differ by course option; runners should check the event details for their race.
There are no crew or pacers allowed on the course. Spectators may purchase Cog Railway tickets to ride and view the course from the trains. The organizer does not require mandatory gear but recommends carrying at least 1 liter of fluids, about 200 calories, a windbreaker or rain shell, and an emergency foil blanket. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
