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Blue Hill Observatory & Science Center, Great Blue Hill, Milton

Climb for Climate

Day51,968

On Saturday, May 15, 2027, observers on Great Blue Hill will record day 51,968 of a weather record unbroken since February 1, 1885. Climb up during Climate Week and be there for it.

When
Saturday, May 15, 2027, during Climate Week
Where
Great Blue Hill, Milton
Time
10 AM to 3 PM, check-in from 9:15 AM

Why climb during Climate Week

Climate change is measured, not guessed. On this summit it has been measured every day for 142 years.

That record is one of the longest anywhere and one of the clearest pictures of how New England’s climate is changing. Climb for Climate brings people to the place it is kept, during the week the world talks about climate.

Meet the people who keep the record, see the instruments, and take in the view from the top of the hill.

February 1, 1885First observation on the summit

142 yearsOf daily records, the longest continuous weather record in the Western Hemisphere

635 feetSummit of Great Blue Hill, the highest point in the Blue Hills

How the day goes

  1. Check in at the base

    At the Blue Hill Ski Area and Trailside Museum lot on Route 138. Check-in opens at 9:15 AM, and you can start your climb any time between 10 AM and 3 PM.

  2. Climb about a mile

    Take the paved Summit Road or the rockier Red Dot Trail. Most people reach the top in 20 to 30 minutes.

  3. Reach the Observatory

    See the instruments that have measured the weather here since 1885, and meet the observers who read them.

  4. Stay for Climate Week

    Activities on weather and climate for all ages, and on a clear day, the view to Boston.

Where your climb goes

Proceeds bring young people into climate science, especially students who have not had the chance.

  • Field tripsStudents come to the summit and see real science in action.
  • InternshipsHands-on work alongside the observers who keep the record.
  • MentorshipYoung people meet scientists and meteorologists who were once in their place.
  • Career pathwaysRoutes into weather, climate, and environmental careers.

Questions

What should I wear?

Comfortable walking or hiking shoes and layers. The summit is often cooler and windier than the parking lot. Bring a water bottle.

When and where do I check in?

At the Blue Hill Ski Area and Trailside Museum lot on Route 138 in Milton. Check-in opens at 9:15 AM and stays open through the day. Climb any time between 10 AM and 3 PM.

What if it rains?

The climb happens rain or shine. If severe weather is coming, registered climbers will get an email with any changes ahead of time.

Is it accessible?

The routes are steep, outdoor terrain. If you need accommodations or vehicle access to the summit, email events@bluehill.org before the event.

Can I fundraise?

Yes. When registration opens, you can set a personal goal, share your page, and start or join a team.

How do I get updates?

Email events@bluehill.org and we will let you know when registration opens.

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