On Saturday, August 15, 2026, I will bike up Mount Washington, a 7.6 mile all-uphill race to the summit of the highest peak in the northeastern United States. What I am about to undertake, many consider the steepest cycling race in the world.  VeloNews dubbed the event a Ride of a Lifetime. The Mt. Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb is the largest annual fundraiser for Tin Mountain Conservation Center.

Mt. Washington is also home to the worst weather ever recorded on earth. The highest non-tornadic wind speed ever recorded on earth was at the summit of Mount Washington at 231mph. Hurricane force winds are present 100 days a year on average. This is part of what makes Mount Washington the toughest bicycle climb in the world. 

Please help me support a great environmental organization, Tin Mountain Conservation Center (TMCC), which has provided environmental education to over 75,000 students, campers, and individuals throughout schools and communities in Northern New Hampshire and western Maine for over 34 years. For sample of some of the work TMCC does with students, link to TMCC YouTube Channel.  

I signed up not only to support the incredible work TMCC does, but because I needed a catalyst to do something hard again. Less than 2 years ago, I was hit by a car while riding my bike. Thankfully, it was not more serious than it was, but the experience left me feeling stuck for a long time. This climb feels like a way to reconnect with myself and remember what both my body and mind are capable of.

Recently, I read a quote by E.E. Cummings that really stayed with me:
“Once we believe in ourselves, we can risk curiosity, wonder, spontaneous delight, or any experience that reveals the human spirit.” That quote captures a lot of what this challenge means to me.

I’ve also been incredibly fortunate to be inspired and supported by my cycling coach, Tom Danielson, and by the amazing Cinch community that he and Kourtney have created. Their encouragement has helped me believe that growth often comes from choosing the difficult things.

If you’re able to donate, thank you for supporting both this meaningful organization and my journey to the summit. And even if you simply took the time to read this page, thank you — your encouragement truly means a lot to me

Tin Mountain Conservation Center (TMCC) & the Iconic Mt. Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb - A Perfect Match!

In the early 1990's, TMCC was approached by the Mt. Washington Auto Road to organize the Bicycle Hillclimb race.  Two missions matched perfectly!  The Auto Road gives visitors from around the globe the opportunity to experience being above tree line and educates them about the natural and cultural history and traditions of the mountain.  TMCC promotes an appreciation and understanding of the natural environment to all ages.  For more than 25 years, TMCC and the Auto Road have worked together to give cyclists the opportunity to experience the full forces and beauty of nature on the only day the road is open only to bicycles.

Why Donate to Tin Mountain?

The MWARBH is TMCC's largest annual fundraising event and provides support for our many programs. With the help of event proceeds, Tin Mountain provides environmental education programs to thousands of students, operates summer camps, leads year-round community-wide nature programs and conducts conservation research projects. Tin Mountain, located in the heart of the White Mountains of New Hampshire, and has been educating residents and visitors on the natural world for over 40 years.  Beyond New Hampshire, their programs speak to anyone of any age who values education and the environment. 

Tin Mountain Conservation Center is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations to this campaign may be tax deductible.  Check with your tax professional.

TMCC - Planting Seeds to Enhance and Expand Programs and Trails

Tin Mountain is currently expanding our offerings to include an accessible nature trail for those with limited mobility, as well as increasing weekend programming for the locals and visitors to the center. Future plans include creating a natural playground designed to help children develop confidence, balance, and  creativity, all while exploring the natural world. Event revenue and fundraising helps support and increase the type and number of diverse programs we provide to the public.  

• Madison Avenue Salons donated $100.00 June 30, 2026 ... "You got this👏"
• Jean donated $50.00 June 30, 2026 ... "I think you are amazing, brave, and crazy all at the same time!"
• Kimberly Inglis donated $25.00 July 1, 2026 ... "Happy to support you, Megan!"