2008 Climb

Anyone who has visited Mount Washington and experienced its terrain and weather conditions can understand the significance of the double climb. In 2007, Museum Overseer Michael Thonis proved that a double climb of Mount Washington could be done, but could others also manage this incredible feat?

In 2008, four intrepid volunteers joined Michael for the double climb: Matt Fates, Innovator and vice chair of the Museum's Young Leadership Committee; Roxanne Lashley, triathlete, hiker, Kilimanjaro climber, and Museum staff member; Rich Kohan, a friend of Michael's and an avid runner; and Matt Bird, an extraordinary athlete and the Museum intern organizing the 2008 event.

The weather conditions in 2008 were very different from the previous year. During all 13 hours of their hike, the double climbers encountered challenging conditions, from 70-degree sunshine at the base to 50 MPH winds at the summit, along with rain, hail, and fog. However, their spirits remained high, and their extreme efforts raised over $50,000 for the Museum's Annual Fund.

With Brad Washburn's legacy still very much a part of the Museum of Science and his map of the mountain still in use by most hikers, it seemed fitting to tie the Museum to the mountain in honor of Brad, and the climb was formally named the "Washburn Climb."

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