Mt. Chocorua Loop Hike

Mo, Fred, Kevin and I met up before 8am at the Piper Trailhead parking lot behind the Davis Campground. Ricardo unfortunately had to cancel before dawn due to water damage problems at his apartment, Carl didn’t show which was concerning since he’s always a bit early. I figured there was some traffic issue (correctly) and left a note on my windshield (which he didn’t see) when we started out at 8:20. 

It was a perfect hiking day (no bugs), relaxed and comfortable and yet we still kept a good moderate pace. Enough to allow the guys to pick wild blueberries from all the bushes along the trails. The plan was to take the Nickerson/Carter Ledge trail (whereas Mo and Fred were just going to take Piper all the way - Fred is not a fan of Carter Ledge like many folks) but when we got to the cutoff I suggested we just stick together and Kevin agreed so we just continued up to the Middle Sister trail. It makes a less strenuous hike and less views but the company was well worth it!  From there we backtracked to the Middle Sister summit, I assumed if Carl arrived late he would catch up with us there and sure enough while we having a snack and chatting up two friendly young ladies Carl arrived a bit breathless and sweaty as he really powered his way to compensate for a late start (8:50).

After hanging at the ruins of the old fire tower for a bit we headed off to Chocorua’s summit where we had lunch and witnessed a super sweet engagement proposal. Although truth be told I was bit more focused on his super hunky best friend and their dog bruski.

The summit views were great, and sun was in and out so we were super comfortable all day. After a bit we started our descent down via the Liberty/Hammond/Weetamoo trails but of course stopped for a quick visit at the Jim Liberty cabin to ponder the hikers and hiking experience of over a century ago.  We got back to the trailhead lot (which was surprisingly not full) at 3:25. Fred and Mo had to head off to pick up their fur babies at the kennel, while Kevin, Carl and I headed of to Marc Ohlson’s home in Conway for a refreshing dip in his pond and bbq. Thank you Marc for being such a gracious host! It really was a perfect NH summer day. 

Join me for this 9.3 mile loop hike, which will encompass the teep Carter Ledges, the Three Sisters and the summit of Mount Chocorua. While not a 4000-footer, Mount Chocorua has the feel of one.  It is very rugged and has excellent 360-degree views of the surrounding lakes, mountains, and forests.  Mount Chocorua's distinctive, bare summit can be seen from almost every direction and can be identified from many points throughout central New Hampshire and western Maine. The hike will ascend via the Piper and Carter Ledge Trails to the Carter Ledge and the Three Sisters (subpeaks).  After ascending the summit, we'll return by way of the Liberty, Hammond, Weetsmoo Trails back down to the Piper Trail.  There are lots of spectacular views along this route! 

NOTE:   If you are uncomfortable with heights and a steep drop-off, this might not be the best hike for you. Appropriate hiking boots with good traction are a must! 

Total Distance and Elevation Gain:  9.3 miles with approximately 2800 feet in cumulative elevation gain. 

Total Time:  6-7.5 hours depending on breaks and group's speed. 

Rain or harsh weather may postpone to another date or cancel, as appropriate. 

What to Bring:  Typical summer hiking gear should be appropriate:  convertible hiking pants, good sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, bug spray, a windbreaker/raingear and extra layers. Also bring along lunch, snacks and plenty of water (at least 2-L).

Carpooling:  Contact other participants or the trip leader to arrange for a rideshare to the trailhead. 

Afterwards:  If there is sufficient interest, we will have drinks and/or dinner in the area.