Deep in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont lies Burke Mountain. A somewhat unassuming ski mountain that gets nowhere near the volume of winter travelers as Killington or Stowe.
But I wasn't going there to ski, I was going there in the summer, to ride my bike up to the top. And for what Burke Mountain may lack in terms of ski renown, it makes up for in the form of a brutally steep (and scenic) paved road to the top of the mountain. Perfect for cyclists looking to test themselves against some of the toughest gradients seen in the country.
The "official" Strava segment has the climb at 3.24 miles at 12% average grade with an elevation gain of 2,026 ft. Definitely on the shorter side of the epic climb category, but it really will make you work for each pedal stroke. In reality it does climb for a bit before the official Strava segment starts but it isn't as brutally steep in that lower section
I had 34x36 as my lowest gear and was still grinding at an average cadence of 70 while averaging 270 watts, just to give you an idea how steep it really is.
Some amazing views on the way up and down, as well as at the top. There is a short hike to a fire tower where you can climb up to get amazing 360 degree views of the area as well.
So there you go, do you know any climbs that are tougher than this? Certainly Mount Washington is, but you'll be hard pressed to find another one. But post in the comments below the hardest climb you've done, I'll have to put it on my list!
Oh and one more picture I took of the scenic Lake Willoughby I took on the way back from the mountain!