25 Years of Reaching New Heights

Seek the Peak – July 18-19, 2025

For 25 years, Seek the Peak has united adventurers of all experience levels, outdoor enthusiasts, and supporters of Mount Washington Observatory in a shared mission: to advance understanding of the natural systems that create Earth’s weather and climate.

What is Seek the Peak?

It’s more than just a hike—it’s a Hike-a-Thon! Seek the Peak is the Mount Washington Observatory’s largest fundraiser, directly supporting our forecasting, research, and educational programs. Whether you're summiting Mount Washington, walking a local nature path, or conquering a personal milestone, your adventure makes a difference. Every step you take helps us advance weather science and provide critical insights into extreme conditions. Learn more about the Observatory. >>

When, Where and How?

When: Hike anytime leading up to Saturday, July 19

Where: Any trail, any peak—your challenge, your choice!

How: Early Bird Special: Register now >> for just $25!

For a limited time, registration is 50% off—only $25! But hurry, this special pricing ends on April 12th, the anniversary of Big Wind Day, when Mount Washington Observatory recorded a world-record 231 mph wind gust in 1934. You can celebrate Big Wind Day with us at Tuckerman Brewing Company in Conway, NH! Join us on April 12th from 3–6 PM for live music, weather trivia, and more. Click to learn more >>

Celebrate at the Après Hike Expo!

Join us on Saturday, July 19, from 4:00-7:00 PM at Great Glen Trails!

After your hike, gather with fellow participants and Mount Washington Observatory supporters for an evening of fun, food, and festivities:

  • BBQ Feast (chicken, pork & vegan option)
  • Beer Garden 
  • Live Music 
  • Rock-Climbing Wall 
  • Epic Gear Raffle 

Compete: Take Your Hike to the Next Level!

Want to add a little friendly competition to your adventure? Choose one of our competition categories for a chance to win incredible prizes and experiences! See prizes >>

Business Team Competition

Rally your workplace to hike and fundraise! Compete for a private overnight educational trip to Mount Washington Observatory, plus other exclusive perks for your company.

Student & Family Competition

Families and young adventurers can compete for a summit meet-and-greet day trip with our favorite feline, Nimbus! Plus, if you're 15 or younger, your registration fee is waived—so you and your family can hit the trails together!

Looking to Find Hiking Friends for Seek the Peak?

We are continuing our Hike and Make Friends program this year! Simply opt in on your registration form, and we'll follow up to help connect you with fellow hikers and confirm your hiking pace at that time. You can also reach out to other participants by posting in our Seek the Peak Facebook group, which is also another great way to connect with other Observatory supporters looking for hiking friends too.

 

Don’t miss this chance to celebrate 25 years of Seek the Peak with an unforgettable community event!

Take the First Step – Join Us Today >> 

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Recent Activity

Not interested in hiking? Come for the party on July 19th from 4-7pm!

The public is welcome to the Après Hike Expo at Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center: Enjoy live music, a climbing wall, food and beverages, and booths with your favorite outdoor brands. Choose “Non-Hiker Expo Ticket” and "Non-Hiker Meal Ticket" at the registration link here >>

2025 Seek the Peak Stewards - TBA

Our new 2025 Seek the Peak Stewards will be announced soon!

Be Close to the Action

Stay at AMC's Joe Dodge Lodge at Pinkham Notch Visitor Center on Seek the Peak weekend so you won't miss a minute of Seek the Peak fun! Located at the base of the Tuckerman Ravine Trail, MWOBS staff will be onsite from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Saturday July 20 to greet hikers who select this popular route up Mount Washington as their Seek the Peak hike of choice!

Purchase a trail lunch for pickup at the Pinkham Notch Visitor Center Cafe by calling 603-466-2727. These lunches are made fresh daily by our friends at the Appalachian Mountain Club.

Hiker Shuttle Services

The Mt. Washington Auto Road offers a one-way shuttle service to hikers who want a ride down from or up to the summit of Mount Washington. They will have extra shuttles ready for Seek the Peak hikers on Saturday, July 20 for those who want a ride. Cost is $55 per passenger and may be purchased from the Auto Road on a first come, first served basis on the day of the event at either the Summit Stage Office atop the mountain, or the Stage Office in the base lodge of Mt. Washington Auto Road (for those wanting a ride to the summit).  

Preferred Lodging Partner

If you are looking for somewhere wonderful to stay for Seek the Peak weekend, we recommend our partners at RiverWood Inn. You will not find better food in the valley and you are sure to fall in love with their historic inn.

Preferred Lodging Partner

Fairfield Inn at Marriott

Fairfield Inn & Suites North Conway is the perfect base for your summer hiking adventure in the White Mountains. With easy access to trails and special pricing for Seek the Peak participants, you can explore by day and relax in comfort with a complimentary breakfast, indoor pool, hot tub, EV charging and even pickleball. Special pricing is available for Seek the Peak until June 2, 2025.

Mount Washington Observatory's Mission

Mount Washington Observatory is a private, nonprofit, member-supported institution with a mission to advance understanding of the natural systems that create Earth’s weather and climate. It serves this mission by maintaining a weather station on the summit of Mount Washington, performing weather and climate research, conducting innovative science education programs, and interpreting the heritage of the Mount Washington region.