NORTH AND SOUTH HANCOCKS HIKE

Hot, hazy and humid summer day! Perfect! Four of us bagged a couple four thousand footers: North Hancock [4420’] and South Hancock [4319’]. The hike was 9.8 miles roundtrip with 2700 feet elevation gain.

The hike starts gently crossing North Fork brook numerous times until reaching Hancock Loop trail where we started to climb moderately. At the loop junction we climbed both peaks clockwise and it was steep with loose rocks! We were rewarded with good views from ledges off North Hancock and South Hancock.  

Near the summit of South Hancock, we enjoyed feeding the Gray Jays. We enjoyed the pace, stops to take in the views and talk amongst ourselves on a range of topics.  What a day!

Join us for a challenging 9.8 mile hike to the Hancocks with a 2700 ft elevation gain and two 4,000 footers!  This mini loop hike includes everything! Water crossings, steep elevation gain and a hairy, steep descent from South Hancock. The hike in and out are through beautiful forest and the trek between Hancock and South Hancock also provides some unique forested views.

The Hancocks, located in the geographical center of the White Mountains, are usually only ascended by those hikers bound for the 4000-footers. Inexperienced hikers will likely not find the rough trip to these two peaks worthwhile, but devoted mountain-lovers can derive much joy from the scenic brook walks and fine views! We’ll ascend the north branch of the loop up the steep Arrow Slide to reach summit of North Hancock and wonderful views from a near summit ledge. We’ll then hike 1.3 miles on the ridge to reach the summit of South Hancock with a view off a summit ledge and then descend very steeply back to the start of the Hancock Loop.

Don't forget to bring wind/rain shell, water, lunch, snacks, bug repellent, sunscreen, etc. along with whatever you typically have for a hiking excursion. We’ll have lunch on top of the summit. 

Social Mixer: Following the hike, everyone is welcome back at our house in Waterville Valley to hang out for a couple hours alongside the Mad River for swimming/sunbathing, socialize around the deck and enjoy a BBQ! It's BYOB and it costs $10 per person. Bring your swim trunks/towel. We have to cross the shallow Mad River to reach our sandy beach so bring sandals or old sneakers; FLIP FLOPS WILL NOT WORK TO CROSS THE RIVER! 

Lodging Option: Bunk beds are available at our house near Waterville Valley, NH for Friday and Saturday night. Its $25 dollars Friday night and $35 Saturday that includes BBQ. Coffee/bagels each morning and linen/blankets/towels are provided. We have 4 bunks available so the first 4 guys that contact us to reserve will get one; and let us know which night[s] you’ll be lodging with us. You’re on your own for dinner Friday night but you’re welcome to use our kitchen facilities to cook!