Quick Answer: How Long To Hike Mount Washington

The fastest time ever recorded for climbing Mount Washington stands at an astonishing 5 minutes and 28.67 seconds. This remarkable achievement was accomplished in 2021 by Travis Pastrana, who was behind the wheel of a Subaru WRX STI. What makes this feat even more impressive is that it shattered Pastrana’s previous record, which was 5 minutes and 44.72 seconds, established in 2017. Before Pastrana’s reign, the record was held by David Higgins from the Isle of Man, also piloting a WRX STI, with a time of 6 minutes and 9.09 seconds, a record set back in 2014. These incredible feats showcase the extraordinary skill and determination of these athletes in conquering Mount Washington’s challenging terrain.

“What are the shortest and most popular routes for ascending Mount Washington? The two primary options for reaching the summit in the shortest distance are the Tuckerman Ravine Trail and the Lion’s Head Trail, both commencing from Pinkham Notch. These trails span approximately 4.2 miles one-way, allowing hikers to cover an elevation gain of roughly 4,300 vertical feet. These routes offer a challenging yet rewarding journey to the summit of Mount Washington, one of the highest peaks in the northeastern United States.”

Mount Washington’s Incredible Wind Speed Record

Back on the memorable afternoon of April 12, 1934, an astonishing meteorological event occurred at the summit of Mount Washington. The Mount Washington Observatory diligently logged a remarkable wind speed of 231 miles per hour (372 km/h). This remarkable achievement secured its place in the record books, maintaining its prestigious status as the world record holder for wind speed from 1934 until 1996. To put this incredible feat into perspective, it’s important to note that Mount Washington’s record-breaking wind speed remains unparalleled when it comes to non-tornado or non-tropical cyclone measurements. In essence, Mount Washington stands as a testament to the earth’s atmospheric extremes, showcasing a unique and unparalleled meteorological phenomenon.