History of the Climb
In 2007, Museum Overseer Michael G. Thonis created the Washburn Climb as a unique fundraiser for the Museum of Science. Mike asked family and friends to support him in a personal challenge to climb Mount Washington -- the highest peak in the Northeast -- twice in one day. Although there are other sponsored climbs of this mountain, the Museum of Science is the only organization to arrange a double climb.
Thonis chose this particular mountain because of its close connection with the Museum's late founding director, Bradford Washburn. Remembered for his achievements as a cartographer, mountaineer, photographer, and pilot, as well as visionary Museum leader, Washburn created a map of Mount Washington that is still used by climbers today.
In 2008, a team of five climbers valiantly braved very poor weather conditions to make their double climbs. Their outstanding athletic skills came through, raising donations for the Museum in the process. In 2009, single- and one-and-a-half-climb options allowed less experienced hikers participate in this exhausting but exhilarating endeavor.
Previous climbs: