The Pennsylvania Hillclimb Association: Over 60 Years of Uphill Racing

Founded in 1959 and incorporated in 1963, the Pennsylvania Hillclimb Association (PHA) was established to standardize rules across the region’s many historic hillclimb events. Today, the PHA comprises seven SCCA Regions—Susquehanna, Philadelphia, NEPA, Blue Mountain, South Jersey, Steel Cities, and the WDCR Western Maryland Chapter—alongside the Weatherly and Giants Despair Hillclimb Associations. Together,  they organize premier hillclimb and track events throughout the Northeast.

A Legacy of Speed

Hillclimbing is one of the world’s oldest forms of motorsport, born from early manufacturers testing vehicles on the most grueling terrain imaginable. While races like Pikes Peak and “The Climb to the Clouds” are global icons, Pennsylvania maintains its own world-renowned tradition. Since 1959, courses have evolved and drivers have changed, but the thrill remains. We remain a community of enthusiasts eager to test our skills on the winding uphill roads of the Northeast.

From the Street to the Track

Every driving enthusiast has a favorite stretch of road—the one where you know every curve and dip by heart. We’ve all wondered: “How fast could I take that turn?”. While public roads have legal and safety limits, hillclimbs offer a controlled environment to find those answers. Free from oncoming traffic and speed traps, you can finally test the true limits of both driver and machine. 

Join the Community

If you want a sport that blends autocross, rally, and road racing, hillclimbing is for you. Beyond the adrenaline, it is a true test of mechanical preparation and skill. Whether you prefer the technical, gear-grinding twists of a short hill or the high-speed braking of a long course, there is a hill waiting for you. Our community is famously supportive and welcomes beginners with open arms.