What is the fundraising goal?

Each team is encouraged to raise $6,288 — one dollar for every vertical foot of Mt. Washington — in support of Adaptive Sports Partners.

Who is part of a Sunrise Ascent team?
Each Sunrise Ascent team includes an Athlete with a disability, Crew members who provide physical and emotional support during the climb, a Roadrunner who drives the team back down the mountain, and optional roles like Trailside Tenders and Base Camp Support who cheer from below and help in non-hiking ways.

Together, every team member contributes to the shared goal of raising funds to support year-round adaptive sports and recreation. Whether you’re hiking, driving, or supporting from the sidelines — you’re part of something powerful. This event is about community, inclusion, and showing up for a cause that changes lives.

Do I have to fundraise?
Yes, but it’s a team effort — you’re not doing this alone! If your team has 20 people, that’s just about $314 per person. Together, you’ll reach the summit physically and financially.

How do I get started with fundraising?
Once you register, you’ll get a personal and/or team fundraising page, plus email templates, social media graphics, and support from the Adaptive team to help you share your story.

Where does the money go?
All funds raised support year-round adaptive sports and recreation programs that empower people with disabilities — regardless of financial ability.

Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes! Adaptive Sports Partners is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so all donations are fully tax-deductible.

What if our team doesn’t meet the $6,288 goal?
No stress — the goal is to try! We encourage every team to put in their best effort, and we’ll be here to cheer you on with tools, ideas, and motivation.

Why is sharing my story important for fundraising?
People give to people — not just causes. When you share why you’re involved in the Sunrise Ascent and what Adaptive Sports Partners means to you, you invite others to be part of something personal and powerful. Your story is what inspires donations and raises awareness for inclusion and adaptive sports.

What kind of story should I tell?
You don’t need a dramatic backstory — just speak from the heart. You can share:

• Why you’re participating in the Sunrise Ascent
• What it means to support someone with a disability
• How sports or nature have shaped your life
• A message from or about your athlete

How should I tell my story?
Keep it short and authentic! A few tips:

• Post a photo with a caption on social media
• Write a few sentences to include with your fundraising link
• Record a short video to share your “why”

Who qualifies as an athlete?
Any individual with a disability who is eager to take on the Mt. Washington ascent, with or without the help of adaptive equipment and a support team.

Will I be hiking or using equipment?
Both are possible! Some athletes hike, others use adaptive equipment such as off-road chairs. We’ll work with you to make the journey safe, fun, and successful.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
If you have equipment you love and are comfortable using — bring it! But if you need adaptive gear, we’ve got you covered. Adaptive Sports Partners has a wide range of equipment and will work with you to find what fits your needs best.

Can I choose my team?
If you have preferred crew, let us know. Otherwise, we’ll help build a team that’s a great match for your goals and support needs.

What if I’m not sure how to prepare?
We’ll support you leading up to the event with planning, communication, and guidance. You won’t be doing this alone!

How far is the hike, and how steep is it?

The route follows the Mt. Washington Auto Road — a 7.6-mile paved road with over 4,600 feet of elevation gain. While it’s not a trail hike, it’s a steady uphill walk and can be physically demanding. The views, the sunrise, and the sense of accomplishment are more than worth it!

What does a crew member do?
Crew members are essential to each athlete’s success. They assist physically (pushing/pulling), offer emotional support, help with team fundraising, and share in the joy of summiting Mt. Washington together.

Do I need to know an athlete or other crew members to sign up?
Not at all! Many crew members join teams without knowing anyone beforehand. All athlete teams need support. You’re welcome to read about the athletes and choose someone you’d like to support — or connect with Judy, and she’ll help match you with a team that fits your strengths and interests.

What’s the time commitment?
Be prepared for an early start — some crews begin as early as 2:00 a.m. Most teams reach the summit in 5–7 hours, followed by a ride down in a Roadrunner’s vehicle and a celebration at the base area.

Do I need hiking experience?
No technical experience is required, but you should feel comfortable walking several miles uphill on a paved road and assisting with pushing or pulling adaptive equipment if needed.

The route follows the Mt. Washington Auto Road — a 7.6-mile paved road with over 4,600 feet of elevation gain. While it’s not a trail hike, it’s a steady uphill walk and can be physically demanding. The views, the sunrise, and the sense of accomplishment are more than worth it!

Do I have to fundraise?
Yes — all crew members are part of a team fundraising effort. We’ll give you tools, support, and ideas to make it easy and meaningful

What is a Team Captain?
A Team Captain is a Crew member who helps bring the team together — creating camaraderie, building excitement, and keeping everyone informed. They help organize the team’s peer-to-peer fundraising page, encourage participation, and support communication between team members and Adaptive staff.

You don’t need to be an expert — just someone who’s excited to rally the team, keep things moving, and make the Sunrise Ascent a memorable and meaningful experience for everyone involved.

Where can I stay for the Sunrise Ascent?
You’ve got options! Participants can enjoy a special opportunity to camp at the base of Mt. Washington in a beautiful open field, perfect for tents or small campers. Porta-potties are available, and we follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the area. It’s an  unforgettable experience.

If camping’s not your thing, check out nearby hotels, inns, and other lodging options at mt-washington.com/lodging. 

What is a Roadrunner?
A Roadrunner is a volunteer who drives a vehicle up the Mt. Washington Auto Road on event day and shuttles an athlete and crew back down after they summit.

What’s required to be a Roadrunner?
You must have a reliable vehicle, be comfortable driving up and down steep mountain roads, and be excited to support the Sunrise Ascent.

Do I have to pay to drive the Auto Road?
Nope — Roadrunners get to drive the Auto Road for free and enjoy the amazing views from the top!

Can I drive any vehicle up the Auto Road?

Not all vehicles are permitted on the Auto Road. Please review the Mt. Washington Auto Road vehicle restrictions to make sure your car qualifies. If you’re unsure, reach out — we’re happy to help!

Will I hike at all?
No hiking required. You’ll coordinate with event staff to meet your assigned team at the summit for the drive down.