Climbing the Rockpile: The Mt. Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb

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In this episode of the New England Endurance podcast, hosts Art Trapotsis and Eric Schenker sit down with Lisa McCoy, event director of the iconic Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb (MWARBH). Known affectionately as “The Rockpile,” this race challenges cyclists with 7.6 miles of relentless climbing, an average grade of 12%, and the ever-unpredictable weather of Mount Washington.

Lisa shares her story—from her role as co-owner of the International Mountain Climbing School to managing one of the toughest uphill races in the world. The discussion dives into the race’s evolution, the mission of the Tin Mountain Conservation Center, and the enduring spirit of the New England endurance community.

Whether you're a veteran of the climb or considering your first ascent, Lisa offers behind-the-scenes insights, preparation tips, and why so many riders keep coming back year after year.

Key Takeaways:

• The course is brutally steep, with no flat sections and a punishing 22% grade at the summit.
• Lisa McCoy has been directing the event since 2017 and is deeply involved in the outdoor community.
• The Auto Road was fully unpaved until the 1970s; it’s now fully paved, but just as tough.
• Riders must be self-supported—no aid stations and no e-bikes allowed during the race.
• All proceeds benefit the Tin Mountain Conservation Center, a key player in local environmental education.
• The finish line reward? Bragging rights, breathtaking views, and a coveted MWARBH finisher’s blanket.
• The event consistently draws 500–600 riders, showcasing the grit and camaraderie of New England’s endurance athletes.

Art & Eric embark on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.