Seek the Peak – July 18, 2026

For 26 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.

Register TODAY for the Early Bird Special (it's half off!), click here>>

What is Seek the Peak?

It’s more than just a hike—it’s a Hike-a-Thon! Seek the Peak is 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 and Where?

When: Hike anytime leading up to Saturday, July 18

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

NEW this year: Not feeling up to a big climb but want a 4,000-foot elevation view? On the day of the event, participants will have the option to take the Wildcat Express chairlift to the summit of Wildcat Mountain and hike down (event day only). More details coming soon on this new way to take part in Seek the Peak.

What Do You Get When You Register?

NEW: Every Seek the Peak 2026 participant receives:

  • Official Seek the Peak 2026 T-shirt
  • Co-branded Minus33/Seek the Peak merino socks
  • One (1) Ticket to the Après Hike Celebration
  • One (1) Wildcat Express chairlift ride (event day only)

Earned through fundraising to support the mission:

  • Official Seek the Peak 2026 participant gear (details on prizes coming soon)
  • Eligibility for prizes and raffle entries based on fundraising milestones

Après Hike Celebration (let's party)!

Join us on Saturday, July 18, from 4:00-7:00 PM at Wildcat Mountain!

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

  • BBQ Feast
  • Sponsor Brand Activity Zones
  • Beer Garden with Tuckerman Brewing Company
  • 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 at Pinkham Notch Visitor Center on July 19 (unguided).

 

Don’t miss this chance to celebrate 26 years of Seek the Peak with an unforgettable community event!

Take the First Step – Join Us Today >> 

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Recent Activity

2026 Seek the Peak Stewards

Introducing our 2026 Seek the Peak Stewards! Learn more about them here, and check out their social media pages for hike inspiration, tips, and stories from the trail! 

Preferred Lodging Partners

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.

Book Now

Located just one mile from the vibrant village of North Conway and Cranmore Mountain Ski Resort, Cranmore Mountain Lodge is a classic bed and breakfast nestled in a peaceful mountain scape surrounded by nature. This cozy B&B books up fast, so book today for your Seek the Peak adventure!

Book Now

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.

Book Your Lodging with AMC Today

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 19 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).  

Learn More about Hiker Shuttle

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.