The Tunnel to Towers Climb in Albany starts at 8:00 AM, giving you a manageable morning window if you're driving in from out of town. This 5K running event takes place on September 20, 2026, at 100 S. Mall Arterial in Albany, New York. Entry costs range from free to $50.00, making it accessible across different budgets. Whether you're basing yourself nearby or commuting for the race, the early start time allows you to plan accommodation accordingly and handle pre-race logistics without rushing. Check parking availability at the venue ahead of time, as downtown locations can fill quickly on race mornings.
From the Race Organizer
What is a Tunnel To Towers Climb? The Tunnel to Towers Climb Series was created to honor the heroic life and death of Stephen Siller, a New York City firefighter (FDNY) who lost his life on September 11, 2001 after strapping on his gear and running through the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel to the Twin Towers. We honor all of those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001 and support our first responders and military who make extraordinary sacrifices in the line of duty! For more information on the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation please visit t 2t.org . How many floors in the Corning Tower? You will be climbing up to the 42nd Floor (Observation Deck)– 2 flights per floor. How many steps are there per flight? The number of steps varies per flight. There are a total of 809 steps! Do I have to climb all the way to the 42nd Floor in order to participate in the T2T Tower Climb? No, there will be bailout floors throughout the climb. How many bailout floors are there? There will be opportunities to end your climb on floors 10, 20 and 31. Water stations will also be available on all floors. Will there be Medical assistance if necessary? There will be medics on the premises in the event of an emergency. Will hallways be included in the climb distance? Yes, there are 2 hallways included on floor 17 and 32 – where the stairway will switch from turning right to left and back to right. What direction does the stairwell wind (to the left or to the right)? The stairwell winds to the right. They will switch which way they wind at floors 17, they will turn left and 32 they will turn right. The width of the stairs is the same throughout the climb. Is there a limit on how many people can register? We are limiting the event to 500 participants – the earlier you register, the more likely you will be able to take part in this unique event and get your size t-shirt! How long does the T2T Tower Climb take? This depends on how many floors you climb, your fitness level, speed and amount of time spent at rest areas. Elite Climbers may finish the 42-story climb in less than 10 minutes, while the average participant should take about 25-40 minutes to finish. Is this a timed climb? Yes, you will be given a chip from the timing company. You will also be given a bib. Please make sure your bib number is visible on the front of you. Can climbers stop on a landing to catch their breath? Yes, but be aware that other participants are behind you, so please try to stay out of their way. Slower climbers should move to the right, allowing faster climbers to pass on the left. I might get tired and be unable to finish, what should I do? No problem, just find a volunteer or staff member who can escort you to the nearest rest area and direct you to an elevator. I’m a first responder; can I wear my bunker/turnout gear, scott packs, etc.? Yes, you may wear turnout gear. In fact, we encourage it! What is an "Elite Climber”? An Elite Climber is a competitive stair climber who routinely participates in stair climb events and can run up the stairs, completing the climb in a very fast time. Most participants are NOT considered Elite Climbers. The average participant will climb at a moderate pace and consider a 42-story climb to be no more strenuous than their typical gym workout. Can I bring my cell phone? Yes, only registered climbers may enter the stairs with cell phones. When can I pick up my registration packet (bib and t-shirt)? Our packet pick up will be on the day of the climb. Sept 20th, 2026 What time should I arrive at Empire State Plaza, Corning Tower Concourse, Albany, NY? The event will begin with an opening ceremony at 8:00am (about ½ hr). Elite Climbers will begin 8:30-8:45 AM. All participants must have their bibs in order to participate in the event. All participants and supporters must enter into the building through the underground concourse. There will be no access at the plaza level for security reasons. How do I get to the Empire State Plaza, Corning Tower Concourse in Albany, NY? The address to use for your GPS is: 5 Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY. Participants should enter into the building through the underground concourse. You can enter the concourse through the doors under the tunnel across the road from the NYS Museum. Is parking available? Free parking is available at the East Garage located at the corners of Madison Avenue, Eagle Street and Philip Street. In addition the New York State Museum across the street offers free parking on the weekends. Is a bag check area provided? Due to strict security regulations, we ask that you please DO NOT bring any bags, backpacks, purses and/or valuables with you to the event. There will be no bag check so please plan accordingly. The Foundation is not responsible for any personal items/valuables. Are electronics, cameras allowed at the T2T Tower Climb? Yes. Cameras and Video are allowed. The foundation is not responsible for any personal items/valuables. Cameras, Go-Pros and Video are
