Confirmed race-day details
A 7.6-mile race from the base to the summit
The official spectator schedule lists the fan zone from 6 AM to 5 PM Sunday. Spectator shuttles and finish-line access begin at 6:30 AM, the Auto Road closes to upbound traffic at 8 AM, the first timed run begins at 9:30 AM, and the second begins at 1:30 PM. Times can change, so organizer instructions take priority.
- Race day
- Sunday, August 9, 2026
- Fan zone
- 6 AM–5 PM EDT
- Timed runs
- 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM EDT
- Weather range
- Auto Road base to near the 6,288-foot summit
Live official NWS planning
Best time to go out at the Mt. Washington Hillclimb
Comparing Sunday race-day hours at the Auto Road base with the newest official National Weather Service forecast near the summit. The planner uses the colder, wetter or windier value when the two elevations differ.
This identifies a better weather window for spectator planning, not a promise that mountain conditions are safe or that racing, shuttles or summit access will proceed. Conditions vary sharply with elevation. Follow event officials, NWS warnings, law enforcement and emergency instructions.
Noncommercial mountain-weather preparation
What to check before leaving
Two elevations, different weather
Compare the base and summit forecasts. Temperatures, wind, fog and visibility can change sharply along the course.
Warm layers and rain protection
The organizer tells mountain spectators to dress in layers and bring warm clothing. Keep weather protection available; no purchase is required.
Course and shuttle decisions
Event officials control racing, shuttle movement and summit access. Follow their instructions immediately if conditions or the schedule change.
Race dates, schedule and spectator instructions come from the Mt. Washington Auto Road. Forecasts and alerts come from the National Weather Service Gray/Portland. Current summit observations come from the Mount Washington Observatory. MyUSA.us is independent and 100% ad-free.